KUALA LUMPUR: U Mobile, a major Malaysian mobile network operator, announced that it has reached 90% 5G coverage of populated areas (CoPA) nationwide through its ULTRA5G network, delivering on its July 2027 commitment by more than nine months ahead of schedule.
The milestone was announced at an event, held at The Grand Hyatt in Kuala Lumpur, and was officiated by Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil as well as Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.
Fahmi commended the rapid deployment, noting that U Mobile's achievement demonstrates strong execution in expanding high-speed digital infrastructure nationwide to benefit both consumers and enterprise sectors.
He added that while there will be much to be expected from U Mobile, and support from the Madani government will also be provided.
"It's going to be extremely exciting, not only with AI but with quantum encryption and post-quantum technology. I believe that we have more to learn from each other, and together, we can build a better place for all," said Fahmi.
The Malaysian telecommunications company began rolling out its network in July 2025 with two commitments, starting with the aim of achieving 80% CoPA within the first 12 months, followed by 90% CoPA by July 2027.
Instead, the company reached over 80% CoPA in March 2026, less than nine months after the rollout began, and more than three months ahead of its July 2026 deadline.
Reaching both milestones ahead of schedule fulfills the nationwide coverage commitments, thereby strengthening U Mobile's role in Malaysia’s dual 5G network model.
"Achieving 90% nationwide 5G coverage more than nine months ahead of schedule reflects the determination of the entire U Mobile team and the strong collaboration of our government, regulatory, technology and infrastructure partners," said U Mobile chief executive officer Wong Heang Tuck.
"We made a commitment to build a nationwide 5G network at speed and scale, and today, we are proud to have delivered on that promise ahead of schedule,” he added.
Wong said reaching the milestone was about more than achieving a “coverage target”, but also bringing quality digital connectivity closer to Malaysians and providing a stronger foundation for how people learn, work, communicate and access opportunities.
"With the nationwide network foundation now in place, our focus is to continue strengthening the ULTRA5G experience and helping businesses, communities and public services translate connectivity into meaningful value," concluded Wong.
In 2026, U Mobile was named Malaysia's best mobile network and fastest 5G network by Ookla, while Opensignal recognised the company for improvements across reliability, network quality, speed and 5G experience.
Earlier this year, U Mobile was recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records for the fastest 5G network rollout in Malaysia following its achievement of more than 80% CoPA in less than nine months.
With its nationwide coverage milestone achieved, U Mobile said in its statement that it will continue strengthening the reach and quality of ULTRA5G, including expanding its in-building coverage footprint.
Having fulfilled its first-year commitment for 5G in-building coverage, the telecommunications company has surpassed 250 in-building coverage sites nationwide.
The company's statement added that it will also continue advancing initiatives to help organisations harness technologies including 5G-Advanced and artificial intelligence-enabled solutions to support Malaysia's digital transformation.
