Latest news with #MOCN
Borneo Post
10-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
MCMC, SDEC ink deal to expand S'wak's rural connectivity under SMART600 Project
Sudarnoto (left) and Mohamad Salim show the signed agreement, as others look on. KUCHING (July 11): The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) have reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating inclusive digital connectivity in rural Sarawak through the SMART600 Project, a high-impact initiative aimed at transforming the state's rural digital landscape. This collaboration was formalised during a signing ceremony held at MCMC headquarters in Cyberjaya on Wednesday. Signing on behalf of MCMC was its chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din, while SDEC was represented by its chief executive officer Dato Sudarnoto Osman. Also present to witness the signing were SDEC chairman Tan Sri Datuk Amar Morshidi Abdul Ghani, along with MCMC and SDEC officials. The SMART600 Project is part of the government's broader efforts to strengthen rural access, and is expected to benefit rural communities in Sarawak by supporting their daily needs such as education, telehealth, digital economy activities, and communication. Under this initiative, a total of 600 new telecommunications towers will be built in two phases, with 300 towers per phase. These towers will provide high-quality 4G mobile services to over 1,000 remote locations, benefitting around 180,000 residents in areas such as Belaga, Marudi, Sungai Belawai, Kapit, and Sungai Encheremin, thereby bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas. To date, 587 towers have been completed, of which 431 have been activated or are 'on-air' using the advanced Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) technology. The remaining towers will be activated in stages. The project will also enhance access to high-speed Internet to support data-intensive applications, including artificial intelligence tools, video streaming, public services, and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions. Users will have more choices with up to five Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) under the management of MCMC, and the Sarawak Rural Broadband Network (MySRBN) services operated by the Sarawak government, where all these services share infrastructure and spectrum through the MOCN arrangement. By strengthening rural connectivity, the SMART600 Project also realises the aspirations of the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030 to promote digital economic activities, uplift the socio-economic status of the people, and ensure that no one is left behind. The Sarawak government, through SDEC as the implementing agency, will fund the capital expenditure (CAPEX) for the tower construction. MCMC, representing the federal government, together with mobile network operators, namely CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, and YTL Communications, will jointly cover the operational expenditure (OPEX). This joint financing model ensures the long-term sustainability of the towers in rural Sarawak, despite facing geographical and economic challenges. Internet MCMC rural connectivity sdec SMART600 Project
The Sun
09-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
MCMC and SDEC boost Sarawak digital connectivity with SMART600 project
PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC) have formalised a partnership to accelerate digital connectivity in Sarawak through the SMART600 Project. The agreement, signed today, focuses on expanding 4G coverage in remote areas using the Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) Radio Access Network (RAN) Sharing model. Under the agreement, the Sarawak government, via SDEC, will fund the construction of new telecommunications towers, while MCMC and participating telcos—CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, and YTL Communications—will cover operational costs. 'This joint financing model ensures that towers in Sarawak's remote areas can continue to operate despite geographical and economic challenges,' stated MCMC and SDEC in a joint release. The signing ceremony was witnessed by MCMC chairman Tan Sri Mohamad Salim Fateh Din and SDEC CEO Datuk Sudarnoto Osman at MCMC's headquarters. To date, 587 4G towers have been completed, with 431 already activated using MOCN technology. The remaining towers will be progressively brought online. The SMART600 project aims to construct 600 towers in two phases, delivering high-quality 4G services to over 1,000 rural locations. This initiative is expected to benefit around 180,000 residents in underserved communities. The project will enhance internet access for data-heavy applications such as AI, video streaming, and IoT, bridging the digital gap between urban and rural Sarawak. Key areas covered include Belaga, Marudi, Sungai Belawai, Kapit, and Sungai Encheremin. Telcos will share infrastructure and spectrum under MCMC and MySRBN supervision, ensuring efficient service delivery under the SMART600 initiative.
Broadcast Pro
09-07-2025
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
Nokia, CST and partners launch 4.0 GHz neutral host network in KSA
Enabled by Nokias Shikra pico radio solution and backed by CSTs regulatory advancements, the model removes the need for 4G anchoring and supports infrastructure sharing among operators through MOCN. Nokia, together with Saudi Arabias Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST), local neutral host specialist ACES NH and Service providers Mobily and Zain KSA, has completed Industry first pilot deployment of 5G Standalone (5G SA) indoor coverage using sharable indoor spectrum on the 4.0-4.1 GHz band and active sharing techniques. For the first time, reportedly every mobile operator in the Kingdom can deliver gigabit-class 5G inside low to medium traffic buildings through a single, cost-optimised system, eliminating the need for duplicate equipment and 4G anchors while cutting deployment costs by more than 60%. The proof-of-concept underscores how Nokias Shikra radio portfolio and Multi?Operator Core Network (MOCN) software unlock spectrum-efficient, multi-operator 5G for private wireless and public networks alike. This solution was recently recognised by the Small Cell Forum, receiving the Small Cells World Summit 2025 Award for 'Outstanding Progress in Enabling Neutral Host and Multi-Operator Business Models'. Mobile data traffic per smartphone is projected to escalate from 29 GB per month in 2024 to about 54 GB per month by 2030. Although 80% of mobile traffic is generated indoors, conventional Distributed Antenna Systems often dedicate separate hardware and spectrum to each operator, driving up CAPEX and energy use. By using sharable indoor spectrum on the 4.0-4.1 GHz band in combination with 5G SA active sharing, the pilot demonstrates fair access for all operators while accelerating coverage in business districts, giga?projects and public venues. Early cost modeling by Nokia and ACES shows a further 47% saving when 4G anchoring is removed, making 5G SA greenfield indoor sites commercially viable from day one. Eng. Mufarreh J. AlNahari, Deputy Governor of Studies and Innovation at the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST), said: 'This collaboration demonstrates how innovative regulatory practices, vendor expertise and local partners can together deliver reliable, high-quality 5G for enterprises and consumers. We look forward to scaling the model across the Kingdom.' Mikko Lavanti, Senior Vice President for Mobile Networks, MEA at Nokia, added: 'Sharable indoor spectrum gives stakeholders a powerful new tool to boost indoor 5G adoption without complex auctions or spectrum refarming. Our Shikra pico radios and true 5G SA active sharing software prove that one neutral host system can serve every operator with carrier-grade performance, cutting both cost and carbon emissions per gigabyte.' Dr. Khalid AlMashouq, Chief Executive Officer at ACES NH, commented: 'With Nokias ready and innovative indoor portfolio we can give building owners a single, future-proof solution while operators gain rapid, capital-light expansion. Its a win for everyone in the 5G ecosystem.' Eng. Alaa Malki, Chief Technology Officer at Mobily, stated: 'Enhancing customer experience and optimizing network performance in indoor environments are core to Mobilys strategic priorities. Our active participation in this pioneering initiative reflects our commitment to driving innovation, operational efficiency, and scalable 5G solutions. By advancing shared infrastructure models, we are reinforcing Mobilys leadership in shaping the future of telecommunications in the Kingdom and accelerating the realization of Saudi Arabias digital transformation goals.' Eng. Mohammed AlNujaidi, Chief Technology Officer at Zain KSA, highlighted: 'Pioneering future-ready shareable network models that unlock scalable, high-performance connectivity is part of Zain KSAs commitment to driving the evolution of Saudi Arabias digital infrastructure. By enabling seamless digital access and significantly enhancing the customer experience, this initiative plays a pivotal role in advancing and accelerating the Kingdoms digital transformation journey and smart infrastructure development for a knowledge-based society and digital economy.' Nokias Shikra pico solutions for the 4.0 GHz band are compact, low-power remote radios that blanket multistorey buildings with uniform mid-band 5G coverage. Leveraging 5G Standalone MOCN active sharing, a single RAN and core slice can serve multiple operators at once, boosting spectral efficiency and streamlining operations. The platform is also private wireless ready: the very same infrastructure can host dedicated enterprise 5G cores, delivering secure Industry 4.0 and campus network services alongside public connectivity.
Borneo Post
09-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak in talks with MCMC to boost MySRBN using Jendela infrastructure
Julaihi speaking to reporters after officiating the MD Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI) @ Sarawak at BCCK today. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad KUCHING (July 9): The Ministry of Utility and Telecommunication is in ongoing discussions with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to expand the reach of the Sarawak Rural Broadband Network (MySRBN) service by tapping into the federal-led Jendela tower infrastructure. Its Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said the initiative aims to strengthen internet coverage in rural Sarawak by leveraging both state and federal telecommunication towers. 'In fact, at the moment, MySRBN is using the infrastructure provided by SMART towers. But we have also spoken to MCMC to allow MySRBN to utilise Jendela towers,' he told reporters when met at the MD Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI) @ Sarawak at Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) here today. He explained that the locations for both SMART and Jendela towers do not overlap, presenting an opportunity to improve coverage by integrating both networks. 'Where there is a SMART tower, we don't place a Jendela tower. So we have different locations. To ensure better coverage, we are proposing that MySRBN not only use towers provided by SMART but also those under Jendela,' he said. Julaihi noted that MCMC has responded positively to the proposal, describing the commission as an equal partner with a shared goal of expanding internet coverage in rural areas. Earlier in his opening remarks, Julaihi reaffirmed the state's commitment to bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas through investments in digital infrastructure and programmes like MySRBN. 'My ministry is directly involved in providing digital infrastructure that is very much needed, especially in rural areas, as part of our strategy to bring them into the mainstream of development,' he said. He revealed that Sarawak has injected RM2.3 billion to complement federal efforts in improving connectivity, particularly through the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) and Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC). A total of 618 SMART towers are being constructed across the state under the Sarawak Linking Urban, Rural and Nation (Saluran) initiative. 'To date, 603 out of 618 SMART towers have been completed, with 502 already active or 'on air', and 405 activated in stages using Multi Operator Core Network (MOCN) technology,' he said. The MOCN approach, he explained, enables multiple telecommunication providers — including CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, YTL and TM — to share tower infrastructure, ensuring broader and more flexible network coverage. Julaihi highlighted that MySRBN, introduced in March 2021, uses Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology to deliver high-speed internet to previously unconnected rural communities. As of now, 32,000 homes in Sarawak are connected to MySRBN. 'MySRBN stimulates economic growth in rural Sarawak. One of the impacts we've seen is the creation of new opportunities for local entrepreneurs to engage in online business,' he said. He added that efforts are underway to promote the service more widely. 'We are still conducting extensive campaigns to expand MySRBN to all villages and longhouses in rural areas,' he said. Julaihi said a recent MySRBN campaign in Pulau Bruit was well received, indicating strong demand for the service among rural communities. 'I believe rural residents, especially those involved in MSMEs, will be able to participate more actively in the future if such connectivity infrastructure can be implemented more comprehensively,' he said. He reiterated that digital transformation depends not only on awareness but also on the physical infrastructure that enables participation. 'We are targeting around 7,000 towers across Sarawak to ensure full coverage by 2030. Right now, we've reached more than 5,000,' Julaihi said. He affirmed that the state government remains committed to ensuring rural communities are not left behind in Sarawak's digital economy goals, as outlined in the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 and Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030.
Borneo Post
09-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Julaihi: 603 SMART towers completed in Sarawak, 502 now 'on-air'
Julaihi (seated centre) flanked by Ugak (right) and Wan Murdani in a group photo with participants during the launch of the MD Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI) @ Sarawak today. – Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad KUCHING (July 9): A total of 603 out of 618 Sarawak Multimedia Authority Rural Telecommunication (SMART) telecommunication towers have been completed across Sarawak, with 502 of them already activated or 'on-air', and 405 progressively equipped with advanced Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) technology. In disclosing this, Utility and Telecommunication Minister Dato Sri Julaihi Narawi said digital transformation requires a strong infrastructure foundation. 'Therefore, the Sarawak Government launched the Sarawak Linking Urban, Rural and Nation (Saluran) programme, which targets the construction of 600 4G telecommunication towers in rural and remote areas of Sarawak under the SMART project, managed by Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC). 'As of today, 603 out of 618 SMART towers have been completed, with 502 already activated or 'on-air', and 405 progressively equipped with advanced Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) technology. 'This MOCN technology allows major telecommunications companies such as CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, YTL, and TM to provide their network services, enabling rural and remote communities to enjoy comprehensive coverage regardless of their chosen provider,' Julaihi said in his opening remarks at the MD Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI) @ Sarawak held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) today. He added that the introduction of the SMART towers was further strengthened by the rollout of the Sarawak Rural Broadband Network (MySRBN), launched in March 2021. 'MySRBN leverages Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technology to deliver high-speed internet to rural communities that previously had no connectivity. 'To date, around 32,000 homes across Sarawak have been connected to MySRBN, and this number is expected to continue rising;' he said. Julaihi emphasised that MySRBN has stimulated economic growth by opening up new opportunities for rural entrepreneurs to engage in online business. He also stressed that successful digitalisation efforts must go beyond infrastructure and funding. 'Real digitalisation happens when communities possess strong digital literacy and the confidence to use technology in their daily lives,' he said. The BDI @ Sarawak event, jointly organised by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment Sarawak (MINTRED), and SDEC, serves as a strategic platform to promote digitalisation, especially among micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Julaihi commended MDEC, MINTRED, SDEC, and all partners involved in the initiative, expressing hope that the programme would serve as a catalyst for further digital transformation across Sarawak. He underscored the importance of grassroots-level engagement and capacity building, pointing to training programmes conducted by SDEC based on community needs. 'Today's initiative is the beginning of a larger movement — one to ensure that every MSME in Sarawak is given equal opportunity to thrive in a fast-paced digital economy. 'Our goal is to create an inclusive, sustainable and competitive digital landscape — not just for today, but for future generations,' he added. Also present were Deputy Digital Minister Datuk Wilson Ugak Kumbong and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) head of digital adoption Wan Murdani Wan Mohamad.
