[ad_1]
Once a forerunner in the 5G race, Malaysia’s rollout for next-generation mobile technology has been delayed after the management change. The initial plan to implement 5G services for the third quarter of 2020 has been put on the back burner, as the new government has changed its focus on strengthening existing 4G networks under the JENDELA plan.
Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah had told Parliament yesterday that the 5G rollout in Malaysia will take place towards the end of 2022 or early 2023 after achieving specific connectivity targets. The implementation will depend on the preparation of our communications infrastructure.
He said there is no point in having 5G in select areas when rural areas are still struggling to get 4G. Other factors to consider include user adoption, regulation, consumer charges, and ways to minimize the digital divide. He added that other things to consider is industry readiness, as 70% of 5G use will come from industries, while the remaining 30% will come from consumers.
The minister emphasized that an orderly and well-planned implementation of 5G is more important than following the hype of 5G providers with a hasty implementation. Under the JENDELA plan, the government aims to increase 4G population coverage from 91.8% to 96.9% in phase 1, while increasing fixed broadband speeds from 25 Mbps to 35 Mbps. In addition, Malaysia also has The objective is to increase the number of premises with gigabit connectivity to 7.5 million.
The JENDELA plan is described as a renewal of the NFCP and continues to prioritize existing projects that include the construction and improvement of mobile towers in rural areas, especially in eastern Malaysia. Telecommunications companies will have to improve their existing 4G coverage by fiberizing towers and optimizing spectrum use. Malaysia is also aiming to shut down 3G by the end of 2021 to free up more spectrum for 4G use.
To address areas with poor connectivity, a JENDELA map will be introduced to provide a comprehensive view of the current digital infrastructure. The publicly accessible map will provide an overview of all services available for your area. If a broadband service is not available, a request can be submitted and it will be sent to the telcos for further planning and action.
In terms of 5G devices, most of the smartphones released this year, including the new iPhone 12, come with 5G support. Over time, we should see more 5G phones on the market as 5G chipsets are now being offered at lower prices.
The 5G delay in Malaysia could affect local industries as it is considered an enabler of IR4.0. 5G’s ability to support more devices with low latency can unlock new opportunities and applications for manufacturing, agriculture, smart living, education, healthcare, and more.
Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Thailand is the first ASEAN country to implement 5G this year. This is followed by Singapore several months later. If you want to experience 5G in Malaysia, the only option right now is to try U Mobile’s 5G consumer test network in Berjaya Times Square.
[ SOURCE, VIA ]