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The Malaysian Communications Minister called for immediate action to address the issue of dropped calls on mobile phones, especially in Melaka, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring robust and reliable telecommunication services for its citizens.
In a Cellular Service Quality Test conducted along the scenic Sungai Melaka River, the Minister, along with various stakeholders, assessed the performance of six major mobile network service providers. During the test, which covered a 4.5-kilometre route, five dropped calls were recorded. This highlighted a persistent challenge that needs urgent attention to provide seamless communication services for residents and visitors in the region.
Simultaneously, wireless broadband download speed tests were conducted, revealing promising results with an average speed exceeding 100Mbps for all the service providers. While the broadband speeds showcased technological prowess, the issue of dropped calls remained a pertinent concern that required immediate resolution.
The Communications Minister emphasised the importance of improving cellular service quality, especially in Melaka, in alignment with the state government’s initiative to actively organise Visit Melaka Year 2024. The tourism-centric nature of Melaka makes reliable communication infrastructure vital for both residents and tourists. Addressing the issue of dropped calls is not only about enhancing the daily lives of the people but also about ensuring a positive experience for tourists who play a crucial role in the economic development of the region.
Melaka was the second state to undergo such testing, following the initial session from the Parliament building in Kuala Lumpur to the Communications Ministry in Putrajaya on 9 January 2024. This signifies a strategic approach to identify and rectify telecommunication challenges across different regions. This proactive initiative by the government demonstrates a commitment to staying ahead of technological challenges and providing a conducive environment for economic growth and development.
The presence of key figures during the testing session, including the Communications Ministry secretary-general, the RTM director-general, the MCMC state coordination division chief, and the state Science, Technology, Innovation, and Digital Communications Committee chairman, reflects the collaborative effort involved in addressing these challenges. The concerted approach involving government officials, media representatives, and telecommunication authorities underscores the gravity of the situation and the collective responsibility to find viable solutions.
The Communications Minister’s call for immediate action involves urging relevant telecommunication service providers to address the issue promptly. The minister’s emphasis on reporting improvements to the Communications Ministry through the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) ensures accountability and transparency in the efforts taken by service providers to enhance cellular service quality.
As part of this ongoing initiative, the Communications Ministry, through the MCMC, will continue to closely monitor the situation throughout the first quarter of 2024. Regular reports submitted by the MCMC will keep the ministry abreast of the progress made by service providers, enabling timely interventions if needed. This monitoring mechanism reflects a commitment to ensuring that the improvements are sustained and that the telecommunication infrastructure in Melaka is in line with global standards.
Beyond the immediate concern of dropped calls, the test session and subsequent actions are strategically aligned with the broader vision of promoting Visit Melaka Year 2024. Melaka, known for its rich historical and cultural significance, attracts a significant number of tourists each year. Ensuring a seamless and reliable communication experience is integral to enhancing the overall tourist experience, contributing to positive word-of-mouth, and fostering repeat visits. A robust telecommunication infrastructure not only benefits the tourism sector but also facilitates economic activities, business operations, and day-to-day communication for residents.
