Johor bahru: A proposal for the implementation of a Wireless Bridging System (WBS) project has been submitted to the Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM) to address poor internet connectivity in seven areas within the Senggarang state constituency.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Batu Pahat MP Onn Abu Bakar stated that the proposal, under the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (MOSTI), is seeking an initial allocation of between RM100,000 and RM200,000. The project is to be executed in collaboration with Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM).
Onn, who is also the Pakatan Harapan (PH) candidate for the Senggarang seat in the 16th Johor state election, mentioned that the initiative aims to resolve communication "blind spots" in the constituency. Currently, residents receive only weak mobile signals of one to two bars.
The areas identified for improvement include Jalan Kampung Sungai Keluang Darat, Jalan Kampung Parit Kadir, Jalan Kampung Parit Seri Bahrom, Kampung Punggur Darat, Sri Merlong, Simpang 6, and the area surrounding Seri Bahrom Mosque.
Onn emphasized the importance of ensuring no resident is left behind in the digital era. Through research and UTHM's expertise, the WBS system will help transmit and strengthen internet signals to the targeted areas.
He also highlighted his role as an MP, which provides him with an advantage in raising the issue of digital infrastructure directly with relevant agencies such as the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Communications Ministry.
Onn noted that securing funding and technical support is crucial for the structured implementation of the project, which aims to deliver immediate benefits to residents facing poor internet connectivity. Providing quality internet access is part of the "Six Commitments" outlined in his plan to develop the Senggarang constituency comprehensively.
Meanwhile, UTHM's Electrical and Electronic Engineering Faculty Professor Muhammad Ramlee Kamarudin stated that the WBS technology project proposal was submitted to MOSTI in February and presented in early March.
Several villages in Batu Pahat continue to face challenges in obtaining adequate 4G and 5G network coverage, according to Muhammad Ramlee. He mentioned that UTHM has successfully implemented WBS technology in Kampung Simbuan Tulid, Keningau, Sabah, showing potential in providing rural communities with more stable and reliable internet access.
The Senggarang constituency is one of three state constituencies under the Batu Pahat parliamentary seat, alongside Rengit and Penggaram. It will see a three-cornered contest between Onn Abu Bakar (PH-PKR), Mohd Yusla Ismail (BN-UMNO), and Datuk Mohd Rashid Hasnon (PN-Bersatu).
Johor voters are set to cast their ballots on July 11, with early voting scheduled for July 7.