PETALING JAYA: Imagine a world where everything is linked up – cars to drivers; doctors to medical devices – and where downloads are unimaginably fast.
That is what the 5G network will bring to the table when it is rolled out, turning Malaysia into a strong digital force.
Telekom Malaysia Bhd CEO Imri Mokhtar said as the country moves into both a recovery phase and an upward trajectory, it is clear how technology has fit into today’s overall ecosystem.
“Since the pandemic hit, the whole of society witnessed how technology was able to mitigate the challenges we all faced. We need digital connectivity to have that sort of foundation, whether fibre or mobile networks, as we move into 5G,” he told FMT.
Imri said TM was ready to support the targeted rollout next month, which would have obvious benefits whether for micro-entrepreneurs in rural areas or new consumers in urban zones.
With 5G, no one would be left behind and income disparity between urban and rural would be bridged.
“Just recently, I was at an internet centre in Pahang where TM partnered with the government to provide internet access. I met a mushroom farmer who told me that after growing and harvesting his produce, he was able to generate between RM2,000 and RM3,000 monthly.
“However, through the connectivity centre and e-commerce training, his income last month surged to RM34,000.”
Imri said TM will play an important role as it looks to bring innovative solutions to all Malaysians.
“The coming rollout will require elements of 5G equipment like towers, and the fibre front or backhaul that connects to the tower.
“As seen in other markets in foreign countries, there have been many benefits. This includes high-definition video streaming, a more immersive and holistic virtual reality experience, and quicker access to cloud games.
“For businesses, networks will be dedicated to specific locations, for example, for manufacturing, airports and sea ports,” he said.
The associated investment for the 5G network was not as significant if TM had to do it on its own.
“Every year, we allocate a certain amount of capital expenditure for infrastructure. This year, we will invest between 14% and 18% of our revenue towards covering various elements, whether it is fibre, cloud or mobile,” he said.
Imri added that challenges had now become opportunities after the national telecommunications company had to battle through during the pandemic due to a lack of supply materials.
“This is something that has now been resolved. Connectivity has become such a big agenda, so the rollout of the 5G network is definitely timely.
“What is critical is the upskilling of human capital, both private and public partnerships.”
Imri was also all geared up for the 5G Tech 2021 conference from Nov 30 to Dec 2.
“This is a huge opportunity for us to participate with like-minded people. We can align our plans and programmes to drive the country to greater heights.
“This will also be a good platform to create awareness, strong collaborations and friendship with each other,” he said.