Axiata to work with Altel on spectrum sharing

KUALA LUMPUR: Axiata Group Bhd's unit Celcom Axiata Bhd will work with Altel Communications Sdn Bhd on developing and managing shared infrastructure to provide communication services in Malaysia.

It said on Thursday Celcom and Altel would pool their respective 2x 10MHz bandwidth of the LTE2600 MHz spectrum into a common pooled spectrum for their exclusive use.

Their plan is to establish, operate and maintain a wireless business running on or using the Long Term Evolution technologies.

Altel, which was awarded the 2 x 20 MHz of the LTE2600 MHz spectrum band, would also consider Celcom's request to use Altel's remaining 2 x 10MHz spectrum band.

"The rationale of this collaboration is to establish a smart alliance that will benefit both Celcom and Altel in achieving their short and long term business goals," said Axiata.

It added the proposed collaboration was in line with the government's call for telecommunication companies/mobile operators to join forces to accelerate broadband penetration in the country and enhance the digital lifestyle of Malaysians.

"In the proposed collaboration, the parties aim to maximise the usage of the allocated spectrum with the view to provide the best broadband speed in the market," it said.