Reliable internet access: a postpandemic imperative
In the postpandemic world, a decent internet connection is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world underwent a digital transformation at an unprecedented pace.
Remote work, online education, telemedicine and virtual social interactions became the new norm. The need for a dependable and fast internet connection became urgent as communities adapted to the new trends.
This change in people’s way of life was even more important in new condominiums and communities in the Philippines and the wider Southeast Asia. Ensuring strong and reliable internet connectivity was given high priority.
COVID-19 hastened the adoption of digital technologies in various industries. Homes were converted to workspaces, learning environments and entertainment hubs. The demand for quick and dependable connectivity surged as more people came to rely on the internet for fundamental tasks.
Businesses had to adopt remote working arrangements and educational institutions switched to online instruction. Even healthcare services were delivered online through telemedicine.
These changes would not have been possible without a reliable internet access.
Southeast Asia adapts
The dynamic but varied economies of Southeast Asia saw the dramatic effects of the pandemic on digitization and online activity. To keep up with changing needs, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and the Philippines realized the necessity to upgrade their digital infrastructure and its availability.
Economic growth. Access to quick and dependable internet has become a key factor in driving economic expansion. For instance, the Philippines, with its expanding business process outsourcing (BPO) and call center industries, largely relies on a robust internet infrastructure to serve clients around the world.
Staffs of these businesses, forced to work at home during the pandemic, required a decent home connection. A dependable connection was essential for sustaining these sectors and attracting fresh capital.
The demand for quick and dependable connectivity surged as more people came to rely on the internet for fundamental tasks.
Education. Online learning has become an important part of Southeast Asian countries’ efforts to enhance their educational systems. Schools and universities had to immediately adopt distance learning during the pandemic. Students needed a steady internet connection to use online resources, take part in virtual classes and submit assignments.
Telemedicine. The pandemic made telemedicine services increasingly popular. A strong internet connection can bridge the distance between patients and healthcare professionals, particularly in far-flung underprivileged locations, and facilitate access to critical medical care.
Successes
The provision of dependable internet connectivity was prioritized in new developments and by communities in Southeast Asia.
Singapore’s Punggol Digital District. This area aims to be the blueprint for future developments with its emphasis on building a digital environment. It promotes creativity and entrepreneurship by providing high-speed internet access, cutting-edge services and co-working spaces.
Malaysia’s Cyberjaya. High-speed broadband is a key component of this smart city plan. It has drawn technology firms and entrepreneurs that spurred the region’s economic growth.
Students needed a steady internet connection to use online resources.
Fiber optic networks in the Philippines. Fiber optic networks are becoming much more prevalent in new communities and condos, allowing residents quick access to the internet. Property developers use this as a key selling point.
In the postpandemic world, a decent internet connection is no longer a luxury but a necessity.
By prioritizing high-speed internet infrastructure, new condos and communities can support the region’s digital transformation, guarantee a higher standard of living for residents and maintain their competitiveness in the global market.
The author is the COO and digital co-founder of PropertyAccess
