KUCHING: CelcomDigi and Borneo Restu Sdn Bhd have entered into a strategic partnership to enhance high-speed internet access across Sarawak, under the Point of Presence (PoP) phase two project, supporting the state’s ongoing digital transformation efforts.
The collaboration marks a key milestone in the PoP phase two project, aimed at expanding internet access in suburban and rural areas, especially schools, which enhanced connectivity will empower communities, drive digital innovation, attract investments, create jobs, and boost Sarawak’s economic development and quality of life.
At the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony to formalise the partnership, CelcomDigi chief executive officer Datuk Idham Nawawi said the partnership is a significant step in the development of Sarawak’s digital infrastructure, as they join forces to facilitate better digital access, ensuring that the enhanced connectivity benefits by all Sarawakians.
“We look forward to a long-standing partnership with Borneo Restu, delivering the PoP project as well as exploring more initiatives to accelerate Sarawak’s digitalisation efforts,” he said.
Borneo Restu managing director Ian W Lee reiterated the company’s readiness in the timely implementation of the PoP project.
“We remain committed to expediting the completion of the remainder of the project by the end of 2025, and look forward to playing a key role in Sarawak’s digital transformation by working closely with CelcomDigi to support Sarawak’s economic and social development through better connectivity,” he said.
Last year, the Communications Ministry allocated RM3.9 billion to continue the implementation of the PoP phase two project, involving 3,693 PoP sites near schools in rural areas throughout the country.
In Sarawak, RM1.08 billion was allocated to Borneo Restu to build 681 PoP sites across Sarawak.
CelcomDigi is also part of the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation’s (SDEC) SMART600 project, aimed at improving digital connectivity in rural Sarawak.
At present, CelcomDigi’s 4G coverage in populated areas for the state stands at 90 per cent with further improvements expected as the company accelerates its post-merger network integration and modernisation exercise.
Beyond enabling connectivity, CelcomDigi is actively engaged in several other initiatives to drive digitalisation in Sarawak.
This includes organising the MY5G SME Digital Workshop in Kuching last week, empowering about 200 local MSMEs with digital skills and resources needed to improve business efficiencies through digitalisation and thrive in a digital economy.
