SMA dispels health fears over 5G rollout

KUCHING: A townhall session was held by the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) here Wednesday to dispel misgivings over the rollout of 5G in the state.

It sought to assure the public that the deployment of 5G is safe and poses no health risks.

“We are guided by rigorous scientific research and international standards to ensure that the rollout of 5G is both safe and beneficial for all,” said SMA general manager, Datuk Dr Anderson Ting.

“SMA is collaborating with the Malaysian Nuclear Agency (ANM) to evaluate the 5G telecommunication towers to ensure they comply with the established standards,” he added.

AMN’s Senior Research Officer, Roha Tukimin said claims of 5G radiation causing cancer are baseless, as no authoritative bodies worldwide have stated that the development of 5G networks can alter human body tissues.

“There are two types of radiation, namely, ionising, found in x-rays and radioactive materials, which can cause cancer.

“Non-ionising radiation from 5G only causes a warming effect and is not powerful enough to harm humans,” she said.

Ting said 5G coverage in Sarawak has reached up to 62 per cent, with the target of achieving 64.8 per cent by year-end.

He said that 5G technology is more than just faster internet speed.

“It is the backbone of our future economy and a key enabler of Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 and the Sarawak Digital Economy 2030.

“The 5G network would benefit the population by laying the groundwork for smarter cities, more efficient industries, and enhanced public services, and this technology will empower our businesses, drive innovation in our education and healthcare sectors, and create new opportunities across urban and rural areas alike,” he said.