Malaysia’s oldest telecom provider Celcom signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Digi Telecommunications and Maxis to explore jointly deploy fibre backhaul and rollout fibre to base stations in the country, media reports said. The plan by the Malaysia telecom majors will help to enhance 4G connectivity nationwide.
Celcom is part of Axiata group, which is one of the largest wireless carriers in Malaysia. The three telcos seek to explore opportunities in fibre infrastructure development.
The fibre infrastructure rollout in Malaysia will improve 4G connectivity nationwide supporting the Malaysian government’s National Fiberisation and Connectivity Plan (NFCP). NFCP aims to enhance the broadband, reduce broadband prices and improve internet access.
The MoU is also expected to explore the best deployment practices for network enhancement in a cost-effective manner. Also, the deployment will help to prevent duplication of infrastructure building and expansion of Malaysia’s connectivity.
The partnership between the three telcom is significant for Malaysia’s 5G deployment. Celcom, Digi Telecommunications and Maxis will combine their knowledge and expertise in the development of their fibre infrastructure nationwide, media reports said. The infrastructure development will include designing, building, commissioning, operating and maintaining.
Albern Murty, CEO of Digi Telecommunications, told the media, “This MoU is an extension of our existing successful partnership with Celcom on fibre deployment, and we look forward to work with both parties to ensure we cater for better customer experience across the country.”
Recently, Celcom enabled Voice over LTE (VoLTE) on its 4G network for high-definition voice calls. This will ensure the phone remains on 4G even during a call. With that, the telco is moving closer to 5G readiness.