CYBERJAYA, November 7 – In a major move to boost Malaysia’s telecommunications landscape, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has appointed U Mobile Sdn. Bhd. as the country’s second 5G network provider. The selection comes after a stringent evaluation process, with MCMC citing U Mobile’s robust business and technical plans, high customer satisfaction rates, and successful infrastructure initiatives, including the JENDELA Phase 1 and 4G Upgrading projects, as key factors in its decision.
The addition of a second 5G network aims to create a competitive market environment, providing Malaysians with better service options, competitive pricing, and broader coverage, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Under the Dual Network model, U Mobile’s network will complement the existing Single Wholesale Network (SWN) managed by Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), promoting a more diverse 5G landscape. This dual approach is expected to expedite 5G adoption, fostering innovation and economic progress through enhanced digital infrastructure.
To maintain high standards, MCMC will monitor U Mobile’s compliance with regulatory requirements and assess partnerships within the 5G ecosystem to ensure widespread benefits. This added regulatory oversight includes potential penalties for non-compliance, reinforcing MCMC’s commitment to quality and consumer satisfaction. U Mobile is permitted to collaborate with other ecosystem partners, subject to MCMC’s approval, to further broaden the reach and impact of the 5G network.
The establishment of this second 5G network represents a significant step toward flexible, inclusive, and high-speed digital connectivity. MCMC also acknowledged U Mobile’s current foreign shareholding, emphasizing that any changes must be reported to ensure regulatory transparency. This development not only encourages industry competition but also paves the way for affordable, high-speed connectivity across Malaysia, contributing to a resilient telecommunications sector equipped for future growth.
