KUALA LUMPUR – Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has given all telecommunication companies a deadline of 5pm today to submit solutions to address the weak internet connectivity issues across the country, or face strict action.
Fahmi said that he had contacted the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) Executive Chairman, Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din, earlier today and instructed telecom companies involved to respond promptly to the reports of weak connectivity that had been provided to them, Bernama reported.
“I see that telecom companies need to be more proactive in resolving issues. When it comes to collecting overdue bills, they are very quick, but when we complain about internet connectivity, months go by with no action.
“I’ve been patient enough. If they fail to submit a comprehensive and immediate solution by 5pm today, MCMC will begin enforcement actions starting tomorrow,” he told reporters after visiting the National Information Dissemination Centre (NADI) in Air Kuning today.
Also present were the State Executive Councillor for Communications, Multimedia, and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in Perak, Mohd Azlan Helmi, and Barisan Nasional’s candidate for the Ayer Kuning by-election, Dr Mohamad Yusri Bakir.
Fahmi added that based on speed tests (drive tests) conducted by MCMC on March 5, many areas still failed to meet the Mandatory Service Quality Standard (MSQoS), which requires a minimum speed of 7.5 Mbps, to be increased to 10 Mbps next year.
“The internet connectivity issue is not only occurring in Air Kuning but also in other areas such as Belaga and Ulu Rajang in Sarawak, Bandar Baharu Serenia, areas outside of Tambun, and Pulau Pangkor. Even several Orang Asli villages have been affected,” he said.
He stressed that if the telecom companies involved fail to resolve the issue, they would face more stringent enforcement actions, including fines and penalties that could reach millions of ringgit.
“After the amendment to the Communications and Multimedia Act comes into effect on February 11, 2025, the fines and penalties that can be imposed on telecom companies will be much higher than before,” he added.
In other developments, Fahmi also reminded netizens to be cautious when making statements or campaigning through social media, particularly on issues related to race, religion, and the royal institution (3R) during the Ayer Kuning by-election period.
“If anyone uploads extreme content or touches on 3R issues, and is found guilty in court, they could face fines of up to RM500,000, compound fines of up to RM250,000, or imprisonment,” he said.
“I hope all parties will campaign responsibly.”
Fahmi also said that so far, no complaints had been received regarding the issue, but he anticipated the campaign would intensify in the coming week.
Commenting on Perikatan Nasional (PN) supporters allegedly using caricatures to mock Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and DAP Secretary-General Anthony Loke, Fahmi said he was not surprised by this approach.
“If they want to campaign in this way, that’s up to them. It’s their way. Let’s campaign based on facts, ideas, and offerings to the people, not just by insulting and berating others,” he said. – April 13, 2025