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COMMUNICATIONS Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has issued a stern ultimatum to telecommunications companies across Malaysia to present a comprehensive solution to the country’s ongoing internet connectivity issues by 5pm today or face regulatory consequences.
Speaking during a visit to the National Information Dissemination Centre (NADI) in Air Kuning, Fahmi expressed deep frustration with what he described as a lack of urgency from telcos in resolving widespread network problems, despite their efficiency in collecting outstanding bills.
“I’ve run out of patience. If they fail to submit concrete, immediate solutions before 5pm, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will begin enforcement action starting tomorrow,” he told reporters.
Fahmi confirmed that he had spoken to MCMC Executive Chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din earlier in the day, instructing the regulator to demand urgent responses from telcos regarding poor internet coverage data already provided to them.
“Telcos must act faster. When it comes to chasing unpaid bills, they move quickly. But when we complain about poor internet access, we hear nothing for months,” he said.
The minister warned that enforcement measures under the newly amended Communications and Multimedia Act — effective since 11 February 2025 — would be far more stringent. Under the new provisions, companies could face fines in the millions of ringgit.
The warning follows findings from a recent MCMC drive test conducted on 5 March, which showed many areas failing to meet the Mandatory Standards for Quality of Service (MSQoS), currently set at a minimum of 7.5 Mbps. This threshold will be raised to 10 Mbps next year.
The connectivity issues, Fahmi stressed, are not isolated to Air Kuning. Other areas flagged include Belaga and Ulu Rajang in Sarawak, Bandar Baharu Serenia, outer parts of Tambun, Pulau Pangkor, and several Orang Asli villages. - April 13, 2025