5G to boost tourism in Langkawi
O First digitalised island in Malaysia to become wireless hub with faster internet connectivity
LANGKAWI: Tourism here will get a boost after Langkawi was earmarked as Malaysia’s first digitalised island once the 5G network bandwidth connection is activated later this year.
It will allow tourists faster internet connection, boost new digitalised ventures and provide higher quality in healthcare and farming.
Seven telecommunication providers are collaborating with five federal ministries (Agriculture and Agro-Based Industries, Health, Housing and Local Government, Transport and Water, Land and Natural Resources) to provide an integrated 5G network with faster connection.
Telekom Malaysia Berhad chief strategy officer Tengku Muneer Tengku Muzani said the island can become a smart town with digitalised applications as well as a wireless hub.
The 5G realisation comes in five vertical uptakes, namely in local government, healthcare, tourism, education and farming, said Tengku Muneer.
The local government will see the installation of integrated CCTVs powered by 5G that can provide in-depth surveillance in the movement of traffic, vehicles and people.
“It can even locate errant drivers and missing persons if data is provided and shared in real time,” said Tengku Muneer.
He said drones can be used to patrol the skies, while digital applications can be applied to enhance services at the port and airport.
The surveillance will also aid the local council and police in providing better security and safety, while monitoring pollution and littering.
Healthcare is another area that will see Langkawi transformed, where quality streaming will allow faster video conferencing. This will enable general practitioners and specialists to offer their expertise to patients.
In tourism, telcos such as U Mobile Sdn Bhd and Digi Telecommunications Bhd are working with stakeholders here to develop virtual tourism by offering various products such as eco-tourism ventures like virtual reality goggles that offer a 3-D experience.
As for education, schools would be equipped with online applications to enhance the learning experience as students communicate with lecturers from distant locations to tap their knowledge.