GEORGE TOWN: Penang is now the very first state in the north region to have fifth-generation (5G) broadband cellular network coverage after its launch in the state last Friday.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said through the first phase of the 5G implementation plan in Penang, by Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), a total of 151 sites have been identified in order to launch the 5G spectrum in locations on the island this year.
“From the 151 sites, fifty eight new 5G telecommunication structures will be constructed and the remaining 93 structures are enhancements from existing communication structures, ” this individual told reporters at the 5G Network Launch Ceremony here on Sept 9.
He said to get 2023, through stage two of the 5G implementation plan within Penang, a total of 235 5G regular communication structures is going to be built in the Seberang Perai area and an additional 77 5G communication structures around the island, especially in the Northeast region.
Chow also said like a step towards 5G, which began in 2020, Penang continues to be selected as one of the six states in Malaysia for the implementation from the 5G demonstration tasks (5GDP).
“A total of seven telecommunication companies have already been selected to apply 19 ‘use cases’ in Penang with an estimated cost of RM23. 2mil which includes 5 ‘verticals’, namely, farming, education, smart state, manufacturing industry plus tourism, ” he added. – Bernama