As of 30 September, Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) has developed a total of 5,873 5G sites, resulting in a 70.2% coverage of populated areas.
Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil reported a record of 2.49 million 5G service subscriptions, equivalent to a 7.4% adoption rate, as reported by Bernama.
During a session in the Dewan Rakyat, he mentioned that six mobile service providers, namely CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, Telekom Malaysia, YTL Communications, and Yoodo, have introduced 5G commercial plans.
Fahmi explained that DNB is responsible for implementing the 5G network and aims to establish 7,509 5G sites nationwide.
He also noted that the RAHMAH 5G Package, launched on 31 August, garnered 50,991 subscriptions by the end of the previous month.
Highlighting the speed of 5G implementation in Malaysia, Fahmi compared it to the previous rollout of the 4G network. U Mobile constructed 2,000 towers in a year for 4G, whereas DNB deployed over 3,500 towers in the first year for 5G.
Fahmi pointed out that in many countries, including South Korea, 5G penetration has exceeded 95%, but consumer adoption rates remain below 50%.
He also highlighted the recent launch of the commercial 5G Private Network, with Petronas becoming the first company to utilise it, demonstrating the potential for companies to maximize 5G capabilities.
Fahmi hopes Budget 2024 will focus on 5G network development
Fahmi stated that the ministry has requested specific allocations in the 2024 Budget, with a primary focus on the development of the country’s 5G network.
He expressed that if this allocation receives approval, it will result in numerous benefits for Micro, Small, and Medium Industries (MSMEs) by enabling them to leverage technological advancements.
The minister stressed the significance of 5G implementation and its acceptance and utilisation by various stakeholders and industry players.
Fahmi expressed his hope that the allocation requested for 5G will be given high priority in the 2024 Budget discussions, underlining its crucial importance for the country’s future.
