PENANG'S 5G COVERAGE REACHES 91.7 PCT; PENANG BRIDGE CONNECTIVITY ENHANCED

GEORGE TOWN, Nov 27 (Bernama) -- Penang’s 5G network coverage in populated areas has reached 91.7 per cent, as of Nov 17, according to State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari.

He further disclosed that 445 communication tower transmitter sites across the state are now equipped with 5G coverage.

Additionally, he said that the improvement of telecommunications coverage on the Penang Bridge was also fully completed on Oct 31, after installation work began in the middle of this year.

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“The coverage test, conducted by the Local Government Division (BKT), in collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), on Nov 13, 2024, showed that the communication coverage is functioning optimally and smoothly,” he said.

He said this when winding up the debate on Supply Bill 2025 (Penang Budget 2025) and the motion of the projected development at the State Legislative Assembly sitting, here, today.

In addition to expanding 5G network coverage for outdoor structures, Zairil highlighted that the state government is also prioritising in-building coverage (IBC).

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Following the successful installation of 5G network coverage at the Penang International Airport and the SPICE Arena Convention Centre, he added that the Komtar building has now also been equipped with the technology.

Addressing concerns about the potential for major flooding in southern Penang, due to the Silicon Island project, Zairil reassured that the development would incorporate a design focused on biodiversity. This would feature a green-blue network that channels rainwater through strategically located channels, directing it to the sea.

He explained that the design follows the principles of the ‘sponge city’ concept, which integrates urban landscapes and vegetation to retain and restore water flow, manage flood risks, and replenish groundwater.

“Furthermore, a coastal buffer zone of at least 40 meters will provide flexibility for long-term coastal adaptation, as environmental conditions evolve,” he added.

“The drainage system of Silicon Island has been meticulously designed to meet the 100-Year Average Return Interval (ARI) standard. It incorporates canals and marshy areas, which function as natural water reservoirs. This not only helps manage stormwater effectively but also acts as a natural system to mitigate flood risks,” he said.

The state assembly sitting resumes tomorrow.

-- BERNAMA