DOHA, Nov 7 — Malaysia intends to propose at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) level that internet coverage measurements should no longer focus solely on the Coverage of Populated Areas (COPA) standard, but should also take into account areas where economic activities take place.

Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said the proposal was being studied following complaints from members of the public and Members of Parliament about internet connectivity problems in locations without residential settlements but which serve as major transportation routes or economic activity centres.

He said the existing approach, which is based on coverage in populated areas, should be reconsidered by taking into account the concept of Coverage of Economic Areas to ensure that connectivity needs in economic areas were also given due attention.