Gua tempurung: There are no stretches along the North-South Expressway (PLUS) in Perak currently experiencing complete telecommunications coverage disruptions or blind spots, said State Communications, Multimedia and NGO Committee chairman Mohd Azlan Helmi. He stated that this improvement follows the commencement of operations of a new telecommunications tower in the Gua Tempurung area a month ago.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Azlan highlighted that the Gua Tempurung area had previously been identified as a major location facing telecommunications coverage disruptions. This was particularly evident for users traveling through hilly stretches from the north and south. The coverage issue has been resolved through the collaboration of various entities, including the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), PLUS Malaysia Berhad, telecommunications service providers, and related agencies.

Mohd Azlan further explained that Gua Tempurung was designated as a hotspot for blind spot connectivity by the Perak State Telecommunications Coverage Issues Monitoring Committee, established in 2023. He also noted that apart from Gua Tempurung, the state government had previously addressed similar issues in the Menora Tunnel area.

He assured that there are no longer areas with zero connectivity, though some areas may still experience weak coverage due to terrain or obstacles. However, these areas continue to maintain telecommunications connections. The state government, alongside MCMC and service providers, is committed to monitoring coverage quality to adhere to standards and accommodate the growing number of highway users.

Efforts to enhance telecommunications coverage will persist, including at rest and service areas which often face congestion during the holiday season, as well as along the West Coast Expressway (WCE).