Telcos welcome govt’s dual 5G network decision

Visitors walk past a 5G logo during the Mobile World Congress. / AFP PHOTO / Josep Lago

KUALA LUMPUR: Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) will work closely with the government and the industry to ensure the success of the implementation of the two-phased 5G services in the country.

Citing Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil’s announcement earlier today, TM said the government had decided to implement 5G over two phases, whereby in the first phase, 80 per cent of the service coverage would be provided by Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB), while in the second phase, the implementation would shift to two networks.

"TM supports the government’s decision to implement 5G over two phases. We look forward to continuing playing an active role in the 5G implementation, leveraging its nationwide fibre infrastructure, extensive digital platforms (data centres, edge nodes) and rollout experience,” it said.

Earlier today, Fahmi said the government had decided to implement a dual 5G network once the current rollout under DNB has reached 80 per cent of populated areas.

He said today’s Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim agreed that the 5G rollout under a single network would continue until the end of 2023, and the switch to the dual network model would be implemented based on terms which are consistent with global practices of offering multiple networks.

In a separate statement, CelcomDigi Bhd welcomed the government’s decision and said it recognised the need for the efficient rollout of 5G based on the new enhanced model.

"This would provide wide and comprehensive coverage, encourage adoption, and ensure affordability of 5G services for all Malaysians,” it said.

Similarly, U Mobile Sdn Bhd embraced the government’s decision to shift to dual 5G networks as early as January 2024, as it believed the move would increase efficiencies and encourage greater adoption for both consumers and enterprises.

"Apart from that, dual 5G networks will also heighten market competition, leading to better network infrastructure performance and raising customer service levels,” it said in a separate statement.

In a statement, Maxis Bhd said it was committed to working closely with the industry to accelerate 5G for the nation in line with the government’s digital ambitions.

"The company recognises the importance of efficiently rolling out 5G and the economic benefits it will bring to all Malaysians,” it said. - Bernama