Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Communications has announced plans to implement the 'where there is a track, there is internet' principle to improve internet connectivity along the KL Sentral-Segamat Electric Train Service (ETS) route. Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil stated that this initiative extends the earlier principle of 'where there is a road, there is internet'.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and telecommunications companies have been tasked with resolving internet connectivity issues along the ETS route within one month. Minister Fahmi expressed hope that Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) service users would benefit from improved connectivity while traveling.
The internet speed tests for 4G and 5G networks were conducted by MCMC in collaboration with six major mobile network service providers: CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, TM Tech, YTL Communications, and Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB). Fahmi emphasized the need for enhancements not only on the ETS route but across the entire 1,700-kilometer KTMB network up to Tumpat, Kelantan.
To address these issues, Fahmi has requested that MCMC, KTMB, the Railway Assets Corporation (RAC), and the telecommunications companies hold a workshop to identify internet coverage challenges and blind spots throughout the KTMB network. The goal is to identify both immediate solutions and long-term measures.
Fahmi pointed out that RAC and KTMB currently provide certain services like WiFi, but stressed the need for a more comprehensive, carrier-agnostic approach. He urged telecommunications companies to utilize shared passive infrastructure, such as towers and equipment, regardless of the service provider.
During the journey from KL Sentral to Segamat, Fahmi conducted internet speed tests at Kajang Station and Pulau Sebang/Tampin Station. In a separate statement, MCMC explained that the tests aimed to assess real-time coverage performance and speed of 4G and 5G networks along the rail route, a key transportation corridor in the country.
The tests measured various technical parameters including download and upload speeds, data connection stability, and continuity of coverage without interruption. Specialized equipment and network monitoring applications were used to ensure accurate findings.
Currently, MCMC reported that 71 percent of coverage areas are equipped with 5G services, with further expansion planned in stages. However, some locations, particularly in rural areas around Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, and northern Johor, are experiencing declines in coverage quality and download speeds, requiring further optimization by service providers.