‘Sabah Internet still has big room for improvement’

KOTA KINABALU: Internet connectivity in Sabah has shown signs of improvement, but some believe there’s still significant room for more to be done.

University student Veveonah Mosibin, the “treetop girl” famed for highlighting the state’s Internet connectivity issue in 2020, said there are still many villages with no Internet or telecommunication connection.

“Take my village Kampung Sapatalang, Pitas, and nearby Kg Bilangau Besar, Kg Bilangau Kecil and Kg Dandun for example.

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“Connectivity has improved where once there was completely no line or minimal E to 4G,” said the 22-year-old.

The E symbol seen on smartphones means “Enhanced GPRS” and it is the second slowest mobile network available.

“But in the adjacent villages of Kg Sinogindai and Kg Sinanggip, people still live without phone or Internet connection,” said Veveonah.

She urged the authorities to focus and push for the construction of more telco towers and conduct regular on-site inspections for damage or irregularities that affect the telecommunication system.

She said it is good to note that schools in Sabah are being equipped with basic Internet connectivity.

“At least schoolchildren are able to learn better now and do not need to lose out in the digital world,” Veveonah said.