In a significant step towards enhancing mobile connectivity in Malaysia, YTL Communications has launched a fully functional multi-operator core network (MOCN) 4G base station in Gertak Sanggul, a picturesque coastal suburb of George Town. This initiative aligns with the government’s ambitious plan to promote infrastructure sharing and ensure comprehensive mobile coverage along key roadways.
The new facility, powered by ZTE’s advanced radio equipment, was developed in collaboration with infrastructure partner Konsortium Jaringan Selangor (KJS), which remarkably completed the deployment within a month. This rapid execution is particularly impressive given the site’s challenging coastal engineering conditions, including sandy, unstable soil and the looming threat of saltwater corrosion.
This MOCN base station is not just a technological achievement; it’s a lifeline for over 500 residents and 350 daily commuters in the area. Previously, underserved fishing communities struggled with unreliable mobile service. Now, they can access crucial connectivity as they go about their lives and work.
“By using Yes network equipment and spectrum to host all of Malaysia’s major mobile telcos, we have demonstrated that this innovative network infrastructure sharing approach can effectively enhance coverage nationwide for the benefit of the Rakyat,” said Wing K. Lee, CEO of YTL Communications, during the launch event. It’s safe to say that the days of hanging up on dead zones may soon become a thing of the past—not that anyone misses those awkward silences.
This project is part of the Malaysian government’s “Di Mana Ada Jalan, Di Situ Ada Internet” (Where There’s A Road, There’s Internet) campaign, aimed at eradicating mobile coverage gaps in the country. Under the broader Network Infrastructure Sharing Framework (NISF), Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil revealed that telcos are required to adopt a “6-Way 4G MOCN” model to expedite equitable connectivity for all.
Fadzil, who was present for the launch, highlighted that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is actively collaborating with the Malaysian Highway Authority (Lembaga Lebuhraya Malaysia, LLM) to pinpoint around 50 kilometers of roadways still lacking mobile coverage. “There are several key locations currently under discussion, and my hope is that these can be included in Phase Two of the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA), as many of these areas will likely require new tower construction,” he added.
What is the significance of the new MOCN base station in Gertak Sanggul?
The MOCN base station enhances mobile connectivity for over 500 residents and 350 daily commuters, addressing previous coverage gaps that affected underserved fishing communities.
How does the “Di Mana Ada Jalan, Di Situ Ada Internet” campaign work?
This government initiative aims to eliminate mobile coverage gaps by requiring telecommunications companies to implement a “6-Way 4G MOCN” model, improving connectivity nationwide.
What are the future plans for mobile coverage in Malaysia?
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission is working with the Malaysian Highway Authority to identify additional roadways lacking coverage, with hopes to address these gaps in Phase Two of the National Digital Network Plan.
