“Just one hour from city yet still struggling’: Minister calls out weak internet in Asajaya, Sadong Jaya

Abdul Karim speaks at the BeliaGoBiz@Asajaya 2026 programme at the Asajaya Sports Complex on May 9, 2026.

By Emily Ruran

ASAJAYA, May 9: Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has urged ministers and relevant agencies to urgently address persistent internet connectivity issues in suburban and semi-rural areas, including Asajaya and Sadong Jaya.

The Asajaya assemblyman said those responsible must not focus solely on urban centres while communities located just an hour from the city continue to struggle with poor coverage.

He stressed that he would continue raising the matter until tangible improvements are made, adding that service providers must not overlook areas outside major towns.

“Don’t just think about your own areas. Look into places like Sadong Jaya and Asajaya. The problem is still there,” he said when officiating the BeliaGoBiz@Asajaya 2026 programme at the Asajaya Sports Complex today.

Abdul Karim said weak connectivity is already affecting daily life, including the use of the Budi Madani RON95 (BUDI95) subsidy system at petrol stations.

He also revealed that he has been personally footing the bill for internet services at several facilities, including the Asajaya district office, SMK Asajaya and SMK Hajjah Laila Taib, to ensure students are not left behind in digital learning.

“We have petrol stations here. How are people supposed to use the BUDI95 subsidy if there is no internet?

“I’ve been paying for Unifi every month so our students can keep up. But how long can this go on?” he said.

Meanwhile, a day earlier, Rubiah conducted a visit to Kampung Asajaya Laut following discussions with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), Sacofa Sdn Bhd and telecommunications providers on ongoing network issues in the area.

The visit found that several locations are still experiencing weak and unstable internet coverage, affecting daily activities.

She said the issue not only disrupts communication, but also impacts education, economic activities and access to essential digital services.

As such, she urged all parties to take immediate follow-up action, including strengthening infrastructure and improving coverage in affected areas.

“Communities in rural and coastal areas also deserve reliable, stable and quality communication services like other areas,” she said.

She added that cooperation between the government, MCMC, Sacofa and service providers must be strengthened to improve connectivity in the constituency. — DayakDaily