KUALA LUMPUR (May 10): CelcomDigi Bhd has completed 44% of its nationwide network integration and modernisation programme as it modernised over 7,200 sites as at end-April, leading to improved download speeds of 20% to 26% and better signal strength of 13% to 16% in post-consolidation areas.

By the end of June this year, CelcomDigi expects to surpass the 50% completion mark in four states and reach 60% in three states. 

CelcomDigi's chief executive officer Datuk Idham Nawawi said the importance of this integrated and modernised network in driving their ambitions to be a digital growth engine for the nation, supporting the coexistence and evolution of 4G, 5G, and future technologies. 

He added that the company is working with strategic partners to trial 5.5G technologies and new use cases for enhanced digital experiences for Malaysian enterprises and consumers. 

Launched in June 2023, the company committed RM4 billion in capital expenditure for the integration-and-modernisation programme, aiming to build Malaysia’s leading digital network with 18,000 5G-ready sites. 

Currently, 86% of its end-state sites are 5G-ready. These modernisation effort includes not just 5G-ready sites but also ongoing transformation of its 5G core network to deliver 5.5G functionality and services like ultra-reliable and low-latency communications, massive machine-type communications, and enhanced mobile broadband.

At noon break on Friday, CelcomDigi shares were traded one sen or 0.2% higher to RM4.11, bringing the company a market capitalisation of RM48.22 billion