Federal, S'wak govts to work closely on fixing internet coverage - Saifuddin

He said the ministry through the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) had held preliminary discussions with the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) to overcome the problem, and it was included in the National Digital Network (JENDELA) plan.

"We will redouble our efforts to ensure that no community group is marginalised in terms of internet access. The key factor now is that we already have close cooperation with the state government...which is important.

"For example, there are representatives from Sarawak who are members of MCMC and there are also representatives from MCMC who are board members in SMA," he told reporters after attending the Merdeka @ Komuniti program at Rh. Akat Ak Akong in Penasu here.

JENDELA is the government's plan to enhance internet networks nationwide, particularly in rural areas, with the current phase being to accelerate network upgrades from 2G and 3G networks to 4G, while the second phase is to implement the 5G network.

On the Merdeka @ Komuniti programme, Saifuddin said it was to raise awareness among the people on the 2020 National Day and Malaysia Day 2020 celebrations, by stirring up the patriotic spirit and love for the country through programmes at the grassroots level.

“We have been running this programme from July 16 until Sept 16, with the itinerary being talks, speeches, forums and the handing over of the Jalur Gemilang (national flag) and it is organised in every parliamentary constituency nationwide, involving 696 programmes in total.

"We hope with the organising of various activities under Merdeka @ Komuniti, it can enhance our love for the country," he said.

The national-level 2020 Malaysia Day celebration will take place at the Sibu Indoor Stadium tomorrow, and will be attended by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg and other Cabinet ministers.