Fahmi: Decision within weeks on 'extra charges' for 5G

The Communications and Digital Ministry will discuss with mobile network operators (MNO) to address the issue of extra fees for 5G subscriptions, said its minister Fahmi Fadzil.

He said there will be some updates within the next few weeks.

“The prime minister and investment, trade and industry minister have also raised the issue.

“So, my deputy secretary-general has engaged with the Malaysian Communication and Multimedia Commission and the MNOs on this.

“I believe that within the next few weeks, there will be some updates on this matter,” he told reporters after attending the Petronas’ first commercial 5G Private Network today officiated by Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof.

Fahmi said the ministry is also looking into suggestions for the MNOs to implement an opt-out approach instead of an opt-in for the consumers transitioning to 5G.

Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil

“The request is for not to be an additional charge for anyone to take up 5G. Just like how we migrated with something using 4G without having to opt in. One of the suggestions that the ministry has to look forward to is rather than having an opt-in, we can opt-out,” he said.

Fahmi added that only about seven million out of 45 million mobile user accounts in Malaysia are equipped with 5G-ready devices.

He said this has deprived them of using and enjoying the 5G network even though it was already available in their areas.

“So, that’s why programmes such as 5G Rahmah would be helpful, particularly for the B40 to purchase, procure 5G devices so that they can use the 5G (network),” he said.

The 5G Rahmah Package, launched in August by Fahmi, is offered to all Malaysians from Aug 31 until December this year. It offers a device bundle data plan, involving a smartphone priced at no more than RM240, along with a postpaid plan as low as RM60 per month with minimum data of 60GB.

In line with the Madani Economy framework, Fahmi had also announced the 5G Rahmah package, offered to the first 100,000 customers from the B40 group, who will be eligible to receive an RM120 subsidy for the smartphone.

Earlier, Fadillah said as of September 2023, Malaysia's 5G network coverage in populated areas stands at 70.2 percent, with 5G subscriptions totalling 2.49 million, translating to a 7.4 percent penetration rate.

- Bernama