RM13.7 Million Allocation for WiFi Access Points at Three Institutions of Higher Learning
Efforts to Equip Public Universities with Internet Service
The Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has announced an allocation of RM13.7 million to acquire over 2,000 WiFi access points at three institutions of higher learning (IPTs), namely Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) and Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP). The allocation was revealed by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil during a press conference in Putrajaya.
According to Fahmi, the WiFi access points will be installed at the three IPTs from next January. The move is part of the government’s efforts to equip all public universities with internet service, as some public universities still face mobile outdoor, coverage-in-building and WiFi problems.
Discussions with Universities Began in December
Fahmi revealed that discussions with the universities began on December 5, chaired by the Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, and the vice-chancellors. The minister expressed hope that the three universities will be equipped with WiFi soon.
Prime Minister’s Instructive on Internet Access
On September 25, Fahmi was quoted as saying that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had instructed the MCMC and the Ministry of Higher Education to swiftly resolve the issue of internet access at public institutions of higher learning (IPTAs) as many IPTA campuses will be carrying out student admissions soon.
Higher Education Minister’s Efforts
As a result, on October 6, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said his ministry was striving to ensure internet access at all IPTAs was at the highest level and that it was collaborating with the relevant parties, as directed by Anwar who wants the issue of weak internet access in IPTA to be resolved immediately.
Conclusion
The allocation of RM13.7 million for WiFi access points at three institutions of higher learning is a significant step towards ensuring that public universities have reliable and high-speed internet access. The government’s efforts to address the issue of weak internet access in IPTAs are crucial in ensuring that students have access to quality education and resources.
FAQs
Q: Which institutions of higher learning will receive the WiFi access points?
A: Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) and Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) will receive the WiFi access points.
Q: When will the WiFi access points be installed?
A: The WiFi access points will be installed at the three IPTs from next January.
Q: What is the total allocation for the WiFi access points?
A: The total allocation is RM13.7 million.
Q: Why is the government allocating funds for WiFi access points?
A: The government is allocating funds to ensure that public universities have reliable and high-speed internet access, as some public universities still face mobile outdoor, coverage-in-building and WiFi problems.