BY LEONG Z-KEEN
KUCHING: An estimated 7,000 telecommunication towers and structures will be needed to achieve full coverage in populated areas in Sarawak by 2030.
Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Morshidi Ghani said thus far, there are about 4,447 completed telecommunication towers and structures with 3,791 fully operational.
“The remaining 858 towers and structures will be gradually operated until the second quarter of 2025.
“With that, the Sarawak government, will work together with the federal government, in exploring new technologies to accelerate efforts in providing internet services to achieve full coverage in Sarawak.”
Morshidi said this during the signing of the SMART600 Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) agreement at Hikmah Convention Centre here on Friday (May 24).
He pointed out that expanding the telecommunication connectivity is vital to foster economic development and enhance access to healthcare and education while reducing the digital divide in the region.
He stated that over the last five years, the Sarawak government has intensified its efforts to provide digital infrastructure and connectivity.
“Today is not just about agreement signing but it’s also about fostering collaboration and catalysing progress to ensure Sarawakians, regardless of their background will equally enjoy seamless and reliable mobile services that will stimulate economic activities and uplift their livelihood.
“Let us work together to intensify the public-private partnerships, paving more ways for a digitally connected future where progress knows no bounds.”