KUALA LUMPUR, August 26 — Four major mobile network operators (MNOs) have entered the race to build Malaysia’s second 5G network, according to Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil. The contenders—CelcomDigi Bhd., Maxis Bhd., Telekom Malaysia Bhd., and U Mobile Sdn. Bhd.—submitted their bids to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) by the July 31 deadline.
This bidding process follows Malaysia’s policy shift from a Single Wholesale Network to a Dual Network model, aimed at enhancing network competition and reducing monopoly elements. Fahmi Fadzil emphasized that he will not interfere in the tender process and has entrusted the MCMC with managing the bids. The Minister anticipates a decision soon and hopes it will be finalized and announced within the year.
The successful bidder will receive spectrum blocks for both 700MHz and 3.5GHz, pivotal for expanding Malaysia’s 5G infrastructure. The second 5G network is expected to bolster network redundancy and competition, with DNB continuing to operate and expand its existing 5G services alongside the new network.
