Malaysia’s largest cellco by subscribers, Maxis Communications, has announced the launch of what it claims is the country’s first commercial Long Term Evolution (LTE) service. The operator has announced the introduction of the 4G technology in selected parts of the Klang Valley, including Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Damansara Utama, Desa Sri Hartamas, Bandar Puchong Jaya, Bandar Sunway and Cyberjaya; coverage is expected to be extended to other areas ‘very soon’. In revealing the development, Maxis has said that LTE customers will be able to access downlink speeds of up to 75Mbps, adding that it ‘typical average speeds’ are likely to be between 10Mbps and 30Mbps. Customers in the initial coverage areas are able to sign up for Maxis’ 4G service at its retail outlets in Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) and Taman Tun Dr Ismail, with the operator noting that tariffs for its mobile broadband products start at MYR88 (USD28.72) per month.
Commenting on the development, Maxis CEO Sandip Das noted: ‘This represents a crucial milestone in Maxis’ integrated journey. 4G LTE operates at download speeds five to ten times faster than 3G and will enable and sustain a seamless experience of rich content across both our high-speed fixed and wireless network platform in the country.’