SIBU: Concerns about radiation from telecommunication structures have been considered and health remains a priority in the construction of such facilities, says Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) general manager Datuk Dr Anderson Tiong Ing Heng.
He said that based on studies, electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions from radio communications infrastructure in public areas are very low and pose no health risks to the surrounding population.
"It is essential to rely on accurate data rather than unsubstantiated rumours from unverified sources,” he said at the Sibu Division SMA Media Appreciation Night Thursday (Oct 26).
He called on the media to help convey accurate information about EMF and help educate the public and eradicate their concerns regarding telecommunication structures.
On Wednesday (Oct 25), a local English daily reported that a group of 23 homeowners in Bakam, Miri, signed a petition calling on the authorities not to erect a 5G telecommunications tower near their houses.
The residents claimed that they were not consulted on the project and they were concerned about the safety of such a tower as it is built near their homes.
Tiong said the 5G network is safe for public health and it can also connect a million devices in a one-square-kilometre area, compared to LTE technology, which can only connect 1,000 devices in the same area.
In line with the national vision, SMA is working with Digital National Bhd (DNB) to establish a 5G ecosystem in Sarawak which holds the potential to revolutionise daily life, from work to leisure and daily activities.
"Implementing a high-speed 5G network requires a robust and closely spaced telecommunication infrastructure, which is currently being installed by service providers in residential areas in Sarawak’s cities,” he said.
In contrast with previous technologies, he said, 5G offers a minimal latency of just one millisecond, allowing for more efficient and precise remote device control. - Bernama
