Reach Ten, CelcomDigi to expand 4G access in rural Sarawak
KUALA LUMPUR: Sarawak-based telecommunications provider Reach Ten Holdings Bhd has partnered with CelcomDigi Bhd to enhance 4G connectivity in underserved rural areas of Sarawak through the use of satellite technology.
In a statement, Reach Ten said the initiative will deploy low-energy, cost-effective small cell base stations with high data capacity—engineered to address the state's challenging terrain and scattered population.
By leveraging satellite-based solutions, the collaboration aims to significantly reduce both the time and cost associated with deploying 4G networks in remote areas where traditional infrastructure like fibre optics or telecom towers is impractical or too costly to implement.
Under the strategic partnership, Reach Ten will provide comprehensive satellite backhaul infrastructure and SatCell devices, while CelcomDigi's spectrum will be utilised to deliver 4G service.
As a tier-one satellite service provider with nearly two decades of experience in deploying satellite technology to remote locations in Sarawak, Reach Ten can seamlessly integrate CelcomDigi's reliable 4G network services, as well as deliver and install the SatCell satellite system on site to instantly deliver 4G cellular service.
In addition to reducing capital expenditure and accelerating rollout, satellite backhaul also speeds up internet connectivity provision in rural areas, as it does not require numerous local authorities' approval in conventional infrastructure, such as approval of land access.
Reach Ten managing director Leo Chin said the venture builds on Reach Ten's comprehensive satellite services from Ku-band, Ka-band, and C-band and the recently announced appointment as an official authorised reseller for SpaceX's Starlink satellite services.
"With this collaboration, cost-effective 4G network services will be available anywhere in Sarawak. The only time factor for delivery of internet services would be the time required to travel to the remote areas.
"Our years of experience in providing rural internet are crucial in ensuring seamless service delivery that positively impacts the daily lives of Sarawakian communities, wherever they are," he added.
Head of Region (Sarawak) enterprise business at CelcomDigi, Yvonne Tan, added that the collaboration opens up huge possibilities for communities, from connectivity to education and entrepreneurship, using the internet as an essential tool in this age of big data, the internet of things and artificial intelligence.
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