Too much lip service, no genuine effort to improve internet service — SAPP
KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is still left far behind in terms of ISP quality and stability, said Datuk Richard Yong We Kong, secretary-general of Sabah Progressive Party (SAPP).
“We are still lagging behind, as Korea is already implementing the 5G network and 4.5G network which is now widely covered in China, including its rural outskirts and farm lands,” he said in a press statement yesterday.
Communication and Multimedia Minister Datuk Salleh Keruak made a statement last October mentioning that Sabah is going to get a RM100 million budget to double up the internet coverage and connection speed, even to rural areas to empower the local entrepreneurs.
“Too much lip service and no genuine efforts are being seen in all the promises made,” Richard pointed out.
“We will need a real Sabah government to really get things going,” he stressed.
He said there had been no visible signs of improvement to date about the internet coverage in Sabah, even in the city areas, such as Luyang.
“Internet service is still below par. How can the government plan for eRezeki, eUsahawan and eLadang?” Richard asked.
He added that even users of KK City Free WiFi were complaining about the service quality.
KK City Free WiFi was launched in November 2016 and RM5 million had been spent with the promise of 1GB data with 10Mbps speed, but users can hardly get connected.
Richard said it is just a waste of money and time if such service cannot get the users online.
He said if Gabungan Sabah formed the new government, it would put emphasis on ICT with special funding.
“Gabungan Sabah, as a business friendly government, will put in special efforts to drive and propel the business activities of Sabah in general, the larger KK city area, in particular.
“We are committed to providing stable, consistent and reliable high speed broadband to enhance the efficiency and speed of business. Furthermore, a Youth Trade Centre will be set up to work closely with the young people to realize their dreams and ambitions. It is a place to allow the youth to explore their potentials and create international business networking. The sky has no limit,” said Richard.