23-4-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today reassured the nation that the questions surrounding the transparency of the country’s single wholesale 5G network operator, Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB), would be addressed next week.
“They will discuss. Next week they should resolve. DNB will hold a meeting next week to decide on the issue,” Anwar told reporters when queried about the matter after PKR’s 25th anniversary special convention.
DNB issued a statement yesterday refuting allegations of a lack of clarity in its internal operations, particularly concerning the awarding of the contract to Ericsson to develop the 5G infrastructure – estimated to have cost close to RM5 billion – and other arrangements with third parties over software procurement.
The company also rejected insinuations of any impropriety in its governance and procurement practices.
DNB’s response yesterday came in the wake of claims first reported by the Singapore-based news outlet Channel News Asia on Malaysia’s 5G rollout stalemate last Friday, which were subsequently picked up by local media outlets.
According to the news report, DNB and the telecommunications companies that had signed a share subscription agreement to take up a collective 70 per cent stake in Malaysia’s 5G network operator last year had subsequently failed to reach an agreement.
The report also raised concerns about the establishment of a second 5G network, which was promised after DNB achieved its 80 per cent 5G population coverage target almost four months ago.
Transparency Doubts to be Addressed
As the nation awaits clarity on the transparency issues surrounding DNB, industry experts have emphasised the importance of addressing these concerns promptly.
“Transparency and good governance are crucial for the successful implementation of any major infrastructure project, especially one as pivotal as the 5G network rollout,” said Dr. Faizal Mustapha, a telecommunications analyst at Universiti Malaya.
“Any lingering doubts or allegations of impropriety could undermine public confidence and hinder the adoption of this transformative technology,” he added.
The prime minister’s assurance that these matters will be addressed in the upcoming DNB meeting has been welcomed by stakeholders across the industry.
“We are hopeful that DNB will provide comprehensive explanations and address any transparency concerns raised by the media and industry players,” said Dato’ Siraj Ahmed Khan, President of the Malaysian Mobile Content Providers Association.
“A transparent and well-governed 5G network rollout is essential for fostering innovation, attracting investment, and ensuring that Malaysia remains competitive in the digital economy,” he added.
