PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has initiated discussions with all public universities to ensure that internet access is at optimum levels.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said MCMC had allocated RM13.7 million to procure over 2,000 wifi access points at Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), and Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP).
"Some public universities are facing issues related to mobile outdoor coverage, in-building coverage, and wifi — three distinct areas. Discussions with all universities have been initiated by MCMC.
"Specifically, for three universities, UM, USIM and UniMAP, MCMC will allocate RM13.7 million to procure over 2,000 Wifi access points to assist students in these universities as an initial step.
"All the wifi equipment will be installed starting in January, and it is hoped that these three universities will be fully equipped in the near future, followed by other public universities," he said during his weekly post-cabinet media briefing.
Fahmi added that the meeting with public universities was held on Dec 5, chaired by chief-secretary to the government.
Present were university vice-chancellors and the higher education minister.
On Sept 25, Fahmi said that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had directed the MCMC and the Higher Education Ministry to collaborate in addressing Internet connectivity issues at public universities.
On Oct 6, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir said the ministry was working with relevant parties as directed by Anwar.