This article appeared in Dayak Daily on 23 February 2023.

KUCHING, Feb 23: A total of 246 network connectivity structures catering to 5G networking will be erected in Kuching soon. 

According to Digital Nasional Berhad’s Sabah and Sarawak general manager Choo Meng Chung, overall, a total of 587 5G network connectivity structures will be developed throughout Sarawak. 

“This is to enable the people to leverage and benefit from hyper-connectivity services,” he said during a briefing session by Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) held at Kuching South City Council (MBKS) headquarters today. 

The briefing session was attended by MBKS mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng together with MBKS’s councilors and officers. 

During the session, Wee reminded all Network Facility Providers (NFP) involved in the development of the telecommunication infrastructure within the council’s jurisdiction to obtain Wayleave Approval Letters from the council prior to the commencement of any works at approved sites.

He said the Wayleave application received from the NFP shall enable the Council to facilitate and monitor the works that will be carried out complies with the Council’s prevailing rules, procedures, and the standard operating procedures for the benefits and the safety of all parties. 

“The Council will not hesitate to take stern action against any party that violate the Council’s laws,” he added. 

Wee also hopes SMA will continue and expand the outreach programme throughout Sarawak to educate the public or communities on the correct facts regarding the Radio Frequency Electromagnetic Field (RF-EMF) emitted by the telecommunication structure. 

He said having the requisite knowledge will help in demystifying the public concern or fears over the false allegations of potential health hazards caused by the RF-EMF from the telecommunication structure.