Celcom Axiata, Huawei launched large-scale commercial FDD Smart 8T8R network

KUALA LUMPUR: Celcom Axiata Sdn Bhd (Celcom) and Huawei Technologies Malaysia Sdn Bhd (Huawei) have launched the world's first large-scale commercial FDD Smart 8T8R network in response to the rapid growth of data traffic and network congestion in major cities.

This will ensure that Celcom's 4G network provides a seamless experience for customers as the company transitions to 5G, the telecommunication company said in a statement today.

Celcom Axiata Bhd chief operating officer (Technology) Afizulazha Abdullah said Celcom has been relentless in optimising its network coverage, capacity and resiliency by accelerating investments at the most needed areas with the latest radio access network technology.

"We are mitigating the data traffic surge as our utmost priority by utilising Smart 8T8R technology and mitigate the network congestion to deliver an improved consistent network experience.

"Celcom's ongoing accelerated network investments are aligned with the government's Jalinan Digital Negara (JENDELA) aspiration to achieve nationwide 4G coverage.

"We will also continue collaborating

with Huawei to further innovate and implement technical breakthroughs, ensuring the best network experience for all Malaysians," Afizulazha said in a statement today.

Celcom's increased network investments of over RM250 million have resulted in a preliminary reduction of network traffic congestion in delivering consistent network service and experience since December 2020, and this Smart 8T8R network initiative is part of that.

Celcom recorded nearly 70 per cent data traffic growth with 474 million GB in the first quarter of 2021, compared to the first quarter of 2021, as the pandemic and Movement Control Order (MCO) accelerated digitalisation among Malaysians.

Data usage per month per user increased by 46.1 per cent year-on-year, from 14.9GB per month per user to 21.8GB per month per user.

To date, Celcom has deployed several 8T8R sites in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Perak and Penang.

The upgraded 8T8R sites will support existing 4T4R sites in rural and urban areas, reducing network traffic congestion and providing a consistent network experience for all Celcom customers.

Celcom plans to upgrade more 4G sites with 8T8R technology across the country.

Huawei Malaysia vice president Zac Chow said as global information, communication and technology (ICT) leader, Huawei is honoured

to share its resources and expertise with Celcom for this project.

"We believe this is an innovative solution that will help Celcom maximise its spectrum efficiency and enable a seamless experience for customers while paving the way for 5G when the time comes.

"This work supports Malaysia's digital economy journey. As the country moves further into the digital era and as its digital economy grows, it is our privilege to help ensure that everyone is connected and that no one is left behind," Chow said.

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