KUCHING: U Mobile Sdn Bhd has completed 78 out of 81 towers assigned to them under the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA), according to Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil. He highlighted that U Mobile’s performance surpassed other telecommunications companies involved in the project, which have faced delays in operationalizing their towers.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi mentioned that in some locations, towers have been completed for several months but are still not operational. He has instructed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to review these delays and ensure that telecommunications companies expedite the completion of their projects.

Fahmi’s comments came during a visit to the JENDELA tower project in Kampung Sungai Aur, where he also noted the progress of the SMART 600 project implemented by the Sarawak government. He stated that 325 towers have been completed and are now operational under this initiative.

Fahmi expressed optimism that the RM42 million fun
ding from MCMC for the SMART 600 towers’ operation would lead to more completed towers, benefiting the populace. In a related announcement, he revealed plans for a pilot project utilizing Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellite technology, which aims to provide telecommunications services directly to devices without reliance on traditional towers. This technology is expected to be launched by mid-next year and promises to offer basic connectivity in clear sky conditions, especially useful in emergencies.