The government has stated that efforts are underway to provide internet services through Ocean Connect Maldives-India Asia Express (OCM-IAX) Submarine Cable System by 2024.
Speaking to PSM News, Deputy Minister of Economic Development Riyaz Mansoor explained that the fibre cable system will deliver internet services to the nation's populace. While acknowledging the private sector's efficient provision of internet services, he also highlighted the current reliance on foreign sources for internet connections, contributing to elevated expenses.
Additionally, Riyaz said that the fibre cable system has already been laid to India and Sri Lanka and the cables are connected to commercial telecommunications companies in the region. He, however, said that by connecting the country to international cable, the price and quality of internet services will change dramatically. He also said the cable will make internet access much cheaper.
Additionally, Riyaz mentioned that the fibre cable system has already been established in India and Sri Lanka, with links to commercial telecommunications firms in the area. He, however, emphasised that connecting the nation to this international cable will lead to a significant transformation in both the cost and quality of internet services. He anticipates that the cable system will substantially reduce the cost of internet access.
Furthermore, Riyaz conveyed that efforts are underway to initiate internet services via the new fibre cable system in the upcoming year. He underscored that private companies will be responsible for this initiative and the government will refrain from intervening in the internet sector. Furthermore, he highlighted that the cable system will yield advantages for multiple industries in the Maldives.
As part of a strategic initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Economic Development, the project is poised to usher in a new era of technological and socio-economic development for the Maldives, transforming its digital landscape and paving the way for a brighter future. The project will provide over eight times the current capacity, and the next-generation ultra-high-speed system is designed to meet the nation's needs for the next two decades. The ultimate goal is to diversify the Maldivian economy and establish the country as a key communications hub in South Asia.