Despite significant advancements in connectivity, parts of Southeast Asia still lack access to the digital world, according to the latest study of EdgePoint Infrastructure (EdgePoint), an ASEAN-based independent telecommunications infrastructure company.
In its study, EdgePoint saw that in the Philippines, 54% use mobile devices with a mere 42% accessing mobile internet. The study titled “An Infrastructure-Based Approach to Advance Digital Equity in South-East Asia” focused on Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, and highlights connectivity challenges, and proposes policy changes.
The white paper uncovers disparities in 4G coverage and high population-to-tower ratios, indicating underserved areas. Factors like limited 4G coverage outside urban centers and inadequate end-to-end infrastructure contribute to low internet adoption, hampering GDP growth.
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“Robust and shareable telecommunications infrastructure is the foundation of expanding connectivity to underserved areas and ensuring seamless connectivity in highly dense areas,” said Suresh Sidhu, CEO and founder of EdgePoint Infrastructure.
Several factors contributing to poor connectivity generally are thin 4G coverage outside of major population centres, and the absence of end-to-end enabling infrastructure, such as backhaul. These issues ultimately lead to low levels of mobile internet adoption, hindering GDP growth.
Policy themes
To bridge this gap, the whitepaper outlines six key policy themes:
1. Reforming fund disbursement for universal access initiatives, shifting to a sustainable operational expenditure model.
2. Conducting infrastructure mapping for strategic deployment decisions, especially in economically challenging areas.
3. Increasing funding for shared access backhaul infrastructure in rural regions.
4. Implementing targeted programs to enhance coverage in essential facilities within underserved areas.
5. Mandating access to indoor ICT facilities for better in-building coverage.
6. Establishing quality standards for mobile coverage to drive infrastructure deployment.
EdgePoint suggests specific policy recommendations for each market, addressing challenges like rights-of-way access, spectrum fees, and the absence of a universal service fund.
Suresh stressed the need for innovative approaches and public-private partnerships to ensure no country lags behind in the digital connectivity.