Kajang telco tower project halted, MPKj to engage with residents

The foundation of the telecommunications tower at Taman Bukit Permai, Kajang. — Photos: LOW LAY PHON/The Star

CONSTRUCTION of a 5G telecommunications tower along Jalan BP 1/2 in Taman Bukit Permai, Kajang, has been put on hold following residents’ complaints.

Kajang assemblyman David Cheong Kian Yong said the project had been temporarily halted so that engagement sessions could take place between residents and Kajang Municipal Council (MPKj).

The building of the 24m-tall tower, which would have enabled 5G service in the area, faced resistance from some residents who claimed they were not informed of the project.

One resident, who only wanted to be known as Neo, was against the tower being built at the site.

“We don’t oppose 5G but we do not want the telco tower built here,” he said.

“We weren’t even aware that a telco tower was being erected, as no notice was given.

Cheong: Taman Bukit Permai may be deprived of 5G network coverage if the telco tower is constructed elsewhere.

“When several residents asked the contractors about the construction, they avoided answering us.

“We are worried about the long-term effects of having it here,” he added.

According to Cheong, the tower’s emissions and radiation levels were reportedly below the permissible exposure rate outlined in the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s mandatory standard which all industries had to adhere to.He said that if the tower was not erected in the area, Taman Bukit Permai might be deprived of 5G network coverage.

He added that residents could submit their complaint letters to the local council.

Also present at the press conference was councillor Lim Kim Eng and MPKj personnel.