In wake of cabotage reversal criticism, Wee reveals possible Japan cable project

[superadmin]

KUALA LUMPUR – Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT) plans to launch a subsea cable system called the Intra-Asia Cable Express, which could involve Malaysia, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong, who is facing criticism over reversing the country’s cabotage exemption policy.

Wee said the NTT has approached the Malaysian government to bring in the cable project to pass through Sabah and Sarawak.

NTT is currently helming the “Apricot” subsea cable project to connect Singapore, Japan, Guam, the Philippines, Taiwan and Indonesia within a consortium that includes internet giants Google and Facebook.

Wee said this proposal should address claims that his ministry is hampering foreign investments and allowing the country to face losses.

The MCA president made the announcement over the country’s cabotage policy on foreign ships while wrapping up his debate with DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, which was broadcast on TV3’s Bulletin Utama and Astro Awani this evening.

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