LAWAS: About 73 telecommunication towers are expected to be erected in Limbang and Lawas under the Sarawak Linking Urban, Rural and Nation (Saluran) initiative for the two areas by the end of next year.
Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) said the completion of the towers with satellite dishes was expected to increase internet coverage in Limbang and Lawas from 59.6 percent to 96.1 percent.
This digital infrastructures and connectivity initiative is undertaken by the Sarawak government under the leadership of caretaker Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
In addition, there are currently 10 sites in Limbang and Lawas under the the Sarawak Linking Urban, Rural and Nation-Sarawak Rural Broadband Network (Saluran- MySRBN).
The availability of digital infrastructures and connectivity has brought much relief to the overall ecosystem of tourism industry players, even express boat operators here.
Hendra Razali, 38, one of the Express Pertama Limbang’s staff disclosed that the company is utilising social media such as Facebook and WhatsApp to facilitate its operations when asked by SMA’s e-newsletter team, NUJU Digital on Saturday (Nov 27).
He pointed out that the company is using those platforms to disseminate information to the public, particularly those who are not from Limbang and Lawas.
“Most of the time, people from other parts of Sarawak would make inquiries and reservations. The people who are from around here would usually purchase their tickets on the spot or visit one of the ticketing offices.
“Thus far, we’ve received over 60 inquiries and reservations through our Facebook page and WhatsApp,” he said.
He said the company’s Facebook page was a recent addition with the purpose of giving the public access to latest updates.
“On our Facebook page, we share information about the daily schedule and to notify if there are any changes,” he said.
He thus expressed appreciation for how the Saluran initiative has made it possible for Sarawakians to be connected with the rest of the world.
“I am very grateful that we have good connectivity here. It does not only benefit businesses, but also the local community as a whole,” he said.
