Five SMART tower sites in Sarawak now have security walls after repeated theft and vandalism hit public utility infrastructure. [image: 1785202545637-review_smart.jpg] Image source: DayakDaily Sarawak Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Datuk Seri Julaihi Narawi said Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) has built perimeter walls at five SMART tower locations, including Sungai Rayah in Sarikei. The problem is not small. Each SMART telecommunications tower costs about RM2.5 million to build, while one protective wall costs more than RM100,000. Julaihi said the vandalism involves public assets such as electricity cables, fibre optic networks and utility infrastructure. Copper cable theft can disrupt electricity supply, telecommunications service and even water distribution. Why it matters Sarawak has been building SMART towers to improve connectivity, especially outside city areas. When these sites get damaged, the cost does not stop at repairs. It can also affect internet access and basic services for nearby communities. Julaihi said enforcement is still needed, but public awareness is just as important because the State cannot build expensive walls around every tower. Location: Sarawak, including Sungai Rayah, Sarikei Details: Five SMART tower sites fortified after repeated theft and vandalism; each tower costs around RM2.5 million, while one wall costs over RM100,000. Source: DayakDaily What do you think?

Samarahan Division’s RM150 million electricity upgrade is moving ahead, with 106 MVCC poles already installed. [image: 1784509494939-samarahan-electricity-resized.jpg] State Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said the state-funded project covers 124km of transmission line upgrades from Asajaya and Sadong Jaya across the Batang Sadong Bridge to Sebuyau, with another branch to Simunjan and Gedong. Why it matters The project is meant to improve electricity reliability and stability for residents and businesses in Samarahan Division. It also supports future development in the area. Another key part of the work is a 1.8km twin submarine cable under the Sadong River near Batang Sadong Bridge. Julaihi said the cable is being buried 1.5m below the riverbed and was almost fully installed as of Sunday morning. Location: Samarahan Division Details: RM150 million upgrade; 124km transmission lines; 1.8km submarine cable Source: The Borneo Post What do you think?