Fully committed to the 5G Dual Network model, ready to build Malaysia's second 5G network
PETALING JAYA, 20 June 2024 – CelcomDigi Berhad ("CelcomDigi") today announced that it is ready to complete the conditional Share Subscription Agreement ("SSA") and commence the process to build Malaysia's second 5G network. In a Bursa Malaysia filing, the Company said all conditions precedent in the conditional SSA it entered into with the Minister of Finance (Incorporated) ("MoF Inc.") and Digital Nasional Berhad ("DNB") on 1 December 2023 have been met. This announcement confirms CelcomDigi's decision to be a shareholder in DNB.
The Ministry of Communications, Malaysia had announced earlier that the selection process to build and operate Malaysia's second 5G network will commence upon the completion of the SSA(s). In achieving this milestone, CelcomDigi is prepared to play a leading role in shaping Malaysia's 5G landscape and continue its firm commitment to deliver 5G services to the nation, in full support of the Government's vision for the 5G Dual Network ("5G DN") transition.
"We are committed to making 5G a success in Malaysia. We have been driving 5G adoption among consumers with our best-value plans. We have also been working with multiple enterprises on innovative 5G solutions, including most recently powering up the first-in-the-region 5G network on an offshore oil and gas platform. We have a proven track record and deep experience in rolling out networks in Malaysia. With our modernised, state-of-the-art 5G-ready and the country's largest 4G and 4G+ network, we believe we are in the best position to lead the development of the second 5G network for Malaysia, and to accelerate digital economic growth for the nation," said CelcomDigi CEO Datuk Idham Nawawi.
"We are fully supportive of the effective implementation of the 5G Dual Network model announced by the Government. We will work closely with the Government and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission ("MCMC") on the Dual Network Transition plan for the second 5G network, towards a fair, transparent and consultative process. We hope to have an outcome that equitably balances the economic and market impact, and that not only benefits the Government and industry but more importantly for Malaysian customers and businesses."
The company is ahead of schedule in its network integration and modernisation programme to build Malaysia's leading digital network, passing the 50% completion mark as at mid-June 2024. All key elements of CelcomDigi's modernised network are 5G-ready – RAN, core and transport – to be commissioned for a 5G and 5G-Advanced standalone network, potentially delivering one of the largest 5G networks in the region geared towards building Malaysia's digital society.
For more information, please refer to the related Bursa Announcement here.