KUCHING: Sarawak is taking a two-pronged approach to bridge the digital divide in remote areas, leveraging both fibre optics and Starlink technology, said Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) Technical Advisor, Peter Chia.
“Fibre optics is ideal for most rural areas,” said Chia, highlighting the technology’s suitability for locations where building telecommunication towers is a lengthy process due to Sarawak’s vast and hilly terrain.
However, for areas presenting extreme connection challenges, Sarawak also want to explore Starlink technology, he said.
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation developed by SpaceX, known for its potential to deliver high-speed internet even in underserved regions.
“Many things require data processing as we move towards a digital economy.
“Accurate connectivity ensures every Sarawakian is included in the digital economic development agenda,” he added.
The importance of digitalisation in Sarawak resonated with the visiting United States Embassy delegation led by Commercial Counselor, Francis Peter.
“We are very interested in exploring the digital field in Sarawak, such as cybersecurity and smart city planning.
“We welcome future cooperation to explore more resources inSMA Sarawak,” said Francis.
This focus on digital development wasn’t isolated.
Earlier on Tuesday, SMA also hosted a delegation from the Canadian High Commissioner to Malaysia. During the visit, presentations on smart city development in Sarawak were delivered by SMA General Manager, Datuk Dr. Anderson Tiong, SAINS chief executive officer (CEO), Busiai Seman, and Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) chief operating officer (COO), Malseni Jamal.
