Malaysian mobile network operator (MNO) Maxis has inked a deal with China’s Huawei Technologies for the provisioning of a 5G network. In a press release announcing the development, it was noted that under the terms of the agreement Huawei will supply Maxis with both 4G/LTE and 5G radio equipment and services, with the vendor to modernise the cellco’s existing LTE network to be 5G-ready. It has been claimed that by leveraging its existing investments and 4G network footprint, the MNO will be able to facilitate faster rollout of 5G services when spectrum becomes available. Meanwhile, as per the contract, the cellco will reportedly have access to ‘insights, standards, products and solutions that would make 5G easier to deploy and operate and introduce new use cases in Malaysia’. Further, Huawei is expected to put together a team of experts to support Maxis on a series of technical training programmes on planning, operations and maintenance of the 5G network.
Commenting, Maxis chairman YM Raja Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Arshad bin Raja Tun Uda, said: ‘This is an important moment not just for Maxis, but for everyone in Malaysia as we prepare ourselves for an exciting future of next generation connectivity. Today’s signing therefore represents significant progress in our journey and commitment to accelerate 5G in Malaysia.’