News

With Maxis joining, all telcos in Malaysia are now offering 5G services to consumers through Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB). However, customers have been concerned about the additional charges for accessing the national 5G network.

The Single Wholesale Network approach was supposed to make 5G more affordable than 4G, but most telcos in Malaysia are imposing a “DNB tax” of RM5 to RM20 per month for 5G access. Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil will be meeting with telco CEOs to discuss these extra charges and address consumer concerns.

Fahmi shared that even his wife was hesitant to switch to 5G due to the added cost. He highlighted the question of why consumers have to pay for 5G when they were not charged for the transition from 3G to 4G. He aims to find a suitable answer to address this concern.

Fahmi announced that telcos are expected to introduce affordable 5G packages on August 31, 2023, in conjunction with the Merdeka celebration. The minister previously announced the Pakej 5G Rahmah, offering 60GB of 5G data for RM60 per month, along with 5G smartphone bundles starting from RM120 for B40 users.

To access 5G, most telcos charge an additional fee on top of existing 4G plans. However, users can enjoy 5G without extra fees by migrating to newer 5G-enabled plans that offer more data. Some telcos waive the 5G access fees for high-tier postpaid plans.

Maxis, for example, offers new 5G postpaid plans with double the data quota of its previous plans. Existing customers on certain plans can pay an additional fee or upgrade to gain access to 5G. As part of its introductory offer, Maxis and Hotlink Prepaid customers can enjoy free 5G access for the first month.

CelcomDigi also charges a fee for 5G access, which varies depending on the plan. However, the fee is waived for some higher-tier postpaid plans. Alternatively, users can purchase 5G Booster passes or switch to specific prepaid plans to access 5G.

Yoodo charges RM10 per month for 5G access, but it is currently available at a discounted rate of RM5 per month.

Although there is no clear roadmap for the Dual Network approach for 5G yet, all telcos in Malaysia have signed a 10-year access agreement with DNB and are working towards acquiring a stake in the Single Wholesale Network. The government aims to ensure affordable and quality 5G services for the people.

The post Malaysian Telcos Charging “DNB Tax” for 5G Access appeared first on satProviders.