KUALA LUMPUR: U Mobile has formed strategic partnerships with eight state-backed network facility providers to prepare and accelerate the rollout of 5G under the government's dual network model.
The pact will see U Mobile tap into the local talent, expertise and tower infrastructure footprint of the eight companies.
They are members of Persatuan Penyedia Infrastruktur Telekomunikasi (PPIT) Malaysia namely D' Harmoni Telco Infra, Konsortium Jaringan Selangor, Perlis Comm, Infra Quest, Sacofa, Desabina Industries, PDC Telecommunication Services and PINS Network Solutions (PPIT Consortium).
U Mobile chief technology officer Woon Ooi Yuen said the company is committed to bringing affordable, high-quality 5G to Malaysia, in line with the government's plan for a second 5G network to boost competition and drive sustainability of the country's telecommunications industry.
"This includes PPIT Consortium, as their talent and local knowledge will be of great value to U Mobile in our quest to significantly speed up our 5G rollout, bringing the benefits and economic advantages of 5G technology to consumers, businesses and the public sector," he said.
U Mobile said PPIT Consortium had expressed full support for its rollout of the second 5G network.
This involves close collaboration on knowledge sharing and the provision of access to tower structures, space, power and expedited site implementations to accelerate deployment of 5G sites.
"This streamlined process, combined with the experience and skill sets of these firms will ultimately speed up 5G coverage expansion in the country.
"Additionally, the parties will establish cost efficient commercial models for various infrastructure requirements including built-to-suit sites, co-locations and site upgrades, with the goal of establishing a competitive and sustainable offering between U Mobile and PPIT Consortium," it added.
Other members of PPIT Consortium include Yiked Bina, a subsidiary of edotco, and EdgePoint Towers, both of whom entered into an MoU with U Mobile earlier in July 2024.