Kota kinabalu: The implementation of direct-to-device satellite internet technology will be tested at several locations in Sabah under the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA) Phase II, said Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil. He stated that several suitable locations in the state would be identified to conduct a proof of concept for the direct-to-device technology, which enables internet connectivity from satellites to be delivered directly to mobile phones.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi mentioned, "We will do this under JENDELA Phase II. We will find locations in Sabah, Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia to carry out the tests," during a session with reporters after paying a courtesy call on the Yang Dipertua Negeri of Sabah, Tun Musa Aman. The meeting, which included Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah, also provided updates on various initiatives being implemented by the ministry and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
Fahmi announced that the JENDELA Phase II Project will soon commence, involving over 300 locations across Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia. He explained that while some locations will require tower installations, others will adopt satellite internet or technology that bypasses the need for towers. "For more remote areas but with residents, we are using a different strategy this time," he added, highlighting that the installation of telecommunications towers could take at least two years and would face multiple challenges.
Additionally, Fahmi discussed the MADANI Submarine Cable Connection (SALAM) initiative, which is expected to significantly boost Sabah's digital economy by providing faster and more stable internet services. This large-scale project will connect Sedili, Kuching, and Miri in Sarawak, along with Tanjung Aru, Sandakan, and Tawau in Sabah. He emphasized the new initiative's importance, stating, "Previously, the landing point was in Tanjung Aru, near Kota Kinabalu. But we found that the submarine cable needs to be installed along the coastline all the way to Tawau. This is a new initiative that we believe will be very meaningful towards developing Sabah's digital economy."
Fahmi assured that his ministry would ensure timely and cost-effective implementation of all initiatives, particularly those involving digital infrastructure in Sabah, while committing to enhance digital literacy among the public. He highlighted the importance of understanding internet usage to prevent the public from becoming victims of scams, online crimes, or cybercrime.
He revealed that the MCMC has detected over 2,000 fake accounts nationwide in the past five to six weeks, used for spreading fake news, 3R content, and posts related to scams and online gambling. "This is quite concerning, including for Sabah. We cannot rule out the possibility that many fake accounts are also operating in Sabah," Fahmi noted. He informed the Yang Dipertua Negeri of Sabah about MCMC's efforts to intensify the fight against fake accounts, particularly those involved in online criminal activities.