SMA chief: 4G coverage in Bintulu at 52.24 pct

BINTULU (Sept 4): As of the second quarter of this year, Bintulu has achieved a 52.34 per cent 4G network coverage rate, said Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) director Dato Dr Anderson Tiong Ing Heng.

He said this milestone is crucial for supporting Sarawak’s future economy and plays a significant role in the implementation of the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 and Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030.

“The integration of 4G and 5G into the telecommunications network is essential for establishing smart cities, enhancing industrial efficiency and improving public services,” he said in a report by the Sarawak Public Communications Unit.

He added this technology will drive business growth, foster innovation in education and healthcare, and create new opportunities in both urban and rural areas.

Tiong made these remarks during the Sarawak Telecommunications Development Engagement Session with the community and agencies in the Bintulu Division, held at the Bintulu Port Authority auditorium on Tuesday.

He also highlighted that vandalism poses a significant challenge to telecommunications agencies, affecting the quality of services.

“Strict actions will be taken against those involved in vandalism. Enhanced surveillance and cooperation from local communities are necessary to ensure the smooth development of 4G and 5G networks in Sarawak,” he emphasised.

The event was also attended by Minister in the Premier’s Department Dato Sri John Sikie Tayai, Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Liwan Lagang, Murum assemblyman Kennedy Chukpai Ugon, Jepak assemblyman Iskandar Turkee, as well as community leaders and village chiefs.