The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is actively expanding the installation of Starlink satellite devices nationwide to address poor internet access.
Deputy Communications and Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching announced that MCMC has procured 30 high-performance satellite devices, with 10 already in possession, according to Bernama.
Out of these 10 devices, four have been deployed at specific locations: Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Kuala Pilah, Kampung Orang Asli Kemensah in Gombak, Kampung Orang Asli Tonggang in Tambun, Perak, and Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Temon in Johor Bahru.
MCMC is presently identifying additional suitable locations across the country, including Sabah and Sarawak, where improved internet access is needed.
Teo stated, “We will collaborate with the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development to identify the most appropriate locations for device installation. All the details are still being finalised.”
The government’s objective is for these installations to act as a temporary solution for areas lacking or experiencing weak internet access while broader efforts to enhance internet connectivity are ongoing.
Teo also highlighted that the Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Temon area faces interference issues due to its proximity to neighboring Singapore, causing their phone lines to connect to Singaporean frequencies.
She added, “With this facility, it will be able to improve internet access for residents, especially in the educational sector for Orang Asli children.”
Currently, each high-performance Starlink device costs RM11,613 and functions as a Wi-Fi hotspot with a coverage range of approximately 100 meters, depending on the installation location.
