Communication Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the government is expected to unveil the second 5G network next week, which he said can bring significant improvement in both service coverage and adoption rates.
In giving updates on the state of 5G rollout in the country, the minister noted the country’s 5G adoption rate has reached nearly 36 per cent as of mid-April, while the service coverage rate stood at 80.3 per cent in February. Adding this was a significant achievement considering the low adoption rate of only 12 to 15 per cent in November 2023.
“In just five to six months, we have successfully increased the rate from about 15 per cent to almost 36 per cent now. It is clear that many are reaping the benefits, particularly through the 5G packages available.
Incumbent 5G provider in the country Digital Nasional Berhad will see its position challenged when the second network service provider enters into the fray. The second network will be managed by MNOs, however the composition and funding mechanism is still unclear.
After a tumultuous week on unresolved issues pertaining to the country’s 5G rollout plan, it seems all parties have come to terms after Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim weighed in on the issue and instructed for resolution this week.
