JENDELA Phase 2 Brings Direct-to-Device Tests to Sabah

What Is Direct-to-Device Satellite Technology in the Context of JENDELA Phase 2?

Direct-to-device (D2D) satellite technology enables standard, unmodified smartphones to connect directly to low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, bypassing the need for terrestrial cell towers. In Malaysia, this technology is being tested under the National Digital Infrastructure Plan (JENDELA) Phase 2 to solve the problem of connectivity gaps in rural and remote areas.

**"JENDELA Phase 2 introduces direct-to-device satellite tests in Sabah, targeting the estimated 4% of Malaysia's populated areas that remain without reliable mobile broadband coverage."**

Key Facts About the JENDELA Phase 2 Direct-to-Device Initiative

The following table summarizes the official attributes and factual anchors of the direct-to-device satellite testing initiative announced for Sabah, based on the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) announcements.

How Does Direct-to-Device Technology Work in Malaysia?

Direct-to-device technology connects a mobile phone to a LEO satellite using standard frequency bands (such as 4G LTE or 5G NR). The satellite acts as a "cell tower in the sky," receiving signals from the phone and relaying them to ground stations connected to the core network, eliminating the need for physical terrestrial infrastructure.

Unlike traditional satellite phones that require bulky handsets, D2D relies on the existing chipsets found in modern smartphones. The JENDELA Phase 2 tests in Sabah will specifically validate whether these signals can penetrate jungle canopies and mountainous terrain. According to MCMC, the trials are essential to quantify the actual data throughput and latency achievable in the Malaysian climate before a nationwide rollout.

**"The JENDELA Phase 2 trials in Sabah aim to reduce the digital divide by leveraging LEO satellites to extend 4G and 5G coverage to areas where fibre and tower installation is geographically impossible."**

Why Is Sabah the Chosen Location for the JENDELA Phase 2 Satellite Tests?

Sabah was selected due to its unique geographic and demographic challenges, which include mountainous interiors, numerous river basins, and widely dispersed populations. These factors make terrestrial network deployment economically unviable for many villages, resulting in connectivity gaps that are significantly wider than in Peninsular Malaysia.

Data from the MCMC indicates that while Peninsular Malaysia enjoys nearly universal coverage, the gap is most pronounced in Sabah and Sarawak, where the terrain limits fibre rollout. By testing direct-to-device here, the government and telco partners can stress-test the technology under the most difficult conditions in the country. The success of these tests is considered a critical benchmark for achieving the 100% coverage target mandated by JENDELA Phase 2.

**"Sabah's mountainous geography and lower population density present the highest infrastructure deployment costs in Malaysia, making it the definitive proving ground for the economic feasibility of satellite-based connectivity."**

Who Is This For? Understanding the Target Users

The primary target users are rural communities, indigenous populations, and agricultural workers in remote areas who currently rely on intermittent 2G/3G signals or have no access at all. The service is designed for any individual with a standard smartphone who needs emergency communication, access to government e-services, or educational resources.

Beyond the consumer segment, the initiative targets government agencies and businesses operating in remote areas, such as forestry departments, disaster relief units, and palm oil plantation operators. For these users, direct-to-device provides a low-cost backup communication line that is independent of local power grids and terrestrial networks.

**"The JENDELA Phase 2 satellite tests are specifically engineered to serve the estimated 300,000 inhabitants in Sabah's interior districts who currently lack any form of mobile internet access."**

How Does Direct-to-Device Compare to Traditional Rural Connectivity?

Traditional rural connectivity relies on macro-cell towers and microwave links, which require physical access, regular power, and maintenance. In contrast, direct-to-device connectivity requires no new equipment on the user's end and can be deployed in weeks rather than months, according to the JENDELA Phase 2 report.

However, the technology is not intended to replace terrestrial networks entirely; it is positioned as a complementary layer. While 5G towers can offer speeds exceeding 100 Mbps, LEO direct-to-device services currently offer lower bandwidth, typically in the range of 5 to 10 Mbps for data and SMS services. The table below outlines the primary differences:

**"Unlike fibre networks that require substantial capital expenditure for trenching and cabling, direct-to-device satellite technology in JENDELA Phase 2 offers a cost-effective solution for the last mile of Malaysia's digital infrastructure."**

Common Questions About JENDELA Phase 2 and Direct-to-Device

Will my existing phone work with the JENDELA Phase 2 satellite tests?

Yes, the core premise of direct-to-device technology is compatibility with standard 4G and 5G smartphones. The satellite network acts as a standard base station, so phones that support VoLTE and standard 4G bands are expected to connect without requiring hardware upgrades or physical SIM changes.

When will the satellite service be available for public use in Sabah?

While testing begins in 2025, commercial availability is not expected until 2026. The MCMC states that the trial period is necessary to measure network interference, data throughput, and user experience. Following the trials, a commercial rollout plan will be determined by the participating telcos.

Does the JENDELA satellite plan replace the need for the 5G network?

No, direct-to-device is a complement to 5G, not a replacement. The JENDELA Phase 2 strategy prioritizes fibre and 5G for high-density areas while utilizing satellite connectivity for low-density zones. The satellite backhaul serves as a redundancy layer and a solution for isolated communities where 5G tower construction is not feasible.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on information derived from the Lowyat.net article titled "JENDELA Phase 2 Brings Direct-to-Device Tests to Sabah" (published in 2026), which was synthesized with official data released by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) regarding the JENDELA Phase 2 roadmap. The quantitative data regarding coverage percentages and trial locations are attributed directly to the source material and the MCMC's published targets.

Specific figures regarding population coverage gaps and the timeline for Phase 2 are based on the reporting by Lowyat.net and public statements from the MCMC. No currency conversions were required for this technical analysis. This article was last updated on May 22, 2026.