Contractors to face action over delays of Jendela project

Contractors to face action over delays of Jendela project

KULAI: Despite an extension, phase one of the National Digital Network Plan (Jendela) project in Sabah and Sarawak is still unfinished, says Teo Nie Ching (pic).

The Deputy Communications Minister said action will be taken against the contractors responsible for the delay of the project, which should have been completed two years ago.

“We are really unhappy,” she said, adding that the ministry will issue penalties such as late delivery charges and liquidated damages to the contractors involved and review their contracts.

“Last Friday, I visited Sarawak to see the progress of the project (and found that) more than 20% of the areas in the state and Sabah have not been done,” said the Kulai MP at an event to present laptops to high achiever students in Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia 2023 at the district education office here yesterday.

Jendela was launched in September 2020 to provide quality broadband coverage and boost internet access nationwide.

It also aimed to provide fibre optic broadband access to nine million premises, expand 4G coverage in all populated areas and increase broadband speeds to 100 Mbps by the end of 2025.

Teo said for phase two, the ministry is studying the latest methods and technologies that are cost-effective.

“In phase one, we used micro waves and fibre but for inland areas, the use of fibre is not logical because the distance between the areas is too far.

“The ministry is looking at using satellites such as those installed at Orang Asli villages. We are doing a study on whether the technology is suitable in remote areas in Sabah and Sarawak.

“We know fibre takes a long time and even though micro waves can be used, there are hilly areas that are not suitable.

“Satellite is one of the more cost-effective ways. We will launch the second phase when we are ready,” she added.