The Future of 5G in Malaysia: DNB’s New Business Plan and the Rise of a Dual-Network Ecosystem
Overview of the 5G Landscape in Malaysia
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has requested Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) to submit a new detailed business plan for the 5G dual-network landscape. This plan will be crucial in ensuring DNB’s sustainability as a 5G network provider and will outline strategies for service continuity and the expansion of the 5G network.
DNB’s Current Situation and Shareholders
DNB was set up in 2021 as a special purpose vehicle to develop the country’s 5G network and offer wholesale 5G services to private companies. The company has several shareholders consisting of service provider companies with extensive experience in the telecommunications industry, and their expertise will contribute to DNB’s ability to continue competing in Malaysia’s 5G dual-network ecosystem.
U Mobile’s Selection and the Future of the 5G Network
In November 2023, the MCMC announced that U Mobile, chaired by tycoon Vincent Tan, had been selected to implement the country’s second 5G network. The company’s selection was based on factors such as its business and technical planning, complaints and customer satisfaction record, as well as its performance in implementing other infrastructure initiatives. An award notice is expected to be issued to U Mobile in the near future subject to the approval of its detailed business plan.
The Government’s Role in the 5G Ecosystem
The government agreed to allow a second 5G network after shares in the state-owned DNB were sold to Maxis, CelcomDigi, U Mobile, and YTL Communications. The government retains a 30% stake and a special share in DNB for a designated period. The shift to a dual 5G model is expected to take place once DNB attains 80% coverage in populated areas, which was achieved in December 2023.
Conclusion
The future of 5G in Malaysia is an exciting and rapidly evolving landscape. With the request for a new detailed business plan from DNB, the company will be able to outline its strategies for service continuity and the expansion of the 5G network. The rise of a dual-network ecosystem will bring new opportunities for competition and innovation in the telecommunications industry.
FAQs
- What is the purpose of DNB’s new detailed business plan?
The new detailed business plan will outline DNB’s strategies for service continuity and the expansion of the 5G network, as well as the company’s financial and revenue plans. - Who are the shareholders of DNB?
DNB has several shareholders consisting of service provider companies with extensive experience in the telecommunications industry. - What is the timeline for the implementation of the second 5G network?
The implementation of the second 5G network is expected to take place once DNB attains 80% coverage in populated areas, which was achieved in December 2023. - Who was selected to implement the country’s second 5G network?
U Mobile, chaired by tycoon Vincent Tan, was selected to implement the country’s second 5G network.