THE Kalaka constituency is in urgent need of internet access with speeds ranging from 4G to 5G to boost the digital economy, said its assemblyman Mohamad Duri.
He added the current internet access speed is not sufficient to meet the needs of the population.
“The issue of broadband services continues to be a concern for the residents in this area. Although some areas have been equipped with communication and internet facilities, the network access for these facilities remains weak.
“This situation is evident in the urban area of Saratok itself, such as in Taman Seroja Indah, Taman Malong, Kampung Lot Wawasan, Kampung Pagan, as well as in longhouses like Rumah Brues Sungai Antu and Rumah Ikom Senyawan, and in other areas.
“It is undeniable that many places lack internet coverage (blind spots), and it can be said that half of the rural areas, housing, longhouses and especially low-level schools, have unsatisfactory internet access,” he said.
He made these remarks during the debate supporting the Supply Bill (2024), 2023, and the Motion to Refer the Sarawak Development Budget Estimate Resolution for 2024 at the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting yesterday.
However, he added, what remains a challenge for this state is that a significant portion of rural areas still lacks high-speed internet access.
He believes the Sarawak government remains committed to completing rural areas with internet access that not only benefits the population positively but also complements infrastructure development.
In a similar development, he said that the Saratok area requires an entrepreneur hub to facilitate traders, especially young entrepreneurs, in conducting their business activities with an open concept.
“This means there will be dining tables and kiosks for traders. Complete and conducive business infrastructure greatly helps ensure the sustainability of the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“Facilities such as this entrepreneur hub are essential given the increase in the number of entrepreneurs in the region who need business facilities to market their products,” he said.
