Trust, not just coverage, is Malaysia’s next 5G challenge

Malaysia's 5G networks face a new challenge beyond just coverage and capacity: building trust. As Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) expands its network with a new 3.3-3.4 GHz spectrum, analyst Jamil Ghani warns that the shift towards advanced applications like network slicing, private 5G and industrial use requires a "trusted" network.

While Malaysia already has the infrastructure for network slicing and AI-driven capabilities, the focus must move towards supply-chain security, vendor dependency, software continuity, data governance and maintaining services during disruptions. Multinational companies need assurance not only of security but also the integrity of the broader technology ecosystem and supply chains, as geopolitical tensions could impact access to equipment and support.

Malaysia currently operates two parallel 5G networks using Ericsson technology and Huawei/ZTE equipment. Jamil suggests that maintaining this technological diversity provides companies with predictability and optionality, as geopolitical tensions might otherwise disrupt operations or compliance. He argues that this technological diversity offers strategic value, allowing businesses access to different technology ecosystems without Malaysia aligning with a specific bloc.

Jamil dismisses the idea that two distinct technology ecosystems would cause duplication, stating that the distinction matters most at active layers of the network. While some passive infrastructure could be shared, the objective is genuine technological choice, not unnecessary duplication. Malaysia could benefit from the competition and resilience between the two networks, but Jamil warns that technological convergence could reduce diversification.

He advises preserving diversity at critical layers while maintaining interoperability and cost efficiency, emphasizing that strategic autonomy lies in Malaysia's ability to choose and adapt.