GEORGE TOWN, August 5 – In a significant development for Malaysia’s digital economy, global 5G leader Ericsson has established its first 5G manufacturing facility in Southeast Asia, producing state-of-the-art 5G radio equipment in Penang. The move reflects Ericsson’s commitment to Malaysia’s growth and socioeconomic development and marks a milestone in the country’s journey towards becoming a regional hub for 5G technology production.
Ericsson’s investment in local manufacturing will not only create job opportunities but also foster skills transfer, driving knowledge growth in areas like manufacturing, product engineering, and equipment testing. The company’s decision to select Malaysia for its 5G manufacturing facility further reinforces the nation’s position as a recognized global leader in 5G connectivity, delivering an exceptional 5G experience for consumers and businesses. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Communications and Digital Minister YB Ahmad Fahmi bin Mohamed Fadzil praised Ericsson’s efforts in contributing to Malaysia’s digital economy.
He emphasized the government’s focus on developing the digital industry and driving economic participation through digital platforms and business models. Ericsson’s 5G radio equipment production in Malaysia includes industry-leading Massive MIMO antenna-integrated radios, showcasing the company’s commitment to delivering a secure, affordable, and world-class 5G network and customer experience for Malaysia. David Hägerbro, Head of Ericsson Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, expressed confidence in Malaysia’s potential as a regional leader in the semiconductor ecosystem.
The country’s 5G connectivity achievements have already been acknowledged globally, and with the addition of local 5G manufacturing capabilities, Malaysia is poised to accelerate its transformation into an inclusive, digitally-enabled, and technology-driven high-income nation. The 5G network, currently covering 64.7% of populated areas with over 5,200 sites nationwide, is on track to achieve 80% coverage by year-end. As reported by Opensignal and Ookla, Malaysia has emerged as a top performer in 5G connectivity, boasting fast and reliable networks and leading the median 5G download speed across Asia Pacific markets.
Ericsson’s investment in Malaysia aligns with the country’s sustainable digital ecosystem goals, enabling enhanced connectivity, speed, and reliability across various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, and transportation. The collaboration between Ericsson and Malaysia signifies a shared vision for a digitally empowered future, driving innovation, economic growth, and social progress. As the digital-first era unfolds, Malaysia’s strides in 5G technology production will propel the nation towards realizing its aspirations of becoming a leading player in the global digital economy, benefiting citizens, businesses, and industries alike.
