Trial in Johor and S’wak underway to address Internet issues, says Fahmi
PONTIAN: The Communications Ministry has expressed optimism on a new technology being trialled in Johor and Sarawak to address Internet connectivity issues in remote areas, says its minister.
Fahmi Fadzil said the ministry is testing a range of new technologies to ensure the smooth implementation of phase two of the National Digital Network Plan (Jendela) project, particularly in rural and remote areas.
“This technology shows promise, offering connectivity within a 2-3km radius. It could become part of our solutions for Jendela phase two, especially in areas where fibre installation is not practical.
“The trial, which began in October, has provided valuable insights into the technology’s performance under various weather conditions, including the ongoing monsoon season,” he said yesterday.
Fahmi was speaking to reporters after a working visit to Kampung Seri Bunian to oversee the proof-of-concept trial of the Tarana Wireless telecommunication tower here.He said the first trial for the Tarana Wireless telecommunication tower was conducted in Sarawak in March last year with the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC).
“This is the second tower in Johor. The first one is at Sedenak Tech Park in Kulai. We need at least four towers to give us complete data,” he added.
Site visit: Fahmi (in white) looking at the Tarana Wireless telecommunication tower placed at the roof of Dewan Masyarakat Kampung Seri Bunian in Pontian.
Fahmi also said there is the need for hybrid solutions to address Malaysia’s unique geographical challenges, such as mountains, rivers and islands, which hinder the roll-out of fibre optic cables.
“Technologies like Tarana, alongside free-space optical systems and microwave technology, can complement Wi-Fi distribution in underserved areas.
“This will significantly reduce costs and eliminate the need for extensive cabling,” he said.
On the Jendela project, Fahmi acknowledged delays in phase one, citing technological, land and logistical issues.
“Out of 1,661 towers planned, 1,385 have been built and only 808 are operational. This is not acceptable for a two-year project.
“We are integrating temporary solutions like satellite Internet, including Starlink, to expedite connectivity.
“Temporary solutions like satellite Internet provide immediate relief, especially in areas where fibre optic cable installation will take a long time to complete,” he said, adding that it will take nine months to set up a telecommunications tower and another nine months to install fibre optic cables.
Fahmi said the government’s push for innovative technologies aims to close the gap for the 1.8% of populated areas still lacking Internet access, ensuring that even the most remote communities can benefit from reliable connectivity.
On another matter, Fahmi said that although the sponsors of badminton player Lee Zii Jia had issued an apology for the upside down Malaysian flag on his jersey, the mistake has been described as a “significant error”.
“The jersey was worn by a well-known player representing the nation carrying the Malaysian flag. I see this as critical negligence,” he added.
Fahmi urged the public not to inflame the situation on social media.
“We must remain moderate and let authorities take appropriate action. Comments can be misinterpreted and we do not want a situation where it fuels unnecessary tension,” he said.
Zii Jia was seen wearing a jersey with an upside-down Malaysian flag during his Group A opening match with Taiwan’s Chou Tien Chen at the HSBC BWF World Tour Finals.
