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MALAYSIA has formally launched its exploration into 5G Broadcast technology, marking a significant step towards redefining national broadcasting standards and establishing regional leadership in digital content delivery.
Speaking at the opening of the 5G Broadcast Conference in Putrajaya on Thursday, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil praised the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) for its role in conducting early test-bed simulations and trials.
“I am proud to share that Malaysia is now at the forefront within the ASEAN region in exploring 5G Broadcast technology,” said Fahmi, describing the initiative as a strategic leap towards digital broadcasting reform.
The Minister also welcomed speakers and delegates from across Europe and Southeast Asia, noting the value of international collaboration in accelerating innovation. “We deeply value the opportunity to learn from your experiences,” he said.
5G Broadcast enables television and radio services to be transmitted directly to mobile devices without relying on SIM cards, mobile data plans or Wi-Fi. It operates independently of mobile networks, instead using terrestrial free-to-air broadcasting infrastructure.
The technology, based on LTE standards, offers uninterrupted, high-definition content delivery to large audiences simultaneously—whether in urban areas or remote regions. It also plays a crucial role in public safety, allowing emergency alerts and warnings to be sent directly to phones in real time.
Live venues stand to benefit as well. Through ‘venue casting’, audiences at concerts or sporting events can select camera angles, view exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, and access real-time updates—without overwhelming mobile networks.
Despite its potential, the full deployment of 5G Broadcast is limited by hardware compatibility. Only a handful of device manufacturers have begun integrating chipsets capable of receiving 5G Broadcast signals.
While the technology is still undergoing trials globally, several European countries—including Germany, France, Italy and Austria—are actively testing its application. Malaysia is among the first in ASEAN to embark on this journey, with MCMC’s test-bed sessions focusing on broadcasting services, emergency alert systems, and enhanced live event broadcasting.
“These trials aim to assess both the technical and commercial viability of the technology in Malaysia’s broadcasting ecosystem,” Fahmi noted, adding that regulatory recommendations would follow based on the results.
He also stressed the potential of 5G Broadcast to improve spectrum efficiency through its one-to-many content delivery model, describing it as an “emerging technology capable of driving the digital broadcasting transformation of our nation.”
Calling for support from across government, industry, technology firms and content creators, Fahmi urged stakeholders to help move this agenda forward.
“This conference not only delves into the technical aspects of 5G Broadcast but marks a new chapter in cross-border and cross-industry collaboration,” he concluded. “May today’s discussions bring great benefit to our nation and its people.” - September 25, 2025