MCMC: More 4G sites, discontinuation of 3G led to drop in network-related complaints

However, as not all consumers are using devices that support 4G VoLTE, efforts will be stepped up to help increase awareness, it stated. — Freepik.com

PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) received 40,863 network-related complaints from January to June, 66% lower than the same period last year.

In a briefing on the Jendela Q2 Report, MCMC chief operating officer Datuk Mohd Ali Hanafiah Mohd Yunus said 121,129 complaints were recorded in the first six months of last year.

The reduction in complaints is likely due to 3G being completely shut down and the spectrum allocated for 4G, the regulatory body said.

It also said that the completion of new 4G sites – 1,661 new 4G towers were built under Jendela Phase 1 – and upgrades in both urban and rural areas may have contributed to a better user experience.

The reopening of business sectors as the country transitions to the endemic phase has also allowed traffic patterns to return to normal, according to the report.

However, as not all consumers are using devices that support 4G VoLTE, efforts will be stepped up to help increase awareness, it stated.

According to MCMC, 4G coverage in populated areas stands at 95.82% as of June 30, inching closer towards its 96.9% target for Jendela Phase 1.

The report also revealed that 7.2 million premises have been equipped with fibre connectivity. It is targeting to hit 7.5 million premises by the end of this year.

As for mobile broadband, Mohd Ali Hanafiah said the average speed is now 47.04Mbps, with the median at 29.89Mbps. The target was 35Mbps for average speed.

As projects under Phase 1 are set to conclude by the end of the year, Mohd Ali Hanafiah said MCMC is prepared to address challenges brought about by the monsoon season.

“Addressing connectivity issues during difficult times such as the flood has been an ongoing effort and we’re no longer waiting until year-end,” he said, adding that ongoing efforts include site elevations.

Introduced in 2020, Jendela, or Jalinan Digital Negara, is a five-year national digital infrastructure plan to address issues related to fixed and mobile broadband coverage in Malaysia.

Once Phase 1 is completed, Jendela’s focus will be on the deployment of 5G.