What DNB’s ownership shift means for Malaysia’s 5G choices
FMT explains why Malaysia adopted two networks, what greater telco control could change and why businesses want certainty over their technology choices.
The Malaysian government's Ministry of Finance Incorporated is set to exit as the major shareholder of Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), with CelcomDigi, Maxis, and YTL Power expected to hold equal stakes in the 5G infrastructure and network provider. This change comes as Malaysia's 5G network gains renewed attention, with the debate now focusing on ownership shifts rather than financing or coverage.
The dual-network model, which initially aimed to foster competition and expand choice, involves DNB using Ericsson equipment and U Mobile running on Huawei and ZTE technology. Analysts argue that maintaining two distinct networks could provide Malaysia with a geopolitical advantage by accommodating investors with varying cybersecurity, procurement, and regulatory requirements.
However, the transition to a new ownership structure may raise concerns about potential supplier changes and the impact on technology choices for businesses.
Brief written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
