Boosting infocomm and media infrastructure for current, future needs

We thank Mr Chiam Sheng Shi ("Ensure ISPs can support Smart Nation push"; Oct 4) and Mr Sum Kam Weng ("Roll out free islandwide Wi-Fi service"; Oct 5) for their suggestions on how the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) can ensure that Singapore's infocomm and media infrastructure is able to support our current and future needs.

IMDA is doing so in several ways.

First, we are investing in our infrastructure, to provide reliable and high-speed connectivity for all.

One example is Wireless@SG. Today, there are approximately 10,000 Wireless@SG hot spots across 3,000 locations, offering free islandwide Wi-Fi service.

We aim to increase the number of hot spots to 20,000 by 2018, including in public spaces such as community clubs, public hospitals, polyclinics, MRT stations and hawker centres.

We also more than doubled access speeds from 2Mbps initially to 5Mbps in April. Features such as automatic log-in have also been introduced to improve users' experience. IMDA will continue engaging the public to find ways to improve Wireless@SG.

Second, we are putting in place regulatory frameworks to protect consumer interests and ensure service quality across the telecommunications and pay-TV sectors.

Currently, mobile, Internet service and pay-TV providers must meet the Quality of Service standards mandated by IMDA, and regulatory action will be taken against those who breach these requirements.

We will review our regulations to keep pace with technological progress and uphold consumer and business interests.

Third, IMDA is helping consumers make more informed choices.

One example is MyConnection SG, a free application that monitors users' mobile and Wi-Fi connection speeds. Aggregated data from users is published every six months, providing users with more accurate information about the performance of service providers.

We will continue to review our policies and initiatives regularly so as to empower new possibilities for Singapore.

Ann Chan (Ms)
Director
Regulatory and Corporate Communications
Communications Division
Infocomm Media Development Authority

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on October 13, 2016, with the headline Boosting infocomm and media infrastructure for current, future needs. Subscribe