MUT Reinforces Utility Infrastructure Security To Tackle Vandalism
KUCHING: The Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak (MUT) is strengthening security measures for utility and telecommunication infrastructure to tackle increasingly worrying vandalism activities in the region.
Its Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said his ministry, through the Anti-Vandalism Committee, has implemented various initiatives including the installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras, 24-hour security monitoring and facial recognition technology at SMART towers.
According to him, these measures aim to detect intrusions and suspicious activities within the vicinity of utility and telecommunication facilities.
“The Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) is reinforcing security at several telecommunication sites that frequently become targets for vandalism and theft by upgrading existing perimeter fencing and replacing doors with more robust galvanised iron types.
“In addition, SMART towers are equipped with CCTV systems, 24-hour security monitoring utilising facial recognition technology and automatic warning sirens in the event of an intrusion or suspicious activity,” he said.
He said this during his ministerial winding-up session at the 19th Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) sitting on Monday.
Dato Sri Julaihi further stressed that vandalism activities involving the theft and damage of cables, transformers, electricity poles and water pipes cannot be taken lightly as they can disrupt electricity, water and telecommunication services including the internet.
He pointed out that although utility cables may appear small, intentionally cutting them can have a massive impact on utility services and cause significant inconvenience to residents.
“This situation also results in agencies under my ministry's purview receiving an onslaught of complaints from the public, including from elected representatives.
"For those who do not understand the situation, they will simply blame the government on social media without verification,” he added.
Therefore, he urged the public to report any suspicious activities near utility and telecommunication facilities to the authorities. -UKASnews
