Penang’s free internet projects move forward

Malaysian news source The Edge Daily is reporting that the free Wi-Fi internet project in Penang will proceed, despite opposition to the scheme expressing concerns about health implications. The project will see the entire state gain free access to internet services, and the project is due for completion within two years. Two operators have agreed to invest in the state, REDtone, which pledged MYR10 million (USD2.8 million) to the scheme, and Packet One Networks (P1), which said it would invest MYR20 million. The state government is still understood to be looking for additional partners in the project. Free Wi-Fi access is expected to launch in public areas around Komtar next week, courtesy of REDtone. P1 will meanwhile roll out WiMAX services, although this will be a paid-for service.