PUTRAJAYA: There is no need to review the selection of U Mobile Sdn Bhd to develop Malaysia’s second 5G network, says Fahmi Fadzil.
The Communications Minister's comment follows concerns about the appointment process.
He said although the selection pool was small, with only three companies capable of the task, U Mobile was just as qualified as the others.
“No (need for review). The selection of U Mobile was conducted independently by the technical team within the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and unanimously agreed upon by the commission members.
“The decision-making process involved no administrative interference,” he told the post-Cabinet meeting press conference here on Friday (Nov 8).
“I must emphasise, this is not a contract or licence. The instrument will be the 3.6GHz spectrum, also known as F2, allocated for the development of the second 5G network,” he said.
Fahmi said no public funds were used to set up the new 5G network, and its management and governance aspects have proceeded with full transparency and without interference.
Three companies – Celcom/Digi, Maxis, and U Mobile – qualified and met the criteria, he added.
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“Celcom/Digi will have 18,000 towers after its integration is completed, Maxis has 12,000, and U Mobile has 10,000 towers.
“The difference is minimal, and all three were fully eligible to submit applications and be selected.
“MCMC decided on U Mobile, and I respect its decision,” he said, adding that MCMC’s comprehensive review included both financial and technical assessments.
The next step is for MCMC to hold discussions with U Mobile, which has expressed its willingness to collaborate with strategic partners, including other mobile network operators.
MCMC will obtain feedback from U Mobile on its plans, Fahmi said, and further announcements may follow.
He also said the Cabinet is examining various issues involving government-linked companies (GLCs) and government-linked investment companies (GLICs) to ensure improvements in governance and administration.
He said in addition to such matters, attention is also being given to issues concerning rewards and bonuses.
On a separate matter, Fahmi said the second-anniversary celebration of the Madani government, initially to be held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec), will now take place at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) from Nov 22 to 24.
