A TOTAL of 472 locations in Penang are set to have fifth-generation (5G) broadband cellular network coverage by end of this year, state Transport and Infrastructure Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari said.
He said a total of 257 locations have been equipped with 5G network coverage, as of last month.
“By the end of this year, the Penang government anticipates that its residents will have access to a 5G network with 94.4% coverage.
“The locals and visitors to Penang will get to enjoy the high-speed network coverage,” he said in his speech during the 5G network coverage executive forum at E&O Hotel today.
The forum was held to address the allegation that the RF-EMF emission level was harmful to health. The topic of discussion also included 5G network delivery challenges.
A row of panellists consisting of various stakeholders was present. They were Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) chief strategy officer Datuk Ahmad Zaki Zahid, YTL Communications chief executive officer Wing K. Lee, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) secretary Datuk A. Rajendran and Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) commission member Prof Dr Tharek Abd Rahman.
They answered the concerns and questions posed by those present during the forum.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who was present, said 5G network coverage was important in creating job opportunities.
“The establishment of a 5G network coverage is crucial in creating job opportunities across multiple sectors.
“It can enhance and transform industries such as agriculture, education, civil service, and administration, thereby opening up new prospects for employment.
“Penang is also the first state in the northern region to have launched a 5G network last year. The network coverage will ensure Penangites enjoy high-speed video streaming and website surfing,” he said.
Chow acknowledged the existence of several obstacles hindering the implementation of the 5G network. He emphasised that the forum would serve as a platform to address these challenges and enhance the understanding of all stakeholders involved.
Among those present were Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Daniel Gooi, Pulau Tikus assemblyman Chris Lee and Bagan Dalam assemblyman M. Satees.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad
Video by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat