BUTTERWORTH: The Communications Ministry will collaborate with the Transport Ministry to expand 5G network coverage across major ports nationwide.
Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said the collaboration builds on previous joint efforts with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to resolve internet connectivity issues along main Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) rail routes.
"Previously, the Communications Ministry and MCMC assisted in resolving internet coverage issues along major rail lines. We have identified several areas along the KTMB network from north to south of the Peninsula that still lack satisfactory internet coverage.
"Based on that collaboration, I believe we can expand the deployment of 5G technology, particularly at other ports," he said after launching the Penang Port Private 5G network at Wharf N2, North Butterworth Container Terminal, here today.
Fahmi said a cabinet note will be prepared to enable detailed joint planning between both ministries for this purpose.
He said the successful implementation of the private 5G network at Penang Port demonstrates the technology's capacity to boost productivity, reduce operational costs, and enhance safety through remotely controlled heavy machinery, digital communication systems, and surveillance robots.
"Given that MMC Port Holdings Bhd (MMC Ports) operates several major ports in the country, this technology should be expanded to other ports to accelerate the digital transformation of the national logistics sector," he said.
Fahmi added that Malaysia will propose a review of the international Coverage of Populated Areas metric currently used to measure telecommunication network coverage.
He said the proposal will be presented for consideration at the International Telecommunication Union forum in Doha, Qatar, this November.
He noted that the current metric measures coverage only in populated areas, whereas economic hubs such as ports, rail networks, and major highways also require high-performance connectivity to support 5G deployment.
"I will request the ministry and MCMC to examine whether we should propose expanding this metric beyond populated areas to include locations with critical economic activity," he said.
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