Fahmi tells telcos: Rethink diesel gensets, embrace renewables for tower operations
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 28 — The government has called on telecommunications companies to reassess their reliance on di...
The Malaysian government has urged telecommunications firms to reconsider their dependence on diesel generator sets for powering approximately 60,000 telecom towers across the country, particularly in rural regions. Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil emphasized the need to gradually transition away from fossil fuels for maintaining tower operations, in alignment with the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR).
He highlighted the substantial diesel consumption by each tower monthly and the extensive number of towers nationwide. Fahmi stated that a diverse group of strategic partners from various sectors has been convened to explore the establishment of a collaboration framework and possible incentives to facilitate this energy transition.
During the Lestari: Sustainability Framework and Roadmap 2030 launch, Fahmi underscored that the telecommunications, broadcasting, postal, and courier sectors must balance technological advancement with sustainability, considering the environmental implications of their operations. The Lestari strategic framework aims to manage 15 million electronic devices by 2030, reduce electronic waste, and promote a circular economy through refurbishment and reuse of functional devices.
This initiative is projected to benefit five million people, especially vulnerable and low-income groups, by enhancing access to affordable technology. The framework was crafted through collaboration with 116 stakeholders from 47 organizations, focusing on Climate and Environmental Sustainability, Social Impact and Inclusivity, and Technology and Innovation.
Additionally, the Net Zero & Circularity Alliance (NZCA) was introduced as an industry collaboration platform to decrease carbon emissions and streamline e-waste collection. Fifteen organizations spanning different digital sectors, including CelcomDigi, Maxis, Telekom Malaysia, Astro, Media Prima, and Pos Malaysia, signed an agreement endorsing the Lestari initiative and the NZCA.
Written by urgent.news from Malay Mail's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
