Having a strong and dependable 5G network is crucial for any country’s progress and development. It ensures fast and reliable connectivity, supports innovation and technological advancements, boosts economic growth, and enhances various sectors such as healthcare, education, and communication. This is why the government has tasked the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to keep an eye on the 5G rollout progress.
The Edge reports that the Prime Minister (PM) Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that the government is well aware of the unsatisfactory state of 4G services, including limited coverage and slow download and upload speeds.
To make sure it won’t happen again, the PM emphasised the need to strengthen the regulatory framework and role of the MCMC to ensure optimal coverage and quality for Malaysia’s 5G network.
Anwar stated that the MCMC’s regulatory framework and role will be further reinforced, allowing strict actions to be taken against any service provider failing to deliver satisfactory services. He emphasised that the government will not compromise on this matter, as the internet is considered a fundamental necessity for the people, akin to water and electricity.
Anwar mentioned that the MCMC has already initiated the process of reviewing and enhancing existing regulatory instruments, including revising the Quality of Service Mandatory Standards.
One notable amendment is adjusting the minimum speed of mobile broadband from the current 2.5 Mbps to align with the goals of the National Digital Network Plan Initiative (Jendela), which aims for an average mobile broadband speed of 100Mbps by 2025.
He also highlighted that the government’s decision to implement a dual wholesale network (DWN) for the 5G rollout, is to promotes healthy competition and is accompanied by a robust regulatory framework under the MCMC. This approach ensures the provision of quality 5G services at reasonable prices.
Additionally, he reiterated that the DWN model addresses concerns such as a single point of failure and enhances network resilience, thereby reducing security risks through the provision of a diverse and robust network infrastructure.
