SIBURAN: SACOFA will serve as the primary backbone of the state's telecommunications infrastructure to improve internet access and speed, particularly in rural areas.

According to the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, the government can no longer rely entirely on commercial telecommunications providers to expand internet networks in areas with small markets but high infrastructure costs.

“We cannot rely fully on commercial companies at this time; instead, the government will use SACOFA as the network backbone, given that the company is majority-owned by the government.

“The cost of infrastructure improvements will also be borne by the government through SACOFA, and it is hoped that this step will increase the speed and quality of internet access,” he said.

He said this when met by reporters after the 2026 Sumbangan Keperluan Asas sarawak (SKAS) Walkabout session here on Friday.

In a related development, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari also revealed Sarawak's long-term vision to explore satellite-based internet technology that no longer relies entirely on fibre optics, instead shifting towards cloud computing systems and digital data storage.

“That is why we need our own satellites, including nanosatellites placed in orbit.

“Now, there is new technology that allows internet access on earth to be channeled through ‘low earth orbit’ using new chips,” he further explained.

He added that although the technology is still in the development and research stage, he is optimistic that the target to realise a satellite-based digital ecosystem by 2030 can be achieved. — UKASnews

Prepared By: Jonnie Kiew
Photos By: George S. Embie
Translator: Ryan Lim