BINTULU, 15 AUGUST 2026 – The Sarawak Government today, through Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) Berhad, launched Program ‘Connecting Jepak’, a RM5 million satellite broadband initiative aimed at strengthening internet connectivity for communities in villages and longhouses across the DUN N.67 Jepak constituency.
The programme was officially launched by the Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak, YB Dato Sri Haji Julaihi bin Haji Narawi, at the Promenade Hotel Bintulu.
Program ‘Connecting Jepak’ is aimed at addressing persistent connectivity challenges faced by communities residing in areas where existing fibre-optic infrastructure and telecommunications networks do not provide stable, reliable, and quality connectivity.
A survey conducted across DUN N.67 Jepak identified 74 villages and longhouses requiring improved connectivity. This highlights the need for alternative connectivity solutions that can reach communities beyond the existing telecommunications infrastructure.
The importance of having a more resilient telecommunications infrastructure was further highlighted during the recent major floods in Bintulu, when communications were disrupted even in areas with existing network coverage. The disruption affected the flow of information and made it more challenging for communities and relevant authorities to coordinate assistance and respond effectively.
“The main objective of Program ‘Connecting Jepak’ is to ensure that rural communities have access to reliable communications. Satellite broadband provides a practical solution for locations where conventional infrastructure remains difficult to deploy, while also strengthening communication support when existing networks are disrupted,” Julaihi said.
He added that improved connectivity would provide students with greater access to digital learning resources, enable local entrepreneurs to promote their products and conduct online transactions, allow residents to access online government services more conveniently, and help communities stay connected with one another and with the relevant authorities, particularly during emergencies.
Meanwhile, Member of the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (ADUN) for N.67 Jepak, YB Iskandar bin Haji Turkee, said the programme was driven by concerns raised by local residents and made possible through sustained coordination between the Pusat Khidmat, government agencies, community leaders, and project partners.
“For the people of Jepak, this initiative means that the connectivity challenges experienced by students, families and small businesses are a thing of the past. Our aim is not only to provide internet access, but to connect communities to education, economic opportunities, essential services, and a more secure and inclusive future,” Iskandar said.
He also called for continued efforts in digital skills development, entrepreneurship support, and cybersecurity awareness to ensure residents can use the new connectivity safely, responsibly and productively.
The provision of satellite broadband under the initiative will complement ongoing efforts to expand and strengthen telecommunications infrastructure across the constituency. It will provide communities in underserved areas with improved access to connectivity while longer-term network development and infrastructure expansion continue.
The launching ceremony was also attended by Chief Digital Officer of SDEC, Ts. Hamadlan Haji Hamdan, community leaders and tuai rumah as well as other project stakeholders.