KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysia has achieved the top global ranking for 5G consistency score, standing at an impressive 97.29%, as reported by Ookla – a renowned global leader in network intelligence and connectivity insights.
In his keynote address at the opening of the Malaysian Pavilion at the Mobile World Congress Barcelona 2024 (MWC2024) in Spain, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said this not only underscores Malaysia’s dedication to technological advancement, but also reflects the collaborative efforts of the telecommunications industry, regulatory bodies, and government agencies in establishing a robust and reliable 5G infrastructure.
“It is a moment of triumph that reaffirms Malaysia’s position as a leading player in the global digital landscape.
“The significance of this achievement cannot be overstated. In today’s hyper-connected world, where seamless connectivity is the lifeblood of innovation and progress, a reliable 5G network is indispensable.
“It serves as the backbone for transformative technologies such as the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality – paving the way for groundbreaking applications and services that will redefine the way we live, work, and interact,” he said.
Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din was also present at the MWC2024.
The consistency score is an Ookla-specific methodology of measuring speeds where it has to satisfy both download and upload speed criteria of 25 Mbps and 3 Mbps respectively.
For Malaysia, Fahmi said being ranked number one in the 5G consistency score is not just a matter of boasting rights – it is about unlocking the full potential of this game-changing technology to drive economic growth, enhance social welfare, and foster a more inclusive society.
“With a robust 5G infrastructure in place, we are poised to accelerate innovation across various sectors, from healthcare and education to manufacturing and agriculture, unlocking new opportunities and empowering businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals alike,” he said.
At the congress, Fahmi also spoke about the Maxis 5G-Advanced Technology Trial in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, which promises up to a 10-fold improvement in speed, connected devices, and latency compared to 5G.
“The showcase was organised to highlight the potential of 5G-advanced technology through next-generation connectivity and digital solutions, leveraging its ultra-high speeds, greater capacity for simultaneously connected devices, and ultra-reliable low latency.
“I wish to see more industry players pioneering innovative technologies that will help Malaysian enterprises move up the value chain through next-generation commercial and industrial solutions. This will position Malaysia as a front-runner in telecommunications globally,” he said.
As of 2023, access to fibre optics has been extended to 8.4 million premises in Malaysia, boasting an impressive average mobile broadband speed of 178.1 Mbps, Fahmi said.
“The internet coverage in populated areas has reached an outstanding 97.07%.
“However, our work is far from over. As we look to the future, we must remain committed to completing the remaining 3% coverage in populated areas, ensuring that every Malaysian has access to reliable and high-speed internet connectivity.
“One remarkable success story lies in our nation’s 5G rollout. Malaysia took a unique approach by establishing a special purpose vehicle to expedite the rollout process.
“As a result of this innovative strategy, we have achieved an impressive 80% coverage of populated areas in just about two years,” he added.
The MWC2024 is the largest annual gathering of the telecommunications industry organised by the international body, Groupe Speciale Mobile Association, with Barcelona selected as the host city for the congress that will gather more than 100,000 telecommunications industry players. – February 26, 2024