AN internal investigation into Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) has found that all of its operations are in order, according to Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo.
The minister explained that following the ministry’s assumption of DNB earlier this year, he had requested the company’s authorities to provide a full explanation of their dealings.
“I ordered a due diligence audit to ensure that good governance was adhered to,” Gobind said when winding up Budget 2025 debates on the Digital Ministry at the committee level yesterday.
“The findings showed that both the administrative and financial aspects of DNB were all in order, with no issues identified.”
He emphasised that any irregularities brought to his attention would be addressed with appropriate action.
Regarding the RM16.5bil allocated to DNB, Gobind clarified that the funds were spread over a 10-year period and did not entirely consist of government funding.
He explained that government funds were only involved in a RM500mil equity injection in 2021 and a shareholder loan of RM450mil from Minister of Finance Inc in May 2023.
“As of 2024, DNB has spent RM5bil on the development and maintenance of its 5G network,” he added.
Gobind also said telcos will eventually take over and repay government funds and bank loans as part of the transition to a dual-network 5G model.
“In other words, the government will still be paid by the telcos, clearly showing that no losses will be incurred,” he said.
Gobind also said DNB had awarded 41 projects worth RM51.8mil this year through a transparent tender process.
On Wednesday, Hassan Abdul Karim (PH-Pasir Gudang) asked about claims that the previous Perikatan Nasional administration, led by then prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, allocated RM16.5bil of taxpayer money for the initial 5G rollout via DNB.
Hassan also enquired about how much of the total amount had been spent so far and whether it had been audited by the Auditor-General.
