The Government of Malaysia, through the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), along with CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, Telekom Malaysia, and YTL Communications has established a platform to develop guidelines for network and infrastructure sharing. This is crucial for enhancing deployment efficiency, reducing capital and operational costs, and minimising environmental impacts. In the past, the host was responsible for the entire cost associated with the site, encompassing both CAPEX and OPEX. However, a portion of these costs can now be distributed among participating parties through either passive or active cost sharing arrangements. In some instances, all associated costs can be equally shared. This strategic approach to cost sharing can reduce expenses by as much as 80% compared to the original costs incurred without such collaboration.Besides the cost saving, this initiative also contributes towards:1. Resource optimisation by reducing redundant infrastructure deployment, the MNOs minimise environmental impact and lower carbon footprints associated with telecommunications expansion.2. Bridging the internet connectivity to ensure that no community is left behind in accessing excellent broadband services.3. Economic resilience via a shared network that fosters a competitive yet collaborative market environment, driving innovation while ensuring affordability for end users.4. Promote quality services and coverage.This guideline serves as a helpful resource to foster effective collaboration among MNOs. By coming together to share resources, they can achieve better outcomes, especially when it comes to enhancing 4G coverage in underserved areas like rural and remote regions. In these places, building individual networks may not be economically feasible for operators. Through this sharing initiative, MNOs not only expand their coverage but also ensure they stay competitive with others and provide consistent service quality across the nation.
https://mcmc.bernama.com/news.php?id=2387310
Ongoing
June 2023
Not set
This initiative is replicable globally, as it addresses universal challenges in expanding telecommunications infrastructure, particularly in underserved and remote areas. By promoting network and infrastructure sharing, it enables efficient use of resources while reducing costs, which can be applied in different countries with similar needs for connectivity.The cost-sharing model used in the Malaysian initiative can be adopted worldwide, as it offers a sustainable way to expand coverage without requiring each operator to build separate infrastructure. Whether through passive infrastructure sharing (using existing physical structures like towers) or active sharing (sharing both physical infrastructure and telecommunications equipment), countries can adapt these models to suit their specific geographical and economic contexts.Furthermore, the collaborative approach amongst multiple Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) ensures that the benefits of improved connectivity are widely distributed. This can foster equitable access to high-quality services, a priority for many governments seeking to bridge the digital divide.The approach's flexibility allows for commercial or non-commercial collaborations, making it adaptable to various regulatory environments and economic conditions. The proof of concept testing phase and clear guidelines also ensure that the strategy can be tested, refined, and scaled across different regions, promoting faster, more affordable digital infrastructure rollout worldwide.
The guideline is sustainable because it outlines the principle of collaboration arrangement comprised of the methodology and solution based on areas prioritisation, sharing model options and mutually agreed between the sharing parties. This guideline addresses the country's pressing needs for greater connectivity. This shared approach also addresses coverage gaps, ensuring that key priority areas such as hospitals, highways and educational institutions are well covered, contributing to national growth and equitable access.This guideline is a transformative initiative that aligns with Malaysia’s broader digital inclusion goals. By fostering collaboration among the MNOs, this guideline seeks to optimise Network Infrastructure Sharing among the MNOs, reduce the costs associated with network deployment and enable more efficient service delivery. This approach is particularly critical for expanding 4G coverage to underserved areas, such as rural and remote regions, where it may not be commercially viable for MNOs to build individual infrastructure.This guideline can be updated with further refined from time to time based on current and future technology and scenarios to bridge the digital divide, ensuring all Malaysians, regardless of location, gain access to reliable, high-speed connectivity, fostering economic development and enhancing the nation’s global competitiveness.
The guideline aligns closely with the WSIS values by promoting universal access to ICT, digital inclusion, and sustainable infrastructure development. This initiative supports multiple WSIS Action Lines, ensuring affordable, reliable, and equitable connectivity for all Malaysians, particularly in underserved areas. 1. C2: Information and Communication Infrastructure • The guidelines enhance digital infrastructure by enabling network sharing among multiple MNOs, improving connectivity nationwide. • Optimized spectrum and infrastructure use ensure cost-effective network expansion, reducing redundant deployments. 2. C3: Access to Information and Knowledge • Ensuring that all Malaysians, including those in rural and remote areas, can access digital resources. • Affordable mobile broadband enables greater participation in e-learning, e-commerce, and online services. 3. C4: Capacity Building • Promotes digital skills development by providing better internet access to communities, supporting online education and professional training. • Empower small businesses and rural entrepreneurs to leverage digital platforms for economic growth. 4. C5: Building Confidence and Security in the Use of ICTs • Ensures secure and reliable networks. • Encourages trust and transparency in fostering confidence in digital services. 5. C7: ICT Applications in Development • E-learning: Improved connectivity supports remote education and online learning platforms. • E-health: Enables telemedicine and healthcare access in rural areas. • E-business: Expands e-commerce and digital entrepreneurship opportunities. • E-government: Strengthens online access to government services for citizens. 6. C11: International and Regional Cooperation • Malaysia becomes the first country globally to implement a 6-way MOCN sharing agreement, setting a precedent for international best practices in network sharing. • Encourages multi-stakeholder collaboration between MNOs aligning with WSIS’s vision of inclusive and sustainable ICT development.
Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC)
Malaysia — Government
https://www.mcmc.gov.my/
Malaysia's Mobile Network Operators - CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, Telekom Malaysia and YTL Communications. Contact person: Mr. Eami Yusry Bin Mohd Yusof (+60173000508)
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