DNB-Meta innovation lab to enhance voice and video connectivity on Meta’s platforms

Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), a special-purpose vehicle company owned by the finance ministry, is teaming up with Facebook’s parent company Meta to establish a joint innovation lab in Malaysia. 

The lab is said to be able to enhance voice and video connectivity on Meta’s platforms. The terms of the proposed collaboration are currently being finalised. The announcement was reportedly made at the Malaysia Pavilion during the Mobile World Congress 2025.

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According to local media reports, DNB said in a statement that the innovation lab will focus on driving advancements to improve the quality of experience for real-time communication (RTC) services on Meta’s social media and messaging platforms, leveraging on 5G. 

It said that the collaboration underscores the critical need to deliver seamless, high-quality voice and video connectivity to users. Meta owns social media and messaging platforms WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram.  

DNB further added that the lab’s key objectives include developing innovative solutions, enhancing network optimisation techniques to reduce latency and increase bitrate for smoother communication, as well as improving overall user experience for DNB 5G network subscribers. 

Meanwhile, Vinod S, Meta vice president of network engineering also said that the proposed collaboration highlights the potential for joint efforts to enhance user experience, and the company is looking forward to continuing its work with the connectivity ecosystem in Malaysia.  

This comes as DNB signed a memorandum of understanding with Ericsson, to speed up the adoption of 5G technologies in a bid to enhance Malaysia’s digital transformation initiatives.  

In January, the Malaysian government had ended DNB’s role as the country’s 5G single wholesale network, as it appointed U Mobile to carry out the second 5G network in a transition to a dual 5G network model. Following the revocation, the digital ministry announced that DNB had begun a corporate restructuring process, to update its business plans, funding strategy, operational plan and cost optimisation measures. 

The ministry added that DNB is actively collaborating with its telco shareholders and experienced industry consultants to ensure its sustainability and future success. It assured that the government remains committed to supporting DNB through its transition to ensure the success of both 5G networks under the new dual model.  
 
According to a New Straits Times report, the Malaysian communications and multimedia commission is expected to issue the official letter of award for U Mobile to begin the second 5G network rollout soon, as a detailed business plan from relevant stakeholders is being evaluated. U Mobile planned to deploy the second 5G network within 15 to 18 months.  

This comes on the back of Putrajaya's commitments to expand 5G and 4G coverage in the country, especially for rural areas to encourage progress and economic activity.

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