07 October 2022

irix has unveiled its Batam-Sarawak Internet Cable System (BaSICS) and Tier IV Data Centre (DC), dubbed irix DC, a new development intended to enhance internet connectivity for residents of Borneo and Sarawak.

BaSICS is a subsea cable system linking Batam, Indonesia with Sarawak, landing at the irix DC. From there, terrestrial networks carry the improved internet service to all parts of Sarawak and Borneo, including Kalimantan. The irix DC is the first Tier IV designed and certified DC in Malaysia, and as such offers improved redundancies with no downtime.

The two new facilities form the first phase of the Sarawak International Internet Gateway, in line with the aspirations of the Sarawak state government’s Digital Transformation Programme.

“We look forward to working with further partners in this industry, such as ISPs and mobile carriers, to utilize our infrastructure and are actively working to establish additional partnerships and collaborations for further expansion of our networks,” said PP Telecommunication’s CEO, Jonathan Smith.

Commenting on Sarawak’s plan for improved internet access, minister of Sarawak’s Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Julaihi Narawi, said: “The roadmap is laid out in our Post-COVID Development Strategy 2030, which outlines seven strategic thrusts to accelerate economic development, including accelerating digital adoption and data utilization to generate outcomes.”