Internet connectivity must be ‘top-class’ during Sukma 2024

Abdullah (fifth left) receives a token of appreciation from Anwar while others look on during the closing ceremony of 2024 Sukma and Para Sukma Handling Workshop held at Imperial Hotel, Kuching on July 10, 2024.

By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, July 10: Internet connectivity during the 2024 Malaysian Games (SUKMA) in Sarawak must be ‘top-class’.

This was the reminder given by the Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg to Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and UKAS) Datuk Abdullah Saidol earlier today.

Abdullah said he has given an update to Abang Johari on the setting up of nine media centres across the State and other matters that he believed are important with regards to Sukma event.

“However, Abang Johari said, ‘No, no, no, (Abdullah). The most important thing is to make sure that the Internet connectivity in media centres are of top-class’.

“Thus, Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) probably has to write a special letter to the responsible agency to ensure that our Internet connectivity and mobile network coverage are good; they cannot have any glitches.

“I believe the media’s work at the centres will rely a lot on the telecommunication coverage provided apart from logistics matter,” he said when speaking during the closing ceremony of 2024 Sukma and Para Sukma Handling Workshop held at Imperial Hotel here today.

A photo of Abdullah (back row, 16th left) with workshop participants during the closing ceremony of 2024 Sukma and Para Sukma Handling Workshop held at Imperial Hotel, Kuching on July 10, 2024.

Abdullah further added that Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts (MTCP) Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has also conveyed a reminded for all Sukma officers and those involved, to serve as ambassadors of Sarawak.

Abdullah elaborated that at every sports event, communities outside of Sarawak or other states in Peninsular Malaysia would wish to know the updates on their athletes competing in Sarawak and thus, the media is tasked with providing them with the latest information and news through mainstream platforms.

“At the same time, however, there will also be informal news reports through social media which will tell the side stories apart from the sport events such as the visitors’ first-time experience visiting Miri or Limbang, or food.

“Therefore, we have a big responsibility to give the best image of Sarawakians’ hospitality,” he added.

Also present was Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) senior assistant director of Community Monitoring and Development Section, Anwar Hanafi Ardimansyah. — DayakDaily