Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) and TM have officially launched a Private 5G network at the PETRONAS LNG Complex in Bintulu, Sarawak, marking a significant step forward in connectivity and operational efficiency for the energy sector.
The inauguration was graced by several dignitaries, including Minister of Digital Gobind Singh Deo, Deputy Minister of Digital Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong, Sarawak Deputy Minister of Utilities and Telecommunications Datuk Liwan Lagang, and representatives from Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), Malaysia’s 5G network provider.
Following the introduction of Malaysia’s first Private 5G network at PETRONAS’ Regasification Terminal Sungai Udang (RGTSU) in 2022, the new Bintulu installation is now one of four PETRONAS sites equipped with this advanced technology.
The PETRONAS LNG Complex, one of the largest single-location liquefied natural gas (LNG) plants globally with a production capacity of 29.8 million tonnes per annum, is set to benefit significantly from the 5G network. This deployment is anticipated to boost productivity and enhance operational efficiency across critical production processes.
In his address, Gobind Singh Deo highlighted the transformative impact of 5G technology on the energy sector. He remarked, “5G is becoming increasingly crucial in the energy sector. It provides ultra-high-speed, low-latency communication between control hubs, production sites, and vessels, simplifying the complexities of operational activities. The adoption of 5G-enabled intelligent systems such as industrial IoT, drones, robotics, extended reality (XR), and artificial intelligence (AI) will improve operational efficiency and safety.
“Global energy companies are rapidly modernizing their operations, and I commend PETRONAS, TM, and DNB for spearheading the digitalization of Malaysia’s energy sector.”
PETRONAS Senior Vice President of LNG Assets, Abang Yusuf Abang Puteh, noted, “PETRONAS is at the forefront of technological advancement while adapting to the evolving energy landscape. The integration of 5G with IoT, AI, and automation will optimize workflows, enhance productivity through automated data collection, and improve safety across all levels.”
TM Group CEO Amar Huzaimi Md Deris added, “This private 5G deployment marks the next phase in TM and PETRONAS’ longstanding partnership to prepare for a sustainable future. Utilizing advanced technologies like AI, this Enterprise 5G application will deliver superior operational efficiencies with a secure, reliable connection, real-time monitoring, and analytics, as well as remote maintenance capabilities.
“This collaboration will further drive digital innovation and industry adoption, which are essential for future business resilience and align with TM’s goal of becoming a Digital Powerhouse by 2030.”
Looking ahead, PETRONAS and TM plan to explore further opportunities to revolutionize the energy sector, including the potential expansion of Private 5G networks to additional sites to enhance integration and efficiency.
