KOTA KINABALU: Internet and communication coverage in populated areas across Sabah has reached 94.4% as of Jan 31, the State Legislative Assembly was told on Wednesday.
Sabah Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Arifin Mohd Arif said that 432 of the 689 communication towers under the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA) had been completed and were operational.
He also said that through JENDELA, 4,986 of the 5,083 existing transmitter stations had been upgraded, while 275,605 out of 311,759 premises had been provided with fibre optic access.
"All 138 locations have received internet services via BWA satellite technology. The remaining initiatives currently being implemented are expected to be completed in stages by the end of 2025,” he said.
He said this when winding up the debate on the motion of thanks for the Sabah Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Musa Aman’s policy speech, involving his ministry.
Meanwhile, State Assistant Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said during the winding-up session that Sabah recorded 303,614 tourist arrivals in January, with tourism spending amounting to RM723.09mil.
"This is a 23% increase compared to January last year. To achieve the target of 3.5 million tourists this year, tourism promotion and marketing have been enhanced through the 'Explore Sabah' branding campaign, based on three themes, namely culture, adventure, and nature,” he said.
He said the campaign focused on seven major markets, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, China, India, Southeast Asia, and the domestic market.
He added that this year’s promotion focused on beaches and nature, diving activities, and direct interaction with wildlife to offer a more authentic experience to visitors.
"New products such as bird watching, wildlife viewing, educational tourism, and wellness tourism are now attracting many foreign tourists. The government will continue to support the development of these new products.
"This is to ensure that the quality of tourism in this state is on par with the best in the region. My ministry is also actively exploring new markets, including neighbouring countries, India, Russia, and Eastern Europe,” he said. - Bernama
