Starlink internet services need to cover whole state to support educational devt

KUCHING: The installation of the Starlink internet devices should cover the state of Sarawak to support the educational development in the state, said Sarawak Teachers’ Union (STU) president Kullin Djayang.
 
In stating this, he underscored the importance of decent internet access among students, particularly those in rural areas who have been facing challenges in terms of social interactions and educational opportunities.
 
“Smooth internet access can help bridge the IT literacy gap between rural and urban students.
 
“It enables rural students to continue their studies more effectively by providing easier access to reference sources through the internet,” he said during the Supreme Council meeting at the STU Kuching Headquarters here yesterday (July 21).
 
He made these remarks in response to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s decision to purchase 40 Starlink internet devices for schools and universities following a virtual meeting with the founder and chief executive officer of SpaceX Elon Musk on July 14.
 
At the same time, he urged the government to swiftly implement the satellite throughout the country, including rural areas of Sarawak.
 
“We hope that this effort is not just a mere announcement or political rhetoric, as it will have a great impact on the teaching and learning process for students, teachers, and lecturers,” he said.
 
In addition, he appealed for the government to consider the economic circumstances of those residing in rural areas by setting reasonable or lower rates for internet facilities.
 
“Most of these people are in low and medium income groups; therefore, the rate of payment for internet use should be at a reasonable or lower rate to ensure accessibility of the internet facilities,” he said.
 
Starlink is a satellite communications device from SpaceX that provides internet links through the SpaceX constellation of satellites in low-earth orbit. The device can also be used to generally improve internet coverage in rural areas.
 
According to Anwar, the devices would be installed first at learning institutions before being implemented elsewhere.