KUALA LUMPUR: The cost to resolve Internet connectivity woes at public universities and polytechnics nationwide is between RM700 million and RM1 billion.
Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said an agreement has been reached between his ministry and the Communications Ministry to address the matter.
"The prime minister has directed the Higher Education Ministry and Communications Ministry, particularly Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), to collaborate, and an agreement has been reached between the two ministries.
"This year (the repair plan would include) the replacement of outdated equipment that may have been using systems with poor connectivity," he said after officiating Makkal Sakti's 16th General Assembly here today.
Also present were Makkal Sakti president Datuk Seri R.S. Thanenthiran and MIC deputy president Datuk Seri M. Saravanan and
Zambry said discussions have taken place about the matter of Internet connectivity this week, with universities approving the installation of communication systems. He the setting up of communication towers were also approved to enhance the communication infrastructure.
"This (initiative) involves a significant amount. We estimate that the total cost for this effort involving universities and polytechnics nationwide to be between RM700 million and RM1 billion.
"We are continuing our efforts and we hope these initiatives will improve the quality of teaching at universities and boost network systems available at universities and polytechnics," he said.
Recognising the necessity of this communication system, Zambry expressed hope that the upgrades would give universities an advantage to compete on the international stage.
On Sept 25, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim directed MCMC and the Higher Education Ministry to collaborate in addressing Internet connectivity issues at public universities.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said Anwar wanted the process to be expedited, especially given the upcoming new semester.