Federal government vows to resolve telecommunication gaps, idle towers in Sarawak, says Digital Minister
Gobind (left) cuts the ribbon to initiate the programme at Rumah Collin in Selangau.
SIBU (May 31): The federal government has pledged to resolve the issue of 'idle towers' and areas without telecommunication coverage in Sarawak through close collaboration with the state government and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo announced the formation of a special committee, the Digital Economy and Fourth Industrial Revolution Council (MED4IRN), tasked with addressing digital connectivity challenges, including the problem of non-operational telecommunications towers.
He said the committee, which meets quarterly, includes state executive council members responsible for digital affairs.
'In the meetings, we discuss two key issues concerning Sarawak, areas with no coverage at all, and the existence of towers without services.
'I have instructed MCMC to prepare a comprehensive report on this, which is expected to be tabled within the next six months,' he told reporters when met after attending the Longhouse Outreach Programme at Rumah Collin in Selangau today.
The council's latest meeting was held on April 28 in Penang, with participation from MCMC representatives and Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong.
Gobind emphasised his ministry's commitment to fostering close cooperation among all stakeholders to expedite solutions for the benefit of the people.
In a related update, Gobind revealed that applications for the rollout of the 5G network in the Selangau area are currently under review.
'I've requested Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) to look into the application and submit a report to me by next week.
'Today, DNB Chief Executive Officer Datuk Azman was also present, and I believe he is a highly committed individual. I hope a decision can be made soon,' he added.
Gobind also stressed that concerns voiced by community leaders, including Tuai Rumah (longhouse chiefs), must be taken seriously and addressed promptly.
'My commitment is to ensure that this issue is resolved as soon as possible because digital connectivity is not only crucial for communication but also for access to education, healthcare, and economic development in rural communities,' he said.
Meanwhile, Gobind announced a RM50,000 allocation for Rumah Collin to fund the longhouse repair and upgrade works, including fixing roof leaks and other necessary improvements.
He was accompanied by Ugak, DNB CEO Datuk Azman, and Tamin assemblyman Christopher Gira Sambang. 5g Gobind Singh Deo idle towers lead MCMC Selangau telecommunications
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