KUALA LUMPUR: U Mobile Sdn Bhd says it has decided to not pursue investments in Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) for the deployment of 5G.
The company opted to focus on providing "innovative and unbeatable" connectivity that would realise the full potential of 5G technology.
In a statement, U Mobile said it had always been supportive of the government's vision of a single wholesale network (SWN) model for 5G deployment in Malaysia.
"U Mobile has had extensive discussions and deliberations on the matter and after taking into consideration the terms of the investment as it currently stands, the telco has decided that it will not pursue the investment option in DNB.
"The telco believes it would better serve Malaysians by focusing on its strengths of providing innovative and unbeatable connectivity and digital services, that would realise the full potential of 5G technology," it said,
It underscored that its decision would not affect its ability to provide 5G services to customers as access to DNB's 5G network infrastructure was governed by a separate access agreement, which was not linked to the equity investment in DNB.
The company also noted that it was in discussion to finalise the 5G access agreement with DNB, along with the other telcos.
"Once it is finalised and signed, DNB's 5G access when combined with U Mobile's existing 4G network will enable U Mobile customers to enjoy a truly seamless connectivity experience.
"U Mobile has full faith that DNB will be on schedule for the deployment of quality 5G network infrastructure and that it will carry out the government's mandate to provide wholesale 5G coverage and capacity on an equitable and non-discriminatory basis via the 5G access agreement.
"U Mobile has been testing 5G services and are looking forward to our customers enjoying the full benefits of 5G with our 5G-ready products and services soon," it added.
Report by Reuters previously stated that U Mobile and Maxis Bhd had decided to not take stakes in DNB.
The report, quoting sources said both telcos could not see benefits in being a minority shareholders of DNB.