Petronas becomes first corporate in Malaysia to adopt 5G private network for enterprise use

• Has improved operational efficiency, supporting sustainability targets
• MCMC working with mobile providers to deploy 5G standalone networks

PETRONAS has successfully adopted a 5G private network at its Regasification Terminal Sungai Udang (RGTSU) in Melaka, the first in Malaysia to adopt 5G technology for enterprise use.

Supported by the Ministry of Communications and Digital and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the deployment of 5G private network by Petronas is expected to optimise its internal operations and induce industry-wide change.

An event to commemorate the adoption was officiated by Deputy Prime Minister, Fadillah Yusof, and witnessed by Communications and Digital Minister, Fahmi Fadzil, its Secretary-General, Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, MCMC Chairman, Mohamad Salim Fateh Din and Petronas Senior Vice President Project Delivery & Technology, Bacho Pilong.

The event exhibited the aspirations under the Ekonomi Madani and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) framework, which sets technology as the catalyst for a thriving and prosperous nation.

“As we embark on this transformative journey, it’s crucial to acknowledge the integral role cutting-edge technologies play, 5G's fast connectivity, low latency, and capacity to handle massive data flows will empower our industries to innovate, compete and excel on a global scale,” said Fadillah.

MCMC is working closely with mobile service providers to deploy 5G standalone networks that will foster more use case development across industries in Malaysia. As of Sept, Malaysia's 5G network coverage in populated areas stands at 70.2%. “We are on track to achieve the target of 80% 5G network coverage in populated areas by the end of 2023 before transitioning from the single wholesale network to a dual network model,” Fadillah added. 5G subscriptions currently stand at 2.49 million or 7.4% penetration rate. 

The deployment of the Petronas 5G Private Network sets the stage further for collaborative developments between the government, private sector, and academia to fully unlock the potential of 5G technology. Additionally, through Ekonomi Madani and the NIMP 2030, focus will be given to nurturing local talents in ensuring the workforce possesses adequate skills and expertise to drive forward the digital future.

“I applaud Petronas for their foresight and commitment to Malaysia's progress. On this note, I want to commend Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil, for his unwavering commitment and focus on steering the country's 5G efforts,” said Fadillah.

Bacho said that the deployment of the 5G private network at RGTSU Melaka, has improved operational efficiency and safety, supporting its business and sustainability targets.

“Our strategic adoption of 5G technology sets us ahead in the energy industry. By combining 5G with Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence, and automation, we're putting Petronas as among the leaders in the global technological race, while ensuring we meet the demands of supplying safe, reliable, cost-optimised and emission abated energy solutions for Malaysia and our customers globally,” Bacho added.