KUALA LUMPUR: Researchers have dismissed claims that 5G telecommunication structures threaten human health.
Roha Tukimin, a researcher at the Malaysian Nuclear Agency, said the radiofrequency-electromagnetic field (RF-EMF) emissions from 5G telco structures does not cause radiation carcinogens.
"RF has nothing to do with radioactivity," she said, stressing that RF-EMF was categorised as non-ionising radiation (NIR), meaning it would not lead to cancer.
Roha, in a media sharing session today, said the organisation has been collaborating with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) on continuous research on 5G EMF exposure in the country.
"RM-EMF exposure from the telco structure is far below the permissible exposure limit (PEL) and complied with the MCMC Mandatory Standard and International Guidelines (ICNIRP)," she said.
Roha said the PEL set for 3.5 gigahertz (GHz) is at 61 v/m, yet Kuala Lumpur recorded 1.72 v/m, Johor Bahru 0.12v/m, and Penang is at 0.08v/m.
"The total Electric Field measured for the study sites was below 10 per cent of the limit," she added.
Citing the World Health Organisation (WHO), Roha said current evidence does not confirm the existence of any health consequences from exposure to low levels of RF.
Also present at the event was MCMC Academy adviser Professor Emeritus Dr Tharek Abd Rahman, who said 5G was definitely safe for all.
He clarified that within the electromagnetic spectrum, everyday devices such as radios, microwaves, mobile phones, remote controls, and ultrasound instruments emit non-ionising radiation, which poses no threat to one's health.
"The same goes for our telco, whether it is 2G, 3G, 4G or even 5G," he said.
Tharek mentioned that sunlight, with its ultraviolet rays, can be more harmful to one's health than everyday devices.
"The radiation from the sun is a thousand times stronger than the radiation emitted by these devices," he said.
Tharek mentioned that it is crucial for all to understand that 5G is necessary for the nation's development and it is safe to roll out.
"The core intent for developing 5G has been to support industrial progress to suit different applications, such as conducting long-distance remote surgery, intelligent first-aid services, and truck platooning.
"It would also benefit mining, construction and even factory production," he said.