BINTULU: The Sarawak government has allocated RM5 million to bridge the digital connectivity gap in Jepak, with satellite-based internet access to be extended to 74 longhouses serving nearly 11,000 residents.
Utility and Telecommunication Minister Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said the allocation, approved by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, would strengthen internet access in rural communities through the Connecting Jepak Programme.
He said the initiative, which includes the installation of Starlink facilities by Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation Berhad (SDEC), would give residents better access to online education and opportunities in the digital economy.
“Alhamdulillah, today we are here together with the elected representative and the people of Jepak to celebrate the success of the Sarawak Government, particularly the RM5 million allocation approved by the Premier of Sarawak to connect the people of Jepak with the outside world through the Connecting Jepak Programme,” he said.
He said this at the Connecting Jepak programme at Promenade Hotel Bintulu here yesterday (Aug 15).
A survey conducted in the area found that 74 longhouses required improved internet connectivity, including eight with weak signals and download speeds below 35Mbps.
Meanwhile, Jepak assemblyman Iskandar Turkee said the programme was introduced in response to residents’ concerns over unreliable internet access, particularly among students and small business operators.
He said satellite-based broadband was particularly suited to areas where fibre-optic networks and conventional telecommunications infrastructure were difficult to deploy.
“The satellite-based broadband facility is also important for locations that are difficult to reach through fibre-optic networks or conventional telecommunications infrastructure,” he said.
Iskandar said the initiative was expected to strengthen digital literacy among residents while creating greater opportunities for local entrepreneurs and expanding participation in the digital economy.
