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Editorial Note: The manufacturing industry is expected to benefit from 5G the most, especially with organisations embracing IR4.0. Yet, it’s still hard to determine the full impact of 5G and the use cases that will benefit the most from it. Also, we can’t help but wonder how this collaboration is going to have an impact on the pricing of 5G services once launched, if the potential partnership becomes an actual partnership.

Celcom Axiata Berhad (Celcom) and Maxis Berhad (Maxis) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore a potential partnership for efficient deployment of Malaysia’s 5G infrastructure, further supporting the development of the nation’s digital ecosystem.

The collaboration will also enable both telcos to explore possible business opportunities in relation to 5G key strategic areas to deliver the best 5G innovation to benefit the people and businesses in Malaysia as soon as the necessary spectrum is made available.

This potential collaboration focuses on the joint deployment of 5G infrastructure which will cover selected areas. Maxis and Celcom will still maintain its own network and remain competitive in other areas.

Signing on behalf of Celcom was Idham Nawawi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and Muniff Kamaruddin, Chief Strategy and Value Creation Officer. Meanwhile, Maxis was represented by Gokhan Ogut, CEO and Morten Bangsgaard, Chief Technology & Information Officer.

Idham Nawawi, CEO, Celcom said, “We believe collaboration is the way forward for the industry and working with Maxis to explore a more coordinated 5G deployment in Malaysia is something we are excited about. 5G is the next evolution that will transform how people work, live and play. It will enable a more enhanced consumer experience as well as create new opportunities for consumers, students, governments and businesses alike. Our potential collaboration will pave the way for the delivery of a world-class 5G network, on top of our existing 4G and 3G/2G networks, to every Malaysian, realising a truly digital Malaysia in the IR4.0 era.”

Gokhan Ogut, CEO, Maxis said, “We welcome the idea of collaborating with Celcom for 5G network sharing. We are already sharing towers, fiber and working together on connectivity for rural areas and USP projects. This helps us save resources and accelerate rollout. With this 5G network sharing, it presents an opportunity for us to deliver more value to our customers. Such industry collaboration is important in supporting Malaysia’s ambition in driving the digital economy.”