KUCHING: Sarawak is turning to its own state-linked infrastructure company to strengthen internet and mobile connectivity, particularly in underserved rural areas.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg said the state government would rely on SACOFA Sdn Bhd as the backbone for telecommunications infrastructure following constraints faced by major national service providers.
He acknowledged that poor mobile and internet connectivity remains a critical concern as Sarawak aggressively advances towards a digital economy.
According to him, major telecommunications providers such as Digi Telecommunications and Maxis Berhad had informed the state government that they faced limitations in expanding infrastructure due to high costs and limited market returns, especially in rural areas.
“The said the market is very small but the cost of infrastructure is quite high. Now, this morning I have instructed them to improve connectivity through SACOFA,” he said after his Sarawak Basic Needs Assistance (SKAS) walkabout and live run at H&L Supermarket in Eastern Mall, Siburan, today.
He explained that the state government would work closely with SACOFA to improve fibre optic infrastructure throughout Sarawak.
Abang Johari stressed that SACOFA, which is majority-owned by the Sarawak Government, would spearhead efforts to improve telecommunications infrastructure with funding support from the state government itself.
“What we do is we will use SACOFA as a backbone. The cost of improving infrastructure will be done by the state government through SACOFA. We cannot rely on them (national providers) now,” he said.
He expressed hope that the initiative would significantly improve internet speeds and network quality across the state, particularly in rural and remote regions that continue to experience weak connectivity.
On whether Sarawak may eventually establish its own telecommunications initiative through satellite technology, the Premier said such plans are part of the state’s long-term vision.
“That one will be later,” he remarked.
He said Sarawak is already exploring high-technology solutions linked to the new economy, including cloud-based systems and low-earth orbit satellite connectivity.
“That’s why we need our own satellite, the nano satellite, to be in the orbit,” he said.
Abang Johari revealed that Sarawak is studying emerging technologies that could enable connectivity through low-earth orbit systems using new chip technology.
However, he said the immediate priority remains expanding fibre optic infrastructure statewide, while satellite-based solutions remain part of a broader target envisioned for 2030.
The walkabout was also joined by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian; Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Developmet, Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn; Deputy Minister for Transport, Datuk Dr Jerip Susil; Puncak Borneo Member of Parliament, Datuk Willie Mongin; and State Secretary, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.
