KUALA LUMPUR (Nov 20): The government has no objection to adopting technology from any country for the rollout of the second 5G network, provided it complies with technical and security standards, said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.

This includes adherence to the Communications and Multimedia (Technical Standards) Regulations 2000, which require equipment to meet standards for electrical safety, electromagnetic compatibility, interoperability, and radio frequency usage.

Additionally, communication network equipment must comply with security testing standards outlined by the Network Equipment Security Assurance Scheme (Nesas), Security Assurance Specifications (SCAS), or Common Criteria.

“The government also prioritises network diversity and redundancy, avoiding over-reliance on a single network or supplier,” Fahmi stated in a written parliamentary reply to Datuk Wan Saiful Wan Jan (Perikatan Nasional–Tasek Gelugor) on Tuesday (Nov 19).

Wan Saiful had inquired about the government’s plans for developing Malaysia’s second 5G network and addressing potential risks associated with using equipment from Chinese tech firms Huawei and ZTE.

On Nov 1, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) made a surprise announcement that U Mobile Sdn Bhd had been selected to lead the second 5G network.

Analysts have flagged concerns about the mobile network operator’s relatively smaller subscriber base and financial capacity compared to its rivals, noting that it would require a financially strong partner to join the initiative.

Notably, U Mobile had earlier in September, inked a separate memorandum of understanding  with Huawei and ZTE to explore and develop 5G use cases in Malaysia, focusing on vertical industries and the agriculture sector.

Addressing the selection of U Mobile to operate the second 5G network, Fahmi reiterated that the decision was made through a “beauty contest” process based on multiple factors, including business and technical plans, customer satisfaction, and contributions to infrastructure projects such as Jendela and 4G network upgrades.

He added that regulatory commitments set by the MCMC would be closely monitored, with enforcement actions taken against any non-compliance.

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