Malaysia’s telecommunications landscape is showing new developments. CelcomDigi has officially submitted a proposal to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to deploy a second 5G network in the country. This action aligns with Malaysia’s strategy to enhance its digital infrastructure.
According to CelcomDigi’s CEO, Datuk Idham Nawawi, “The country is in prime position to be a regional leader in both 5G and AI development. CelcomDigi’s proposal sets out to build the most advanced 5G network to realize this ambition and accelerate widespread adoption for consumers and enterprises. We have an opportunity to capitalize and build on the existing solid infrastructure, financial strength and robust ecosystem that we have invested in.”
Nawawi expressed confidence in the company’s readiness to deploy the new network. He highlighted CelcomDigi’s extensive 4G network infrastructure, which is now ready for 5G activation. The company plans to modernize over two-thirds of its network by the end of 2024. This modernization will enable them to deliver 5G and 5G-Advanced technology swiftly across their 18,000-site network.
Recently, CelcomDigi launched the AiX, an AI experience center in Malaysia. This facility aims to foster innovation in various sectors by integrating emerging technologies like 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), extended reality (XR), robotics, and analytics. The center provides practical solutions that are immediately deployable, supported by a global ecosystem of technology partners.
Malaysia’s current 5G landscape is dominated by Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), a state-run entity tasked with developing the nation’s 5G infrastructure. Four operators, including CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, and YTL, have secured a 16.3% stake each in DNB. However, Telekom Malaysia (TM) has yet to finalize its stake due to pending shareholder approvals.
The Malaysian government aims to enhance competition and innovation in the telecommunications sector by rolling out a dual 5G network. This shift is planned to occur once DNB achieves 80% 5G coverage in populated areas, a milestone reached in December 2023.
The Malaysian communications minister, Fahmi Fadzil, has directed the MCMC to begin identifying a suitable operator for this second 5G network. The competitive landscape is heating up, with several telcos expressing interest in participating in this significant development.
