KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 18): U Mobile Sdn Bhd, the country's second 5G network operator, said on Monday it is targeting to roll out its newly launched Ultra 5G experience to more than 170 buildings nationwide within the first year and over 600 buildings within four years as part of a "multi-billion-ringgit investment plan".

Chief technology officer Woon Ooi Yuen said the rollout would focus on full in-building 5G coverage at commercial properties, including hospitals, airports, transportation hubs and shopping malls.

“We are looking at over 170 buildings in a year and more than 600 buildings in the next four years for 5G — our 5G is full building coverage. For example, at Berjaya Times Square, you can go anywhere — toilets, car parks — and still have full 5G, unless the building management or tenants restrict us from installing,” Woon told reporters at the launch of Ultra 5G here today.

U Mobile, which was appointed in November 2024 as the second 5G network operator by the government, said its network supports standalone 5G (SA) from day one, running on the 3.5GHz and 700MHz spectrum bands.

Currently, over 30% of U Mobile subscribers are already on 5G, according to Woon, and the company expects the figure to rise further by year-end. Ultra 5G will be made available to all U Mobile customers without requiring special packages.

He added that for enterprises, Ultra 5G will enable advanced applications such as extended reality (XR), robotics, smart cities and Industry 4.0 automation.

U Mobile has already installed equipment in more than 70 buildings, with Berjaya Times Square being the first live commercial launch. According to Woon, ongoing deployments include major airports such as KLIA, Kota Kinabalu International Airport, and Langkawi, with coverage expected to expand rapidly in the coming months.

He reiterates that the company targets 80% population coverage within one year and 90% within two years, including rural areas across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak. Woon, however, did not provide any specific figures when asked about the current population coverage since being appointed as the second 5G network operator in November.

“As the nation’s newest 5G network provider, U Mobile is focused on enabling digital transformation for consumers and businesses alike. Ultra 5G brings enhanced digital experiences, from ultra-reliable streaming and immersive gaming to high-quality video calls in crowded areas,” Woon said.