KUALA LUMPUR – Former Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin is of the view that the single wholesale network (SWN) model for Malaysia’s 5G rollout will ensure faster speeds, wider coverage and lower prices for Malaysians.
Given his involvement in various discussions to pursue the SWN model, the Pagoh MP expressed disappointment over the differing views by telecommunications companies, which has caused its implementation to be halted.
“This has caused efforts to share networks, save costs and launch the 5G network not to happen as planned,” Muhyiddin said.
He added, it was initially planned by the government to set up Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB), a special purpose vehicle owned by the government to offer the 5G network wholesale throughout the country.
Meanwhile, returns to DNB would be based on an affordable income model to ensure that 5G service charges to consumers are low.
Muhyiddin emphasised that the SWN implementation is important to ensure that 5G services is affordable to the masses in the future.
This, he said, among other things, is due to the fact that DNB is subject to the oversight of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
“Access to the network will be offered to all telecommunications companies in an open and fair manner, thus issues concerning prices and competition can be controlled,” Muhyiddin said.
Additionally, he pointed out that DNB through a request for proposal for the 5G radio access network, saw Ericsson (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd appointed as the network equipment provider.
This tender process, Muhyiddin said, was implemented after negotiating with telecommunications companies.
“The interests of Bumiputera contractors will be prioritised in the 5G project through DNB.
“This is because one of the conditions for the 5G project is to benefit more than 60% of Bumiputera contractors in the next 10 years,” he added.
Should Putrajaya reconsider this SWN model at the eleventh hour, Muhyiddin warned that the government would have to face various issues such as investors losing confidence in the country.
Muhyiddin also said that any changes to the SWN model would also disrupt the creation of 148,000 jobs.
“The SWN model has advantages in implementing the 5G network swiftly, cheaply, with good quality.
“I hope the government will consider this when determining the most suitable implementation model for the people, including the ability for everyone to enjoy 5G services at a low cost,” the statement added. – The Vibes, December 11, 2021
