Kuala Lumpur: The Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) will prioritize the improvement of WiFi network access in public universities that have less than 60 percent penetration. Its Deputy Minister, Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, stated that the process would be conducted in phases, focusing on enhancing broadband access in problematic areas within these universities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced that the Ministry of Communications, through the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), would allocate over RM600 million to improve WiFi network access in all public universities nationwide, with completion expected this year. Fahmi highlighted that universities and KPT had reported complaints to MCMC about weak WiFi signals and the necessity to improve mobile coverage, as well as the need for additional mobile telecommunications towers outside campus buildings.

Mustapha expressed appreciation for the government's commitment to this initiative, which he believes will aid students in enhancing their academic performance. He emphasized the government's concern in ensuring that digital infrastructure in public universities is improved to meet set standards.

Additionally, Mustapha noted that a special committee involving KPT, the Ministry of Education (MoE), and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) has been formed to tackle the declining number of students pursuing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The discussions are currently at the technical committee stage, with all findings under review to resolve the issue using appropriate methods. Mustapha stressed the importance of addressing this issue to continue producing quality students who meet job market demands in STEM fields.