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THE Ministry of Communications and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) have reported an increase in theft and vandalism at telecommunications towers in Sarawak, with Mas Gading particularly affected, prompting reinforced security measures under the JENDELA Phase 2 initiative.
In a parliamentary session on Tuesday, Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching disclosed that in 2024, Sarawak recorded three cases of tower theft and 1,116 cases of vandalism, resulting in estimated losses of RM9.32 million. Mas Gading alone accounted for three thefts and 24 vandalism cases, totalling approximately RM110,464 in damages.
For 2025, up to the second quarter, the state has seen 33 thefts and 334 vandalism incidents, with total losses reaching RM3.48 million. Mas Gading recorded four thefts and ten vandalism cases, amounting to RM74,341 in damages.
“The ministry, together with service providers, continuously collaborates with enforcement agencies and local communities to reduce the risk of theft and vandalism at communication towers and to raise public awareness on these issues,” she said.
To enhance tower security under the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA), service providers have implemented hardening measures at high-risk sites.
These include the installation of metal trunking to protect copper cables, additional locks and fencing around equipment cabinets, and CCTV and alarm systems in vulnerable areas.
Sensor devices have also been installed to alert providers in the event of tampering or damage to tower transmission systems.
“MCMC and industry players are also planning integrated operations with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) through visits to commercial premises and collection points for scrap materials, which may be used to dispose of stolen copper cables, batteries, and electronic equipment,” she addedadded.