Ts Dr S. Suthashini, Head of the Department of Information Systems at the Faculty of Information and Communication Technology, was invited as a panellist at the MCMC Research Symposium 2024 on 4 September 2024. Her presentation, which focused on the adoption of Pelan Jalinan Digital Negara (JENDELA) in remote areas and improving connectivity in Malaysia, received positive feedback from industry leaders and fellow experts.

The symposium, themed Advancing the Digital Ecosystem through Sustainable Connectivity, was organised by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). It served as a platform to showcase findings from research projects funded by the Digital Society Research Grant (DSRG). The event brought together researchers, policymakers and industry stakeholders to explore the future of connectivity and digital transformation in Malaysia.

Dr S. Suthashini shared insights from her study on the demand for mobile services in sparsely connected remote areas in Malaysia. The research included responses from residents in Batang Padang, Perak, and Limbang, Sarawak, regions identified as facing significant connectivity challenges.

Dr S. Suthashini highlighted the need for improved internet speed, particularly for educational and economic purposes. She noted, “Middle-aged and senior citizens are concerned about economic growth for future generations. Meanwhile, the younger generation focuses on educational opportunities and learning platforms.” She added, “Educational opportunities are significant, with many leveraging internet connectivity for learning.”

The research also revealed concerns among rural residents about the pricing of existing 4G services. Economic disparity between rural and urban areas is one of the key factors contributing to the connectivity gap. Beyond infrastructure development, Dr S. Suthashini identified affordability as a major issue that needs to be addressed. She recommended solutions such as subsidies, cost-effective technology innovations and regulatory reforms to help close the connectivity gap in rural areas.

The MCMC DSRG grant awarded to Dr S. Suthashini supports critical research in digital infrastructure, connectivity, and the impact of digital transformation on Malaysian society. Her research highlights challenges and opportunities for the future of Malaysia’s digital landscape in sparsely connected remote areas as the country aims to bolster its 5G infrastructure in the coming decade.