The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) plans to expand the deployment of Starlink satellite devices across Malaysia in areas with limited Internet access.
Teo Nie Ching, Deputy Communications and Digital Minister, announced that MCMC has already purchased 30 high-performance devices. Out of these, 10 have been received so far.
Of the received devices, four have already been installed in various locations. These include Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Kuala Pilah, Kampung Orang Asli Kemensah in Gombak, Kampung Orang Asli Tonggang in Tambun, Perak, and Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Temon in Johor Baru.
MCMC is currently in the process of identifying other suitable locations throughout the country where Starlink devices can be installed. This includes areas in Sabah and Sarawak that require better Internet access.
Teo Nie Ching mentioned that discussions will be held with the Education Ministry, Health Ministry, and Rural and Regional Development Ministry to determine the necessary locations for device installation. However, these plans have not been finalized yet.
The government aims for Starlink devices to serve as a temporary solution while efforts to enhance Internet access nationwide are ongoing.
The Deputy Minister also highlighted the frequency interference issue faced by the Kampung Orang Asli Sungai Temon area due to its proximity to Singapore. This interference causes phones to connect to Singapore networks instead.
Teo Nie Ching expressed optimism that the Starlink facility will improve Internet access for residents, especially benefiting the learning sector of Orang Asli children.
Currently, a single high-specification Starlink device costs RM11,613 and functions as a Wi-Fi Hotspot with a coverage distance of approximately 100 meters. – Bernama
Credit: The Star : News Feed
