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In the fast-evolving digital age, Malaysia’s Communications Minister, Fahmi Fadzil, advocates a vigilant attitude toward digital literacy and cybersecurity. He said this while issuing a comprehensive cautionary statement in response to the increasing prevalence of online investment fraud and social media slander.
Speaking at the Jiwa MADANI Drociramme event in Dewan Semai Bakti Felda Bukit Goh, Fahmi urged the public to exercise caution, emphasising the need to be wary of deceptive practices that could lead to financial losses and reputational harm.
Highlighting specific examples of scams, including misleading links promising financial aid, Fahmi underscored the simplicity of these schemes, advising individuals not to easily fall prey to such tactics. The minister urged the public to verify suspicious calls and messages, cautioning against responding to unknown numbers.
Recognising the challenges posed by the rapid spread of misinformation in the era of high-speed internet, Fahmi recommended tuning in to RTM’s ‘Biar Betul’ segment, broadcast daily at 7.59 pm, or its TikTok version for reliable and accurate information.
Fahmi acknowledged the broader concerns related to the dissemination of false information and slander and the potential impact on public perception. While acknowledging the benefits of improved internet speed, he stressed the need for responsible online behaviour to mitigate the adverse effects of misinformation. The minister’s call for caution extends beyond individuals, recognising the broader implications of misinformation on societal discourse.
In tandem with addressing online risks, Fahmi shed light on the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing internet infrastructure, particularly in educational institutions. Collaborating with Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, Fahmi revealed plans to prioritise internet access in schools and public institutions of higher education throughout the year. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader vision for improved digital connectivity and accessibility for educational purposes.
In the same vein, Fahmi separately provided an update on the results of the Call Reestablishment (CRE) function activation for LTE700 coverage conducted from Dec 21 to 29, 2023. Noting a significant decrease in dropped calls – up to 70% for some service providers – the minister expressed satisfaction with the outcomes but acknowledged persistent technical issues.
Fahmi urged telecommunication companies (telcos) to submit detailed reports to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) for further examination, demonstrating the government’s commitment to ensuring the highest quality of telecommunication services.
A recent cellular service quality test at the Felda Bukit Goh Digital Economy Centre served as a testament to the improvements, covering eight locations over a distance of 31 kilometres. The comprehensive test involved major mobile network service providers, including CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, Unifi Mobile (TM), and YES (YTL), and recorded only one dropped call throughout the assessment.
Additionally, Fahmi provided an update on 5G coverage in Pahang, reporting a commendable 65% coverage rate. He also highlighted the ongoing implementation of the Point of Presence (PoP) project in the state, specifically focusing on 57 schools in Phase 1. The PoP project aims to enhance internet quality through the deployment of optic fibres, contributing to improved connectivity and digital accessibility in the region.
Fahmi’s comprehensive and multifaceted approach underscores Malaysia’s commitment to navigating the complexities of the digital age while simultaneously safeguarding its citizens against emerging threats and ensuring the continuous improvement of telecommunication services. The minister’s initiatives align with the broader national agenda for digital transformation and inclusive development in the digital landscape.
