Malaysian mobile network operator U Mobile has chosen EdgePoint Infrastructure as its preferred 5G infrastructure partner.
The carrier announced it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with EdgePoint for the company to become one of its preferred 5G in-building (IBC) infrastructure partners for the rollout of its wholesale 5G network in the country.
U Mobile is looking to build Malaysia's second 5G network, rivaling the first built by Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) under the country's previous government.
The carrier noted that the partnership will focus on 5G IBC deployment across Malaysia while deploying the network in a cost-effective way.
"As Malaysia’s next gen 5G network provider, we are committed to delivering high-quality, reliable, and ultra-fast 5G services to consumers and businesses, be it indoor or outdoor, especially in high-traffic areas and commercial centers, so that all Malaysians may thrive in a digital economy," said Woon Ooi Yuen, U Mobile’s chief technology officer.
"Our partnership with EdgePoint also underscores our commitment to accelerate 5G adoption and innovation, by ensuring reliable connectivity that will support AI-driven automation, IoT-enabled buildings, and more."
“Collaborating with U Mobile to accelerate the 5G rollout in Malaysia is the next natural step in our ongoing fruitful partnership," added Muniff Kamaruddin, chief executive officer of EdgePoint Towers.
Earlier this year, U Mobile chairman Tan Sri Vincent Tan Chee Yioun outlined plans to complete the 5G network rollout by mid-2026. He noted at the time that the company would not need any additional backing from the government or new partners.
Tan said at the time that the carrier had identified Chinese vendors Huawei and ZTE as network equipment suppliers. Swedish vendor Ericsson has supported DNB's state-owned 5G rollout.
A second network was proposed by the government as it sought to end the duopoly held by the Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB).
The Malaysian government approved a second national 5G network last year to compete with the first network.
Launched in 2021, DNB has seen its network heavily scrutinized by Prime Minister Ibrahim's administration over claims of transparency issues. This led Ibrahim's administration to review DNB's plan for a state-owned 5G network, with the DNB quite clear that it was to be the only 5G network in the country.
Malaysia's Ministry of Finance holds a 30 percent stake in DNB, with the rest split among four of the country's operators: Telekom Malaysia, Maxis, YTL, and CelcomDigi.
As of the end of last year, Malaysia has 18.2 million 5G service subscriptions, representing a 53.4 percent adoption rate.
