CelcomDigi Berhad (“CelcomDigi”) has partnered with Sarawakian telecommunications infrastructure specialist Borneo Restu Sdn Bhd to boost high-speed internet access across Sarawak as part of the Point of Presence (PoP) Phase 2 project, aligning with the state’s ongoing digital transformation initiatives.
This partnership is a significant milestone in the PoP Phase 2 project, which aims to enhance connectivity throughout Sarawak, particularly in suburban and rural areas, with a focus on improving internet access in schools. By expanding digital access, the collaboration seeks to empower local communities, opening new opportunities for businesses, spurring digital innovation, attracting investments, and creating jobs, ultimately contributing to Sarawak’s economic growth and improving the quality of life for its residents.
At the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony, CelcomDigi CEO Datuk Idham Nawawi emphasized the importance of the initiative: “This partnership is a major step in developing Sarawak’s digital infrastructure. Together with Borneo Restu, we aim to deliver enhanced digital access that will benefit all Sarawakians. We look forward to a long-term partnership that drives Sarawak’s digitalisation forward.”
Borneo Restu Managing Director Ian W Lee highlighted the company’s commitment to the timely execution of the PoP Phase 2 project, stating, “We are fully committed to completing the project by the end of 2025, and are excited to work closely with CelcomDigi to drive Sarawak’s digital transformation by improving connectivity and supporting the state’s economic and social development.”
In 2023, the Ministry of Communications allocated RM3.9 billion to continue the implementation of the PoP Phase 2 project, which includes 3,693 PoP sites near rural schools across the country. Of this, RM1.08 billion was allocated to Sarawak, with Borneo Restu overseeing the construction of 681 PoP sites.
CelcomDigi is also playing a key role in the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation’s SMART600 project, which aims to improve rural connectivity. Currently, CelcomDigi’s 4G network covers 90% of populated areas in Sarawak, with further improvements expected as the company continues its post-merger network integration and modernization efforts.
Beyond connectivity, CelcomDigi is actively driving digitalisation in Sarawak through several initiatives. Recently, the company organized the MY5G SME Digital Workshop in Kuching, empowering 200 local MSMEs with the digital skills and resources needed to improve business efficiencies in the digital economy. Additionally, as the platinum sponsor of SUKMA 2024 in Sarawak, CelcomDigi pioneered Malaysia’s first live broadcast powered by 5G-Advanced (5G-A) technology, offering viewers across the country access to the event. The company also deployed 5G-A powered 360° cameras at Stadium Sarawak, enabling viewers to experience the event through a Virtual Reality (VR) headset. During a live 5G-A trial in Kuching, CelcomDigi achieved the fastest mobile speeds at 30.8Mbps.
