5G network at 62.1% coverage at end-May: Fahmi

KUALA LUMPUR – The country’s 5G network has reached 62.1% coverage of populated areas (CoPA) as of May 31, 2023, involving 5,058 sites, said Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil.

He said this marked a 2.6% increase from the 59.5% CoPA recorded in April.

“The government aims to ensure that by the end of this year, we will reach the 80% CoPA target,” he said, adding that all mobile network operators in the country have committed to achieving the target.

In his keynote address at the Invest Malaysia Series 2 conference here today, Fahmi said that the MNOs are committed to the 5G roll-out plans, participating in discussions through the task force set up last month.

“What will be of particular interest to all is the shift to the dual wholesale network, which will be spearheaded by private entities,” he said.

The minister also emphasised the importance of cooperation between the private and public spheres, noting that the nation’s approach to the digital economy focuses on outcomes that benefit the people, businesses, and the government. 

“This includes ensuring a 30% improvement in productivity and increasing adoption of e-commerce among micro, small and medium entrepreneurs,” he said.

Fahmi added that the digital economy is expected to contribute 25.5% to the country’s gross domestic product by 2025 and create 500,000 jobs.

Themed “Digital Malaysia: Tomorrow’s Infrastructure, Today”, the one-day conference seeks to provide deeper insights into Malaysia’s reimagined 5G model while emphasising the importance of private sector participation and partnership. – Bernama, June 7, 2023