Papua new Guinea ICT Minister Masiu Halts 5G Trials Amid Health Risk Debate

POST COURIER

COMMUNICATION and Information Technology minister Timothy Masiu has stopped bmobile and Huawei from progressing any further with the 5G trial.

Twelve days ago, a prelaunch for the trial was held on Dec 19 with a memorandum of understanding signed between bmobile and its strategic partner Huawei in which Masiu witnessed. Masiu in a statement last night said since the event, there has been a wide range of discussion and debate within the ICT community on the issues of 5G technology.

5G is the next generation of mobile wireless network technology that will augment and may eventually replace 2G/3G and 4G LTE technology. “New technology is always initially expensive, has certain high risks factors, but if comprehensively researched and understood well, it can be harnessed to have excellent applications and benefits for our people.”

He said the Department of Communication and Information Technology will administer a thorough research on 5G technology and this is to include potential health risks of 5G.

He said KTHL (Kumul Telikom Holdings Ltd) will be requested to work closely with the department to undertake comprehensive awareness to key stakeholders and the public on 5G technology to understand its proven benefits and risks.

Read more: https://postcourier.com.pg/ict-minister-masiu-halts-5g-trials-amid-health-risk-debate/

5G Awareness