KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 2 — The access agreement by five mobile network operators will accelerate Malaysia’s 5G implementation.

Caretaker finance minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz said the agreement signed by the mobile network operators (MNO) and Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) on October 31 is an important achievement in implementing the country’s 5G vision to drive long-term digital economic development.

"With the participation of these five MNOs in the wholesale access provision by DNB, customers are expected to be able to receive the benefits of fast speed and more inclusive 5G connectivity at an affordable price.

"DNB is committed to accelerate the development of 5G networks and infrastructure,” Tengku Zafrul said in a statement today.

The 5G network now covers nearly 11 million people across Malaysia, equivalent to more than 33 per cent coverage in populated areas.

According to Tengku Zafrul, as of the end of August 2022, DNB remains on track to reach approximately 80 per cent coverage in populated areas by the end of 2024.

"The 5G network development cost is RM16.5 billion over 10 years, without any government financing or guarantee other than equity injection worth RM500 million to start the operation of the DNB company.

"With the implementation of the world’s first single 5G wholesale network by DNB, MNOs in the Malaysian telecommunications industry have the potential to save approximately RM30 billion in terms of infrastructure construction costs within 10 years next year.

"This will allow the MNO to focus on the improvement of 4G services and the provision of 5G services innovative and high value for the benefit of people and businesses,” he said.

He added that the creation of 5G services will also increase productivity, efficiency and innovation which is expected to create 750,000 high-skilled and generating jobs RM650 billion for gross domestic product cumulatively until 2030.