Proven deployment overcomes terrain barriers, extends 4G/5G beyond towers and delivers sustainable access for underserved communities

Bintulu, 15 May 2026 - EDOTCO Malaysia has set a new benchmark for rural connectivity with the successful deployment of Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) with mobile-to-WiFi connectivity in Uma Lesong, Sarawak, demonstrating a proven, scalable solution for underserved and geographically challenging communities.

Addressing one of East Malaysia’s most persistent challenges - geographical constraints that hinder reliable mobile coverage - the model shows how connectivity can be delivered in areas long considered unreachable.

Developed with its Sarawak-based partner, Kejuruteraan Rasshin and supported by technology partners VSD Communications and Aminia. The solution was first piloted in August 2025 and has since been consistently delivered broadband access to the community, validating its readiness for wider deployment. The deployment was successfully tested using both low-orbit satellite and fibre backhaul, demonstrating its flexibility and adaptability for different rural terrain and infrastructure conditions.

Following the successful pilot, residents are now provided with free Wi-Fi internet access of up to 5GB per user monthly, with additional usage options available through affordable top-ups, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive access model.

The model is also capable of extending 4G and 5G network reach through seamless mobile-to-WiFi connectivity, allowing users to transition automatically to WiFi connectivity even in the absence of direct cellular coverage.

By reducing reliance on physical tower proximity, the solution enables Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to expand coverage more efficiently and cost-effectively in geographically challenging areas without relying solely on additional tower builds. This demonstrates how connectivity can be delivered through intelligent network design rather than infrastructure expansion alone, redefining how rural coverage can be achieved in challenging environments.

Uma Lesong, a longhouse community of approximately 1,200 residents across 10 blocks, has long faced severe connectivity challenges. Despite being located just 1.45 kilometres from the nearest telecommunications tower, its position within a valley surrounded by dense forest and hills has resulted in persistent digital “dark spots” with no reliable signal coverage. Residents have experienced prolonged periods without dependable communication, including during emergencies, while students and families have struggled with consistent access to online learning and essential digital services.

Mr. Huvat Laing, Tuai Rumah of Uma Lesong, said the lack of connectivity had deeply affected the community’s daily lives for many years.

“Most of the villagers here are elderly, while many of our children work and live in other parts of Sarawak. Before this, many of us had to walk or travel more than one kilometre away from the village just to get a mobile signal or internet connection to contact our families. During emergencies, communication was extremely difficult. Our grandchildren also struggled with online learning because connectivity was unreliable. This initiative has brought a huge change for our community, and we are very grateful that Uma Lesong is finally connected,” he said.

Adlan Tajudin, Group Chief Executive Officer of EDOTCO, said the initiative reflects a fundamental shift in how rural connectivity challenges are addressed.

“For too long, rural connectivity has been constrained by geography. What we are demonstrating in Uma Lesong is a shift — from building more infrastructure, to designing smarter solutions that work even where infrastructure cannot,” he said.

He added that the model represents a scalable, cost-efficient blueprint for nationwide deployment, positioning it as a proven approach to accelerate rural connectivity under Malaysia’s next phase of digital rollout.

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