Internet access and mobile coverage are crucial in rural areas as they provide vital information, education resources, and online services, bridging the digital divide. They enhance communication, connectivity, and economic growth, facilitating e-commerce, entrepreneurship, and remote work. Reliable coverage enables effective emergency services, ensuring public safety. This is why it’s important for people living in Sarawak to have proper access to the internet and receive good mobile coverage.
According to a news article by Malay Mail, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil has instructed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to engage with telecommunications companies regarding the non-functional telecommunication towers in Sarawak caused by the absence of satellite dishes.
He stated that his ministry will issue the instruction to MCMC within the next two weeks to address the issue, which he referred to as “dish-less towers.” Fahmi highlighted that he personally visited Sarawak to seek a solution, emphasising the importance of satellite dishes for quality internet service.
Additionally, he aimed to resolve the problem of dropped calls in areas with weak reception and intended to explore solutions to ensure uninterrupted connectivity in buildings.
Fahmi also suggested an alternative solution to address the internet network access issue in Sarawak by installing antennas on water towers. He mentioned that this approach could complement the more than 600 telecommunication towers constructed by the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) across the state.
Fahmi further explained that if this option proves successful in Sarawak, it could be implemented in other states facing similar telecommunications challenges. He mentioned that a technical evaluation would be conducted to determine the feasibility of installing telecommunications equipment on water towers or other elevated locations.
He also shared that a total of 125 towers constructed by the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) will become operational before the upcoming Gawai celebration next month. These initiatives aim to bridge the telecommunications gap and improve connectivity in Sarawak.
