Will Malaysia stick to a single 5G network or adopt dual networks?

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Malaysia to Decide on Single or Dual 5G Network Model This Friday

Malaysia's government is scheduled to make a pivotal decision this Friday regarding the future of its 5G network rollout. The choice lies between continuing with the existing Single Wholesale Network (SWN) model, operated by Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), or adopting a Dual Wholesale Network (DWN) approach, as proposed by major mobile network operators (MNOs). The SWN model, established with Ericsson as the infrastructure developer, has been in place since last year, with DNB functioning as a Finance Ministry unit.
Potential Delays and Rework Under a Dual Network Model

Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) has cautioned that a transition to a Dual Wholesale Network (DWN) would introduce considerable delays to the nationwide 5G implementation. Such a shift would necessitate a complete overhaul of strategic and management plans, requiring the renegotiation of critical supplier agreements, a reassessment of employee roles, and the arrangement of new financing. Furthermore, any existing customer relationships and pilot trials conducted under the SWN framework would be rendered invalid.
Spectrum Reassignment and Contractual Changes for DWN

Implementing a DWN would involve several complex logistical and contractual undertakings. Key among these would be the reassignment of 5G spectrum, the agreement on the structure and composition of two separate consortia to manage the networks, and the potential termination or reassignment of the existing contract with Ericsson. These processes are time-consuming and would be avoided by maintaining the current SWN structure.
Concerns Over Rollout Duration and Costs with DWN

DNB's assessment suggests that the concurrent rollout of two wholesale networks would extend the overall implementation timeline. Moreover, it is anticipated that the wholesale costs and charges associated with a DWN would likely be higher compared to a single network. While the technical differences in capacity, efficiency, and resilience between the models are considered minimal, the operational complexities of managing two parallel networks are projected to be more demanding.
Manpower Limitations and Infrastructure Challenges with DWN

A significant concern raised by DNB pertains to potential limitations in skilled manpower available for a DWN. Building two wholesale networks simultaneously would demand substantially more base station sites. Given a finite pool of skilled personnel, the development of a dual network system is inevitably expected to take longer. Additionally, a DWN would deploy double the number of 5G antennas, potentially exacerbating mast congestion and necessitating the construction of more new sites than would be required by DNB's SWN model, particularly in rural areas where existing mast infrastructure is less prevalent.

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Will Malaysia stick to a single 5G network or adopt dual networks?

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