BINTANGOR – The Minister for Utility and Telecommunication, YB Dato Sri Haji Julaihi Haji Narawi, conducted a strategic working visit to the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation’s (SDEC) SMART telecommunications tower site at Sungai Rayah. The inspection, held on 25 July 2026, focused on reviewing anti-vandalism protocols and assessing ongoing efforts to bolster the resilience of critical digital infrastructure in the region.
The visit underscores the state government’s zero-tolerance approach towards the sabotage of public utilities. As Sarawak continues to expand its connectivity footprint into rural and underserved areas, ensuring the physical security of these assets has become a paramount priority. Any disruption to these networks can have significant repercussions for local communities, businesses, and emergency services.
Accompanying the minister during the site inspection were key stakeholders, including representatives from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the Sarikei Resident Office, and the Meradong District Office. This multi-agency presence highlights the collaborative framework established to address infrastructure threats, combining regulatory oversight with local administrative support.
The urgency of these measures is driven by alarming statistics from the previous year. In 2025, Sarawak recorded a total of 726 cases of vandalism targeting telecommunications infrastructure. These malicious acts resulted in estimated financial losses amounting to RM8.99 million, representing a significant drain on resources intended for network expansion and maintenance.
The Sarikei Division was not immune to this trend, reporting 28 specific incidents of vandalism in 2025. These cases incurred estimated losses of RM314,534.42, affecting service reliability for residents in the district. The visit to Sungai Rayah serves as a direct response to these challenges, aiming to implement stronger deterrents and faster recovery mechanisms for such breaches.
During the tour, YB Dato Sri Julaihi examined the structural integrity of the SMART tower and the effectiveness of existing security installations. He engaged with technical staff to understand the vulnerabilities associated with remote sites and discussed potential enhancements, such as improved surveillance systems and community-based monitoring initiatives.
The minister emphasised that protecting telecommunications infrastructure is not solely the responsibility of service providers but requires active community participation. He encouraged local leaders and residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities near tower sites. Such grassroots involvement is crucial for creating a secure environment where digital infrastructure can thrive without fear of interference.
SDEC’s SMART towers are designed to provide high-speed connectivity to remote locations, bridging the digital divide between urban and rural Sarawak. However, their remote nature often makes them easy targets for vandals seeking copper wire or other valuable components. Strengthening these sites ensures that the benefits of digitalisation reach every corner of the state without interruption.
The collaboration with MCMC ensures that all security upgrades comply with national standards and best practices. Regulatory guidance helps standardise protection measures across different operators and regions, creating a unified front against infrastructure crime. This alignment is essential for maintaining the overall stability of the national communications network.
Local authorities, including the Sarikei Resident and Meradong District Offices, play a vital role in enforcement and coordination. Their involvement ensures that law enforcement agencies are alerted promptly to any incidents, facilitating quicker investigations and prosecutions. This integrated approach aims to increase the risk for perpetrators and reduce the incidence of repeat offences.
As Sarawak moves towards becoming a fully connected digital economy, the reliability of its telecommunications backbone is non-negotiable. The government’s investment in robust infrastructure must be matched by equally robust security measures. The visit to Sungai Rayah signals a renewed commitment to safeguarding these assets for the long term.
Community awareness campaigns are also expected to be intensified following this inspection. Educating the public on the importance of telecommunications infrastructure and the legal consequences of vandalism can help shift social attitudes. When communities value these assets, they become natural guardians of the network.
The financial impact of vandalism extends beyond immediate repair costs. Service disruptions can hinder economic activities, affect educational access, and compromise public safety communications. By addressing the root causes of vandalism, the state aims to minimise these broader societal impacts and ensure seamless digital services for all.
YB Dato Sri Julaihi reaffirmed the ministry’s dedication to maintaining uninterrupted connectivity. He stated that no effort would be spared in securing the network, viewing it as a critical component of Sarawak’s development agenda. The protection of digital infrastructure is synonymous with protecting the future opportunities of its people.
The insights gained from this visit will likely inform future policy decisions and infrastructure design. Lessons learned at Sungai Rayah may be applied to other vulnerable sites across the state, creating a more resilient network overall. Continuous improvement in security protocols is essential to stay ahead of evolving threats.
Ultimately, the success of Sarawak’s digital transformation depends on the integrity of its physical infrastructure. The joint efforts of SDEC, MCMC, local authorities, and the community form a strong shield against vandalism. This collective action ensures that the promise of connectivity remains a reality for every resident, regardless of their location.
