TUMPAT: A total of 264 telecommunication towers that were affected by the recent floods in Kelantan have been restored, says Fahmi Fadzil.
The Communications Minister said the towers were now back in operation and their functions would continue to be improved.
“One of the improvements that can be made is ‘site hardening’.
“Therefore, I request that for towers like this, a study be carried out in terms of the need to implement the move – especially in areas that are potentially affected by floods – and take some preventive measures before this October.
“As we know, preparation for the northeast monsoon will start in October, so all measures must be taken before the season arrives,” he told reporters after inspecting telecommunication towers that were affected by the recent floods in Kampung Jubakar Pantai here yesterday, Bernama reported.
Fahmi also instructed the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to hold a workshop with all network service providers and Tenaga Nasional Bhd to identify the locations of telecommunication towers that have never been affected by floods but could be at risk in the future.
He highlighted a location in Tumpat as an example, noting that it had never experienced flooding before being affected by the recent floods.
“Therefore, the MCMC, in collaboration with telecommunications companies, should conduct a simulation workshop to assess the potential impact if water levels rise in such areas,” he said, adding that replacing equipment and upgrading affected towers entails significant costs.
Fahmi urged the ministry and MCMC to explore more sustainable and resilient solutions.
“Among the measures that can be implemented is the use of alternative technologies, such as solar energy, in areas without electricity supply.
“Additionally, new technologies currently being tested... will also be considered for future implementation,” he added.
