MCMC Spectrum Allocation: No Cost To Consumers

Wire

MCMC Spectrum Allocation: No Cost To Consumers

Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) recently announced that the 2x5MHz of 900MHz and 2x20MHz of 1800MHz spectrum will be assigned to major telcos such as Digi, Celcom, U Mobile, and Maxis for a period of 15 years.

According to MCMC Chairman Dato’ Sri Dr Halim Shafie (pix), the agency intends to issue the spectrum assignment to all four players by August 2016 for full implementation by 1 July 2017. He added that the reason behind the selection of these major telcos is that they already have sufficient infrastructure to expand on.

He stressed the fee for the spectrum is currently being determined. Similar to the previous practice for the 3G spectrum, payments will be in phases, which will allow them to rollout services and not pass the cost on to consumers.

U Mobile confirmed the reallocation by MCMC and stated that it is fully supportive of MCMC’s intention to create a vibrant and more competitive market by allocating these spectrums. It believes that these allocations will enable U Mobile to further enhance its network quality and services, and “be better equipped to introduce affordable services to the rakyat for the ultimate mobile experience through greater speed and coverage.”

Digi, on the other hand, looked forward to this announcement, as it believes that the certainty on allocation and tenure of these two bands will allow for better investment planning and optimal network design. “With the improved spectrum portfolio for the 900MHz band, Digi looks forward to continue bringing quality high-speed internet to its 11.7 million customers and more nationwide,” said the telco in a statement.

Commenting further on the spectrum allocation, Dr Halim added: “The reallocation takes into account the development of the sector and the nation as a whole. Specifically, a high priority has been put on communications coverage, quality of service and affordability of services …. MCMC will also address the optimal usage of other relevant spectrum bands such as the 700MHz, 2300MHz, 2600MHz bands, etc. by the end of 2016,”

We here at PC.Com are excited for the future as announced by MCMC with telco companies taking heed of the regulator’s emphasis on coverage and quality of service. We eagerly wait for improved services from the telco in the future.