Mandatory for network facility providers to get prior approval before erecting any communications structures, says Juliahi

KUCHING, Jan 30  2026: Network Facility Providers (NFPs) must get the approval from the relevant authorities before erecting any communications structures in Sarawak, said Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications Julaihi Narawi.

Julaihi Narawi: As of January 2026, a total of 4,514 communications structures had been registered in Sarawak. 

He said Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) is tasked with regulating, monitoring, and enforcing compliance across the state’s communications and multimedia sector.

“This includes overseeing the erection, operation, and maintenance of communication structures to ensure alignment with technical, environmental, and safety standards.

“Proper compliance prevents potential operational complications and ensures sustainable and trusted infrastructure development,” he said.

Julaihi said this when officiating at the closing ceremony of the Regulatory, Compliance, and Enforcement Training Course, which involved 11 SMA staff in collaboration with the Sarawak Safety and Enforcement Unit (UKPS) at the Yayasan Sarawak Building here.

Julaihi said that as of January 2026, a total of 4,514 communications structures had been registered in Sarawak.

“I strongly encourage all NFPs to meet regulatory requirements, which is not only a legal obligation but a shared responsibility to ensure public safety, orderly development, and public confidence.

“With the legal framework in place, SMA has invested in the Regulatory, Compliance, and Enforcement Training programme to equip officers with the skills and ethical grounding needed for effective enforcement,” he said.

Julaihi also stressed that accredited SMA enforcement officers would be able to carry out their duties professionally while upholding integrity to a high standard.

Concurrent with the closing ceremony of the course, SMA also conducted an engagement session with NFPs relating to the Telecommunication Infrastructure Fees (TIF).

Julaihi said SMA has begun introducing the TIF from NFPs starting this month.

SMA general manager  Anderson Tiong Ing Heng said the primary objective of the Regulatory, Compliance, and Enforcement Training Course is to enhance participants’ understanding of proper enforcement procedures, including investigation techniques, evidence collection, and documentation processes.