During a National Assembly session, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the Federal Minister of State for Information Technology and Telecommunications, addressed criticisms regarding slow internet speeds and highlighted the government’s initiatives. She reported that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government has distributed over 1.1 million free laptops nationwide and is introducing a policy for affordable mobile phones.
In response to questions from Pakistan Peoples Party leaders, Khawaja stated that internet usage and speeds have improved, showing a technical increase of 28%. She noted that while some internet issues stem from technical causes, the overall adoption of digital technology brings positive changes.
Khawaja mentioned that there was no complete internet shutdown during Ashura this year, reflecting efforts to maximize technology use. She underscored the importance of enhancing cybersecurity, considering national security as paramount.
Addressing slow internet complaints, Khawaja cited a report from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) indicating a 28% improvement in internet speeds. However, she acknowledged that high-usage areas might still experience slowdowns.
Security is a major concern, with security agencies experiencing over 150 attacks in recent months. “We need to halt cyberattacks and uphold national security,” Khawaja emphasized, affirming cabinet support for IT initiatives.
"No interest in shutting down the internet, national security is more important", informed Minister for IT Shaza Fatima during national assembly session.#InternetIssue #Pakistan #ShazaFatima #TOKReports pic.twitter.com/1wY0FdbcMB
— Times of Karachi (@TOKCityOfLights) December 18, 2024She also mentioned ongoing efforts to minimize user inconvenience and that the national internet now operates on a 5.5 spectrum. Despite facing technical challenges and ongoing criticism, plans are underway to introduce 4G and 5G spectrums in April.
Highlighting underinvestment in IT, Khawaja pointed out its role in current internet issues. The PML-N’s continued efforts include a new phase of the laptop distribution scheme and a push for affordable mobile phones.
Despite past struggles with slow internet, which positioned Pakistan low globally in mobile and broadband speeds, the minister voiced a commitment to significant improvements through the Fiberisation Policy and upcoming 5G implementations.
In addition, she addressed cybersecurity challenges, daily cyberattacks, and the government’s dedication to cybersecurity and data protection. Khawaja announced the Prime Minister’s formation of a National Digital Commission tasked with creating a five-year digital development roadmap.
The Digital Nation Pakistan Act 2024 has officially entered the National Assembly! Watch as Shaza Fatima shares exclusive insights with Nukta Pakistan, breaking down the details of this legislation.#nukta #nuktapakista #shazafatima #digitalnationpakistanact #digitalpakistan pic.twitter.com/L63OiUvdT2
— Nukta Pakistan (@NuktaPakistan) December 17, 2024
