Contractors face action for Jendela delay in Sabah, Sarawak, says Teo

KULAI: Action will be taken against contractors for delays in completing phase one of the National Digital Network Plan (Jendela) project in Sabah and Sarawak, says Teo Nie Ching (pic).

The Deputy Communications Minister added that the ministry was disappointed with the contractors’ performance in completing the project, which should have been done in 2022.

“The phase one Jendela project in Sabah and Sarawak is still ongoing because the contractors have not completed the work despite being given extensions,” she said.

“Last Friday, I visited Sarawak to see the update for phase one due to the delay. More than 20% of areas in the two states remain incomplete,” she said.

Teo, who is also Kulai MP, said this after presenting aid in the form of laptops to SPM 2023 high achievers at Kulai education district office on Sunday (June 30).

She added that the ministry would impose penalties on several contractors due to the delay, including late delivery charges, liquidated damages, and contract reviews.

“We are really unhappy with the delay in completing phase one of Jendela,” she said, adding that phase two would commence once the first phase is completed.

During this period, the ministry is studying the latest methods and technologies that are new and cost-effective.

“We are studying the latest technology because under phase one, we are using microwaves and fibre. However, for inland areas, the use of fibre is not logical due to the long distances between areas.

“The ministry is looking at using satellites, such as those at orang asli villages. We are examining whether the technology is suitable for remote areas in Sabah and Sarawak.

“Fibre takes a long time to install, and while microwaves can be used, they are not suitable for hilly areas.

“We hope that satellites will be a more effective and cost-efficient solution. We will launch the second phase when we are ready,” she said.

Jendela was launched in September 2020 to create a stable and affordable digital connection with quality broadband coverage and provide internet access across the country.

Other targets include expanding fibre optic broadband access to nine million premises, expanding 4G coverage to 100% of populated areas, and increasing broadband speeds to 100 Mbps by the end of 2025.

The phase one initiative from 2020 to 2022 has already achieved the initial target of reaching 7.74 million premises, 4G coverage reaching 96.9% of populated areas, and broadband speeds of 116.03 Mbps. – BK