SEMPORNA, May 18 — The government will provide high-speed fixed broadband internet subscription packages for schools under the Education Ministry (MOE) starting July 1, said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
These special packages will be implemented via the Point of Presence (PoP) project and will offer more stable high-speed Internet at a lower price compared to mobile connections.
"Details will be announced, but starting July 1, the 10,000 schools under KPM will be able to choose faster and cheaper Internet packages.
“The government hopes that this telecommunications infrastructure (PoP) will be utilised effectively by the people, especially in the state of Sabah, to improve living standards, facilitate the teaching and learning process, and explore new, higher-quality lifestyles,” he said.
Fahmi was speaking during the PoP programme review at Menara Balimbang, SK Balimbang in Pulau Bum Bum today.
The Communications Ministry is also considering an additional measure of providing extra access points like additional WiFi since the current Internet coverage in certain areas only reaches as far as the teachers' rooms, school resource centres, or computer labs.
"In some places, if necessary, we can help by adding several other access points, and I ask the Ministry of Communications and the Ministry of Education to look into this, and I am ready to assist," he added.
Moreover, the implementation of the PoP project for rural and remote schools like in SK Balimbang is intended to serve as a hub for providing fibre optic broadband infrastructure, enabling the surrounding community to enjoy more stable high-speed broadband services.
Approximately 437,000 premises will be equipped with high-speed broadband infrastructure services when this project is completed, and this benefit will be achieved by implementing PoP Phase One with 630 planned PoPs, and Phase Two with 3,693 planned PoPs.
"As of May 2024, a total of 1,044 PoPs out of 4,370 PoPs have been completed, including 59 PoPs fully completed in Sabah," Fahmi said.
This high-speed fibre optic broadband infrastructure support will enhance the learning process in schools more effectively by providing access to extensive information and reference sources, making it easier for knowledge to be shared and practised.
"Additionally, this initiative will provide opportunities for the digital economy in rural communities to grow. Various activities, including home-based online businesses, can be conducted with more stable, high-quality, and comprehensive Internet access," he said.
The provided Internet service speed will set a benchmark for the use of modern technology related to infrastructure and utilities, including the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Smart Grid, Smart Water, and others, which can improve people's quality of life.
"In the past, the islands in Malaysia were still categorised as remote areas and difficult to connect.
"Through government initiatives and the latest technological developments, there are now several options for connecting fixed lines between islands and the mainland," Fahmi said.
— Bernama
