MY telcos set to agree on deal with govt for second 5G operator

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's administration and Malaysia's mobile network operators (MNO) are reportedly arriving to a deal that will pave the way for a second operator as the country plans to roll out its fifth generation (5G) wireless network. 

The deal will reportedly move along a plan that will see state-owned Digital Nasional BHD (DNB) operate alongside a second network.

The second operator is anonymously known as 'Entity B', though reports suggest that China's Huawei will emerge as the new technology partner.

Currently, the country's five MNOs are Maxis, CelcomDigi, U Mobile, YTL Communications and Telekom Malaysia. 

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Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil reportedly told reporters this week that a few details needed to be ironed out and that an agreement will be inked soon. 

He did not reveal a specific date for the signing but it could reportedlybe signed as early as 1 December. 

This comes as Minister Fahmi recently urged the use of AI to mitigate cybersecurity manpower shortages.

He also explained that while Malaysia’s digital economy is on track to contribute to more than 25.5% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product, its growth comes with an increased risk of cyber threats, in a statement seen by A+M.

Cyber security awareness in Malaysia needs to improve alongside nurturing skilled manpower in the area, he added.

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