THE 5G network in Penang will cover more than 80% coverage of populated areas after the communications infrastructure is completed by the end of this year. 

Deputy Communications and Digital Minister Teo Nie Ching said her ministry’s goal is to build 470 5G towers in Penang and to date, 290 have been built.

She said a total of 244 5G towers are operational in Penang and coverage of 5G services in populated areas in the state has reached 67.7%.

“This means Penang is ahead of the average 5G coverage across the country, which is 64.7% so far. Our expectation is to reach over 80% by end of this year,” she told reporters after opening the Merdeka @ Komuniti progamme in the Bagan parliamentary constituency in Penang, today.

She said the ministry would work with Digital Nasional Bhd to ensure that the target of 80% 5G coverage across the country is achieved by the end of this year.

Meanwhile, Teo said all state constituencies in Penang will have Digital Economy Centres (Pedi) by January next year.

She added that there are 911 Pedi nationwide, three of which are in Penang.          

“Our intention is to establish a Pedi in every constituency in Penang. There will be about 38 Pedi. We are in the tendering process and it is expected that all Pedi in Penang will start operating in February next year,” she said.

Pedi is her ministry’s main initiative for the local community in fostering positive use of the internet and opening up opportunities for all to pioneer businesses online or through e-commerce platforms. – Bernama, July 23, 2023.