KOTA KINABALU: Monopoly of access to satellite signals by a single body is ridiculous and the freedom of having such access curtailed by specific sizes of parabolic satellite is absurd.
Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Dr Yee Moh Chai, who pointed this out yesterday, reiterated the need to allow people to have access to satellite signals and he had conveyed the message to the Prime Minister.
“We have conveyed this very important yet unacceptable situation whereby people are not allowed to have (the access to) parabolic satellites based on absurd reasons,” said Yee.
He said that a website survey also found that a majority of the public wanted to have unrestrained access to satellite signals.
“The response is fantastic in a sense that there are many people who understand the importance of having the freedom of access to satellite signals that should not be curtailed by the parabolic size specifications, which I think is absurd to begin with.”
He added that the various available accesses to information should justify the excuse of lack of censorship for young viewers if free access to satellite signals is allowed.
“Nowadays the access to information can be obtained through many channels. Kids can even do it through the internet.
“Constraining access to satellite signals is an insult to the intelligence of the people in this country. It is stupid and should be stopped,” he said.
Yee also condemned a deputy minister from Sarawak who countered his earlier statement on the issue by saying that those who wish to own parabolic satellite should register for application.
“He simply came to Sabah saying that you can apply and that it’s only a matter of application and licensing issue. The thing is you cannot apply for license (for parabolic satellite), you will not be given a license.
“He is not fit to be the deputy minister and I think he should resign. He should go back to his own state (Sarawak), and look around and tell me how many parabolic users had actually applied, been granted license, and are using it. Until and unless he can give me an answer, he should shut up and resign,” he said to reporters after closing a three-day two-night computer camp for senior citizens at the Beringgis Beach Resort near here yesterday.
He applauded the programme, which benefited 60 senior citizens who were selected to take part in the camp which educated the elderly on information communication technology (ICT).
The programme, he said, is in line with the ministry’s goal to narrow the digital divide and to increase ICT awareness among the people of various background and age.
Meanwhile, Yee disclosed that broadband penetration in the state is only at 24 percent and while the facility set-up is one of the issues hindering a higher penetration rate, there is also a need for people to realize the importance of better connectivity.