PUTRAJAYA: There is no need to review the selection of U Mobile Sdn Bhd to develop the second 5G network as it was conducted independently by a Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) technical team and unanimously agreed upon, says Fahmi Fadzil.
The Communications Minister said although the selection pool was small, with only three companies eligible for the endeavour, U Mobile “is just as qualified as the rest”.
“No (need for review). The selection of U Mobile was conducted independently by the technical team within the MCMC and unanimously agreed upon by the commission members.
“The decision-making process involved no administrative interference,” he told his weekly post-Cabinet press conference here yesterday.
Fahmi emphasised that the second 5G network is not a contract or licence.
He said the instrument used will be the 3.6GHz spectrum, also known as F2, for the development of the second 5G network.
Fahmi said no public funds are involved in establishing the new 5G network, pointing out that the management and governance aspects have so far proceeded with full transparency and without interference.
The minister, who is the government spokesman, revealed that three companies qualified for the bidding process – CelcomDigi, Maxis and U Mobile – all of whom met the required criteria.
“CelcomDigi will have 18,000 towers after its integration is completed. Maxis has 12,000 and U Mobile has 10,000 towers.
“The difference is minimal and all three are fully eligible to submit applications and be selected.
“MCMC decided on U Mobile and I respect its decision.”
Fahmi said MCMC’s comprehensive independent review included both financial and technical assessments.
He added that the regulatory body will next meet with U Mobile for discussions as the firm had expressed its readiness to collaborate with various strategic partners, including other mobile network operators.
On Nov 1, MCMC announced that the second 5G network in Malaysia will be implemented by U Mobile after a detailed technical and commercial evaluation.
Following this, queries were raised in Parliament on reasons behind U Mobile’s appointment.
Fahmi said the Cabinet is examining various issues involving government-linked companies and government-linked investment companies to improve governance and administration.
Besides governance and administrative matters, he said the focus is also on issues concerning rewards and bonuses.
Meanwhile, the minister announced that Malaysia has formally extended an invitation to China to attend next year’s Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council Summit.
He said this was revealed by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the Cabinet meeting yesterday, adding that the Prime Minister also provided an update on his visit to China, where he held discussions with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang.
Fahmi said the move underscores Malaysia’s sovereignty and commitment to trading with any nation wishing to do so.
“This is our policy and this positive relationship will undoubtedly have beneficial spillover effects on our Asean partners as well,” he said.
