The Batam Election Commission (KPU) has identified 15 polling stations facing a lack of internet access, potentially impacting electronic vote recapitulation during the 2024 elections. These blankspot zones, primarily in Batam’s hinterland, have prompted KPU’s efforts to work closely with local government and service providers to ensure election day runs smoothly without connectivity disruptions.
The upcoming 2024 elections in Batam face connectivity challenges as 15 identified polling stations lack internet, primarily located in Batam’s hinterland districts like Belakang Padang, Bulang, and Galang. The KPU has taken active steps to address these gaps, working closely with Batam’s Department of Communication and Information (Diskominfo) and telecom companies to explore solutions that will keep polling sites connected.
KPU Batam Chair Mawardi emphasized that reliable internet connectivity iscritical for deploying the digital recapitulation application, Sirekap. This tool electronically records and verifies election results but requires stable internet, which is currently missing in blankspot areas. Coordination with Diskominfo aims to mitigate these issues to avoid disruptions on election day.
According to Adri Wislawawan, Head of Planning, Data, and Information at KPU Batam, recent surveys initially identified 69 potential blankspot areas. Following assessments, 54 stations were confirmed with stable internet, leaving only 15 facing connectivity challenges. These isolated areas now stand as focal points in the KPU’s preparation.
The Batam KPU also collaborates with internet providers to explore temporary connectivity solutions. Ideas under consideration include portable satellite hubs and mobile internet stations to ensure these critical locations are equipped for secure data transmission on election day.
Further contingency measures include on-site devices for printing and scanning paper records, allowing staff at the blankspot polling stations to upload verified data once connectivity becomes available. This backup strategy, as noted by KPU’s Bosar Hasibuan, will ensure that all votes are accounted for without delay.
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By closely engaging with technical partners and government agencies, the KPU Batam seeks to overcome logistical hurdles in time for election day. Mawardi expressed optimism that these efforts will allow for smooth operations at every polling station, emphasizing the importance of reliable connectivity for fair, efficient vote processing.
Batam’s approach to addressing internet connectivity issues in remote polling areas reflects the KPU’s commitment to a streamlined, transparent electoral process. The ongoing collaboration with telecommunications providers and government agencies underscores the importance of robust infrastructure to facilitate an inclusive, accessible election experience.
Batam’s KPU is addressing connectivity issues at 15 polling stations without internet access by coordinating with local agencies and providers. This proactive strategy ensures efficient vote recapitulation across all regions, reflecting a commitment to an uninterrupted election process.
Sources: Ulasan, Satu Indonesia (2024)
Keywords: Internet Blackout Zones, Batam Polling Stations, Election Challenges
