| Azlan Othman |
BRUNEI Darussalam should strive towards becoming a solution provider in the info-communications industry, instead of merely being an end user, said Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, the Minister of Communications.
The minister was speaking yesterday, at the second graduation ceremony for more than 300 TelBru employees, at the International Convention Centre in Berakas.
“Without any focus on research and development, intellectual property based on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) elements registered in this country is still low. We also should be aware that developments elsewhere, or abroad, are far more impressive and inspirational. This is clear in terms of technology and as a solution provider,” he said.
“We are yet to take full advantage of existing investments and infrastructure that can bring us to the extent of a developed country or producing nation. I fear this will bring a significant impact on the digital divide that is increasingly obvious in this country.
“There are many more issues that should be taken into consideration. Access to the Internet, especially in rural areas, and universal connectivity among the local populace are challenges that will distinguish the country’s progress along with those in developed countries.”
Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa then mentioned the current “New Wave” in smart technologies, that defines the communications technology of the future.
Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, the Minister of Communications, delivering his speech. – PHOTOS: AZLAN OTHMAN
Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, the Minister of Communications, presenting a certifi-cate to Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengarah Haji Buntar while CEO of TelBru, David Kay (L), looks on
“Perhaps you have heard of the Internet of Things (IoT) concept, where for example, essential equipment such as vehicles, public transportation and home appliances are equipped with digital technology, GPS, sensors, detectors, data storage and connectivity,” he said.
“This is the reality at the moment. If we do not get involved with IoT, we will be left behind. Intriguingly, this scenario is expected to materialise by 2025, with an estimated 100 billion connections in the world.
“Through this connection, about 55 per cent is through business applications such as retail, traffic management, which leads to the concept of connected nations, smart society and smart manufacturing.
“The remaining 45 per cent is for user applications such as smart home, connected cars, intelligent shopping, safety, wearables, health surveillance and much more.”
The minister also said that industry experts have predicted the adoption of 5G wireless networks and Big Data among global IoT users.
“Such technology will change everything. Telecommunications networks will become more extensive and complex, some new providers will emerge with a business model that is more innovative and challenging.
“The question is, are we ready for this change?” asked Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa, citing policy, management, and investments for the construction of this new infrastructure.
He added that the Ministry of Communications (MinCom) and the Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI) will continue to assess the effectiveness of the existing regulatory policies, which are relevant to a state-of-the-art ICT ecosystem.
To move things forward, the minister proposed an increase in the implementation of Fibre-To-The-Home (FTTH) and High Speed Broadband, with a target of 40,000 homes and businesses this year.
“We must expand the nationwide WiFi TelBru from the current 50 locations, which will enable all customers to enjoy access to the Internet anytime and anywhere, through the concept of wireless service.
“I also believe that improved infrastructure will enable the people in this country to achieve high-speed Internet from the present 10Mbps, to be on par with other countries in the region.
“The major challenge is that we must also be concerned about affordability, or the introduction of lower prices to users who are categorised as ‘light users’, which will also enable more of them to get Internet access at affordable rates. Recently, authorities in the United States have provided subsidies to high-speed Internet access for those subsisting on a low income.
“Local content development is also important, if we want to see broadband penetration in the country to increase in the foreseeable future.”
Dato Paduka Awang Haji Mustappa also spoke of the MinCom’s intention to reduce the digital divide, which could only be achieved through close cooperation between the government and the private sectors.
Among the initiatives that are being considered are funding for the Universal Service Provision, and the increase of accessibility, to pave way for the development of ICT as a crucial sector to the country’s development.
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