Malaysia has achieved a remarkable success in the field of 5G technology, ranking third in the world in terms of data download speeds, according to a study by Ookla Research. With a speed of 485.24 Mbps in the third quarter of 2023, Malaysia has demonstrated the effectiveness of its unconventional 5G implementation strategy. This achievement is noteworthy considering that the country introduced a nationwide 5G network less than two years ago.
While the United Arab Emirates and South Korea have become leaders in 5G performance, Malaysia’s presence in the top three signifies the progress the country has made in this field. Other countries that made it to the top ten list include Qatar, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Kuwait, Macau, Singapore, and India. The ranking has seen dynamic changes, with Bulgaria, Saudi Arabia, New Zealand, and Bahrain slipping behind.
Malaysia’s success can be attributed to its decision to introduce the 5G network through Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB), a special purpose company. DNB aimed to own and manage the entire communication and infrastructure of 5G, providing efficient and affordable high-quality connections, even in rural areas with low return on investment. However, the government recently decided to sell 100% of its stake in the RM 16 billion 5G project to five mobile network operators (MNOs).
This policy change marks a reversal of the Single Wholesale Network Model (SWM) implementation strategy, allowing private MNO operators to lead the future deployment of 5G. Critics of the SWM model, including the current Minister of Communications Fahmi Fadzil, pointed out the poor achievements of private MNO operators in deploying 4G without government intervention. It is worth noting, however, that the government plans to retain its special shares in DNB despite divesting its assets.
Malaysia’s success and the change in implementation strategy reflect the evolving nature of the telecommunications industry. As the country continues to develop its connectivity, the involvement of private MNO operators in 5G deployment is expected to play a crucial role in driving progress and innovation in the Malaysian telecommunications market.
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The source of the article is from the blog agogs.sk