Johor: 'Internet connectivity is much better now, and access is more stable,' said Pulau Sibu resident Ainon Rajab, describing how telecommunications services on the resort island in Mersing, which falls within the Tenggaroh state constituency, have improved over the years. Ainon, 48, noted significant advancements in the telecommunications infrastructure following continuous upgrades and investments by the Ministry of Communications and its agencies.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the enhanced telecommunications infrastructure and digital facilities on Pulau Sibu have made it easier for residents to communicate and go about their daily lives, given the island's nearly one-hour boat ride from Mersing Jetty. Ainon, a sundry shop operator, mentioned that homes further inland previously struggled with signal issues, especially during bad weather or after storms, which often disrupted internet connectivity and cut off residents from relatives on the Mersing mainland.
Several years ago, the construction of a new telecommunications tower, along with other infrastructure upgrades by agencies under the Ministry of Communications, notably improved internet connectivity. These improvements, driven by initiatives from the Ministry and its agencies, including the Johor branch of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), have provided residents with wider and more stable network coverage.
Ainon also highlighted the benefits for children's education, as the improved telecommunications coverage enables them to attend online lessons and virtual tuition conducted by teachers. Pulau Tinggi village head Rossana Hussin, 57, echoed Ainon's sentiments, stating that internet connectivity on the island has greatly improved, bringing significant convenience to residents.
Rossana mentioned a temporary disruption about two months ago due to fuel rationing for the telecommunications tower, but affirmed that the network has since improved. Pulau Sibu and Pulau Tinggi, part of the Sultan Iskandar Marine Park, are located in the Tenggaroh state constituency. In the upcoming Johor state election, 172 candidates are contesting for 56 state seats, with polling set for this Saturday (July 11).