Telekom Malaysia has announced what it claims is the world’s first successful standalone (SA) dedicated 5G network mode test using 700MHz and 3.5GHz (C-band) spectrum simultaneously on a converged 5G core network. In a press release regarding the matter, TM said this latest development followed on from a number of other recent notable achievements, including: the updating of its Radio Access Network (RAN) nodes and devices to support 700MHz SA dedicated 5G network; the deployment of a 700MHz 5G SA dedicated network; and the recording of downlink speeds of 1.5Gbps in tests conducted within its 5G use cases sites.
Commenting on the matter, TM’s chief executive Dato’ Noor Kamarul Anuar Nuruddin, said: ‘SA is the eventual state of 5G network architecture, brings new 5G capabilities such as ultra-low latency and advanced network-slicing functions, which will open up many new use cases especially for the enterprises. Coupled with 700MHz spectrum, this can ensure increased coverage nationwide, where many new 5G services can be further delivered; thus enabling greater reach to the population towards addressing the digital divide. 700MHz spectrum will enable fast and wide 5G deployment and together with the C-band spectrum, the network will be ready to take on the traffic of multiple network operators, on top of enterprise verticals; living up to our aim to become the nation’s 5G network infrastructure provider.’
TM is currently participating in the 5G Demonstration Project (5GDP) being undertaken by Malaysia Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). The telco has already reportedly embarked on a total of eleven use cases in Langkawi, while it has also deployed the operations of an Integrated Operations Command Centre (IOCC), also known as 5G Command Centre (5GCC), in that same district.