N.SEMBILAN ACHIEVES 99.76 PCT INTERNET COVERAGE IN POPULATED AREAS

SEREMBAN, Nov 27 (Bernama) -- Mobile Internet coverage across populated areas in Negeri Sembilan has reached 99.76 per cent as of the third quarter this year, according to State Heritage, Technology, Innovation and Digital Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Faizal Ramli.

He said all 1,666 existing transmitters have been upgraded to 4G, with 220,444 out of 221,627 fibre-optic fixed-line connections now operational. The remaining connections are set for phased completion by late 2025.

“For 5G development under the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Digital Nasional Berhad, 229 out of 232 sites have been completed, covering 77.6 per cent of the targeted areas, primarily in key districts.

“We are committed to expanding Internet access through the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA) initiative, which focuses on new infrastructure, fibre-optic broadband development and increasing 5G coverage,” when winding up the debate of the 2025 Supply Bill (Budget) during the state assembly sitting here today. 

In preparation for Visit Negeri Sembilan Year 2026, Nicole Tan Lee Koon, the State Tourism, Arts and Culture Committee chairman told the state assembly that efforts are being made to strengthen tourism offerings in each district.

She said high-impact events, such as the NS Fest, which attracted 1.147 million visitors and generated RM4.3 million in sales between July 27 and Aug 3 this year will continue to feature prominently in the state's tourism strategy.

Meanwhile, State Youth and Sports Committee chairman Mustapha Nagoor said the state contingent for the Malaysia Games (SUKMA) 2026 will focus on non-contact sports such as shooting, tenpin bowling and wushu, following impressive results in these disciplines during the previous SUKMA.

However, the Gemas Sports Complex project in Tampin has been classified as "sick" due to a 497-day delay, he said, adding that the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS) issued a Certificate of Incomplete Work (CNC) to the contractor on April 17.

“KBS identified that the delay in the project was due to the contractor’s cash flow issues, which led to a shortage of workers and construction materials at the site.

“The contractor has also requested an extension of time until February 20 next year,” he said, adding that the project began on May 24, 2021, and was originally scheduled for completion on April 16 this year.

He said the Rembau Sports Complex, initially expected to be completed by Nov 5 this year, has faced delays as well, pushing the completion date to June 19 next year, adding that these issues are being addressed to ensure readiness for upcoming sports events.

-- BERNAMA