Malaysia can learn from the Norway government’s effort to strengthen the adoption of 5G networks and its technology among local industries, especially for the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said 5G usage in the Nordic country had reached 58 per cent of total telecommunication users since it was implemented in March 2020.
Meanwhile, Malaysia recorded almost 10.07 million 5G service subscriptions, representing an adoption rate of 29.9 per cent as of January 31.
The minister said key measures to boost the use of 5G technology in the industry include increasing awareness and implementing use cases, in addition to introducing incentives or solutions for certain industries.
“In Norway, they have started doing a 5G pilot project with the salmon fishing industry, and they also use 5G technology for salmon farming.
“In Malaysia, there are some high potential sectors such as the semiconductor and oleochemical industries, apart from the port and also the petroleum industry,” he said.
During the roundtable discussion, Norwegian government representatives led by Digitisation and Public Governance Ministry director Jarl Fjerdingby briefed attendees on Norway’s policy approaches towards building a digitalised society.
The meeting also discussed market competition and ecosystem collaboration as drivers for innovation on new technologies and solutions, developing demand-driven, commercial solutions for either enterprise or consumer segments, and encouraging safe, responsible and sustainable adoption of these technologies.
Commenting further on the roundtable discussion, Fahmi noted similarities and differences between Malaysia and Norway in their respective 5G journey.
“What we can take away from this roundtable session are some discussions with Norwegian regulatory bodies, which I will convey to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission.
“We want this relationship (with Norway) to continue so that the Norwegian experience can be translated into some of our plans,” he added.
