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THE Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has instructed telecommunications providers to take immediate steps to improve coverage and service quality in the Ayer Kuning state constituency, following widespread complaints over poor connectivity in the area.
In a statement issued today, MCMC said the directive came after Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil raised concerns about inadequate internet and mobile services, particularly in light of the upcoming Ayer Kuning by-election.
In response, service providers have taken a series of proactive measures under MCMC’s supervision to ensure improved network performance, particularly in priority locations critical to the electoral process.
“These include the nomination centre at Dewan Merdeka Tapah, 21 polling stations throughout the constituency, the media centre at the Batang Padang District Information Office (PPD), and the National Information Dissemination Centres (NADI) in Air Kuning and Sri Bidor,” the commission said.
According to MCMC, all major service providers – CelcomDigi, Maxis, Telekom Malaysia, U Mobile, and YTL – submitted updated and enhanced action plans by 6pm yesterday. These plans include the optimisation of existing transmitter stations, the deployment of temporary transmitters, and infrastructure sharing to enhance overall coverage.
“To address service issues, initiatives include the optimisation of existing transmitter stations, installation of temporary transmitters and infrastructure sharing among service providers,” the statement added.
To assist the public, MCMC has also established a dedicated complaints counter at the Batang Padang PPD in Tapah. The counter will operate daily from 9am to 9pm between 12 and 26 April, offering support for issues related to telecommunications, postal services, and other matters under the commission’s remit.
“MCMC will continue to monitor network performance daily and forward any new complaints directly to service providers for immediate action,” it said. “Any delay or non-compliance with these directives will result in enforcement action in accordance with applicable laws.”
The commission’s swift response comes as preparations intensify for the Ayer Kuning by-election, with nomination having taken place on 12 April. Early voting is scheduled for 22 April, while polling day falls on 26 April. - April 14, 2025
