Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s decision to transition from a Single Wholesale Network to a Dual Network model for 5G deployment is expected to drive competition, attract investment, and accelerate the country’s digital transformation, according to the GSM Association (GSMA).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the global organisation stated that it expects the transition to improve service affordability, spur network investment, and create new opportunities for enterprise services and innovation. The GSMA highlighted that this approach will foster a fertile environment for new services, partnerships, and business models, accelerating Malaysia’s transition to a vibrant digital economy.

GSMA added that it has long supported infrastructure-based competition as the foundation of a resilient mobile ecosystem. Findings from GSMA Intelligence’s latest report, ‘Tapping the Untapped: Malaysia 5G and the Tech Economy’, indicate that a dual network model will strengthen network resilience, enhance consumer choice, and drive economic growth. By adopting this approach, Malaysia joins leading 5G markets where competition has led to better connectivity outcomes.

GSMA Asia-Pacific head Julian Gorman emphasized that the move underscores Malaysia’s commitment to fostering a competitive and investment-friendly telecoms sector. He mentioned that countries embracing market-led infrastructure development consistently achieve better connectivity outcomes, fuel innovation, and drive stronger digital economies. However, Gorman noted that Malaysia’s digital transformation is far from complete, and ongoing industry collaboration and policy consistency will be essential to sustaining this momentum and keeping the country competitive on the global digital stage.