Tuesday, May 30, 2023

Consumers will benefit from dual 5G network, competitive prices

 

Communications and digital minister Fahmi Fadzil says the shift to a dual 5G network is to ensure the people receive the best possible service. (Reuters pic)

PETALING JAYA: The government’s decision to roll out a dual 5G network will benefit consumers by guaranteeing quality service and competitive pricing at wholesale level, says communications and digital minister Fahmi Fadzil.

He said users of both networks will not have to worry about speed or quality of service, regardless of which network they opt for.

On May 3, Fahmi said Putrajaya agreed to a second 5G service provider. However, he said the rollout of the second network will only take place once state-owned Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) achieves 80% coverage in populated areas.

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He said he expected the second network to begin operating as early as January.

Fahmi gave his assurance that subscribers of the second network will enjoy quality services, even while the network’s infrastructure is being built up.

This is because of a commercial agreement to be put in place between the operators of the two networks, with users of the second network receiving 5G coverage using the first network’s facilities.

“The construction of the new network will not negatively affect the speed or connectivity of 5G,” he said.

“As for pricing, it will not be more expensive at the wholesale level per gigabyte than what is being offered right now.”

Fahmi said the shift to a dual network was not simply due to Putrajaya’s desire to dismantle monopolies and encourage competition.

It was also an acknowledgement that the government has no commercial interests in the project and is only concerned with ensuring the people receive the best possible service, he said.

He said the task force formed to ensure DNB’s 5G network coverage reaches 80% in populated areas and a smooth transition to the dual network was proof that the government was committed to good governance and the interests of the people.

Fahmi said Putrajaya will not compromise on issues of national security, safety and sovereignty when it comes to the rollout of 5G. - FMT

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