Moving forward towards 5G implementation in Malaysia

• The four working groups in the task force have commenced work
• MCMC will meet with Ministries to further discuss potential collaboration for 5G

THE National 5G Task Force, which was established to study and recommend a holistic strategy for 5G deployment in Malaysia, has made significant progress since its inception in October 2018.

Its chairman, Mohd Ali Hanafiah Mohd Yunus said that among the achievements of the task force include an increase in its membership, organising the 5G Malaysia Showcase, industry readiness in 5G implementation, as well as various plans discussed by each working group in the task force.

In terms of membership, he said that it has increased from 30 during its initial stages to 110 as of May 31, 2019.

He also added that the 5G Malaysia Showcase in Putrajaya, which was held from April 18 to 21, 2019, received an overwhelming response when it recorded 10,000 visitors from all walks of life.

More importantly, industry players have also shown their readiness in working together to ensure the success of the inaugural showcase.

Among the latest 5G technologies showcased include autonomous self-driving car, drone for emergency 1st responders, holoportation, remote surgery, and precision farming.

Ali Hanafiah further explained that the four working groups under the task force; namely Business Case, Regulatory, Infrastructure, and Spectrum Management and Allocation; have all started work and are preparing their findings in the various areas of concern relating to 5G.

He said that these include performing technical assessments, confirming suitable use cases and business model potential, as well as facilitating policy recommendations towards a more systematic 5G planning. 

Apart from the work of the task force, a spectrum study is also being carried out to ensure readiness and availability of spectrum for 5G implementation. Meanwhile, a call for collaboration for 5G Malaysia Demonstration Project with the industry will also be announced in the near future.

Under this call for collaboration, industry players are invited to propose projects under verticals such as Agriculture, Automotive, Education, Media and Entertainment, Health, Manufacturing, Public Safety, Smart City, and catering for the differently-abled.

To enhance coordination, understanding and 5G implementation among government agencies and Ministries, the 5G Framework Enhancement Workshop with Ministries and Stakeholders will be held on June 27 at the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia Malaysia (KKMM).

The workshop aims to create awareness amongst policy makers in the country about the benefits of 5G, as well as generating new ideas on how to implement 5G use cases in various sectors. During the workshop, challenges in policy-making or regulatory framework will be identified.