PKR Lawas urges Sacofa to replace ageing fibre optic cables

MIRI (Jan 7): A total of 73 official complaints related to telecommunications coverage issues were recorded in Lawas last year, and the relevant parties must urgently take steps to resolve the matter, Parti Keadilan Rakyat (PKR) Lawas said.

Its chairman, Zahid Matserudin, said the coverage problem requires a comprehensive solution that addresses the root causes, coupled with implementation based on a clear and realistic timeline.

He said service disruptions have been identified as being caused by ageing fibre optic cables owned by Sacofa Sdn Bhd (Sacofa), which are frequently damaged.

“As such, Sacofa should undertake a full replacement of the old fibre optic cables instead of carrying out only temporary repairs,” he said in a statement on Wednesday.

Zahid also stressed that repair works scheduled for completion by the end of February must be adhered to.

He added that Sacofa should station technical personnel in Lawas to ensure faster response times to any problems or complaints.

On another note, Zahid said that under the Jendela (National Digital Network) Phase 2, 30 new telecommunications towers have been planned for Lawas, with one tower in Kampung Sualai included in the construction.

“In addition, 5G infrastructure equipment has been installed on a high-rise hotel building in Lawas and is expected to be operational in the near future, marking an initial step towards the expansion of 5G technology in the district,” he said.

He also expressed appreciation to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Sacofa for visiting Lawas to assess the issues faced by residents on the ground.

“We hope their presence in the field will help expedite the implementation of the planned solutions.

“This issue requires continuous commitment, effective execution and transparency from all parties to ensure the people of Lawas receive stable and quality telecommunications services,” he added.