Malaysian mobile operator Maxis has finally launched 5G services.
The company switched on its 5G service today (August 15), after it agreed to join the Digital Nasional Berhad's (DNB) state-run 5G network last month.
Maxis has become the last of the country's major network operators to launch the service.
“We are excited to bring 5G plans to our customers following our shareholders’ approval at the EGM today, and the subsequent signing of the Access Agreement with DNB. Our plans offer attractive value for all segments, with a focus on affordability and adoption so that everyone can enjoy the benefits of 5G," said Maxis CEO Goh Seow.
Maxis initially agreed to the network last year before it, along with rival operator U Mobile, backed out of the plan.
U Mobile would later change its mind and sign up to the agreement along with Celcom Axiata, DiGi Malaysia, and Telekom Malaysia, while YTL Communications has also penned an agreement to take an equity share in the DNB's shared 5G network.
Maxis instead wanted further clarity, pushing for a review of the DNB's pricing terms as it was also seeking shareholders' approval before signing the deal.
The DNB is aiming to cover 80 percent of Malaysia's population by the end of next year.
The DNB, which was set up by the country's previous government, has seen its network plans heavily scrutinized by the country's newly appointed Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's administration over claims of transparency issues. This led to Ibrahim's administration reviewing the DNB's plan for a state-owned 5G network, with the DNB saying it was to be the sole 5G network in the country.
Ibrahim's administration instead wants to introduce a second 5G network to rival the DNB's and is reportedly planning to launch it next year. The government has not ruled out working with Chinese vendors such as Huawei or ZTE.
