Edotco Malaysia has deployed a new fixed wireless access (FWA) solution in Uma Lesong, Sarawak, using a mix of fibre and LEO satellite backhaul and a mobile-to-WiFi switching feature designed to cover dead zones where cellular reach breaks down.
The company says the same design is meant to be replicated across other underserved communities in geographically challenging areas, following a first pilot that began in August 2025.
Fibre plus LEO satellite backhaul, with mobile-to-WiFi failover
The FWA solution uses a combination of fibre and LEO satellite backhaul to add flexibility to the network design. It also supports mobile-to-WiFi connectivity.
In practice, the mobile-to-WiFi function enables user devices to automatically switch from 4G and 5G to WiFi when they move out of cellular coverage range. That mechanism is positioned as part of how Edotco is addressing connectivity challenges in Uma Lesongs terrain, even though the village sits close to a tower.
Free WiFi and top-ups after the August 2025 pilot
After the successful pilot, residents were provided with free WiFi internet access of up to 5GB per user per month. Additional usage is available through affordable top-ups.
Uma Lesong is described as a longhouse community of around 1,200 residents across 10 blocks, located in a valley surrounded by dense forest and hillsconditions that create severe connectivity challenges.
Why a tower proximity still didnt solve the problem
Uma Lesong is stated to be 1.45 km from the nearest telecoms tower, but the terrain still drives the connectivity issues. The village chief, Huvat Laing, said that most villagers are elderly, while many children work and live in other parts of Sarawak.
Laing also described how connectivity used to require long walks or travel to reach a workable mobile signal or internet connection, with communication becoming extremely difficult during emergencies. He added that online learning was difficult for grandchildren due to unreliable connectivity, and said the initiative has brought a major change and that Uma Lesong is finally connected.
Edotco, Kejuruteraan Rasshin and supporting technology partners
The FWA solution was developed by Edotco and its Sarawak-based partner Kejuruteraan Rasshin. It was supported by technology partners VSD Communications and Aminia.
Edotco group CEO Adlan Tajudin said the project reflects a fundamental shift in how rural connectivity challenges are addressed, characterizing the build as a scalable, cost-efficient blueprint for nationwide deployment to accelerate rural connectivity across Malaysia.