MCMC conducts internet quality tests in Serian

SERIAN: More than 10 internet service quality tests were conducted in Bukit Semuja constituency today (Oct 27) as part of efforts to improve connectivity in several villages experiencing weak signals.

Its assemblyman John Ilus said the joint site visit involved the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile and SACOFA Sdn Bhd.

He hoped the engagement would lead to improvements in internet connectivity, particularly in areas where residents continue to experience poor reception.

“Whenever residents complain about poor connectivity, we forward their concerns to the relevant authorities.

“However, there are times when residents say the connection is poor, while the agencies concerned report that coverage is satisfactory.

“That is why it is important to go to the ground and see for ourselves what is actually causing the problem,” he said when met after the visit.

John also thanked MCMC for its prompt response, expressing hope that the connectivity issues could be addressed.

Meanwhile, MCMC Kuching deputy director Noraizee Idris said several factors could affect connectivity, including backhaul infrastructure, power supply, hilly terrain and insufficient network capacity.

She explained that the presence of a telecommunications tower did not necessarily guarantee coverage from every service provider.

“For example, an area may have Maxis and CelcomDigi coverage, but residents using U Mobile may still face connectivity problems because their provider is not available there,” she said.

Noraizee also encouraged users to check their phone settings, particularly whether 5G services were enabled, and use MCMC’s speed test application to assess connection quality.

“Sometimes, the phone shows signal bars, but the connection is weak or there is no internet access,” she said.

She added that further site visits would be conducted to assess connectivity issues.

During the recent State Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting, John raised concerns over weak internet coverage in Bedup, Kampung Rasau, Remun, Slabi, Koran-Sorak and Riih.

He had called for a technical assessment of the affected villages within three months and proposed a community satellite broadband pilot project for areas beyond the reach of conventional telecommunications infrastructure.