News

Home > News > Nation

Published: Sunday January 18, 2009 MYT 7:12:00 PM
Updated: Sunday January 18, 2009 MYT 7:56:32 PM

WiFi vital in attracting tourists: Guan Eng

By TAN SIN CHOW and WINNIE YEOH

GEORGE TOWN: Statewide wireless internet connectivity is vital to the state in order to lure foreign tourists here, said Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.

“Many foreign tourists especially the backpackers do not yearn for five-star accommodations. What they prefer is a simple vacation in our lush tropical state with modern-day amenities.

“But the most important thing to them is free wireless Internet connectivity to enable them to stay connected with family and friends back home,” he said at the Chinese New Year celebration organised by Little Penang Street Market in Upper Penang Road on Sunday.

Lim said being a “wireless” state, coupled with the possibility of a low-cost carrier terminal being built here, is sure to attract tourists in droves.

“It has always been the state’s priority to ensure that Penangites get to enjoy free wireless services in two years time, with subscribers enjoying affordable WiMAX service in most parts of the state.”

He added that wireless broadband provider, Packet One Networks (M) Sdn Bhd, will be launching a test drive of its WiMax service at the Gurney Hote on Monday.

Not all happy
Meanwhile, some Tanjung Bungah residents are appealing to the Chief Minister to reconsider his decision to make Penang a wireless state.

Housewife Grace Ang, 51, said she is not against such technology but she is against it blanketing the whole state.

“The technology is good but schools, playgrounds, residential areas and hospitals should be spared as we do not know of its side effects.

“Penangites should be given the choice to decide whether they want it or not,” she said during a forum with other residents at the Tanjung Bungah market, also on Sunday.

Ang said a Tanjung Bungah Anti-Wireless State Committee will soon be formed to to educate the residents about the issue through talks and campaigns.