CelcomDigi well-positioned for second phase of Malaysia's 5G development, says Axiata CEO

Axiata Group chief executive officer and managing director

KUALA LUMPUR: Axiata Group Bhd’s key associate company CelcomDigi Bhd is well-positioned to take part in the second phase development of 5G in Malaysia, said Axiata Group chief executive officer and managing director.

"We believe that CelcomDigi is well-positioned, given the size of its network, its modernisation efforts, its customer coverage, and its footprint.

"It has already submitted an application to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the process is ongoing,” he said during a press conference on Axiata Group's financial results for the first half (1H) of 2024 today.

Asked on the status of the proposal, Vivek said the government is expected to make an announcement soon.

"I may not be at liberty to provide all the details because we are one of the shareholders of CelcomDigi. I believe this question would be better addressed by CelcomDigi's management.

"However, we believe that the process is currently underway,” he said.

The government is currently evaluating telecommunications companies to select one for developing the country's second 5G network, with the tender process having closed on July 31 and a decision expected soon.

It has been reported that CelcomDigi, Maxis, and U Mobile have expressed interest in leading the development of the new 5G network.

Axiata Group today announced a net profit of RM194.93 million for 1H 2024, reversing the net loss of RM502.36 million incurred in last year’s corresponding period.

Meanwhile, revenue grew 7.8 per cent year-on-year to RM11.42 billion. - Bernama