JOHOR BARU: More than 12 million Malaysians are expected to have access to fifth generation (5G) coverage by the end of the year.

This is in line with state-owned 5G agency Digital Nasional Bhd’s (DNB) target for nationwide coverage over populated areas (Copa) of about 40% by the end of December.

Its chief corporate affairs officer Zuraida Jamaluddin (pic) said DNB was on course to achieve 80% Copa nationwide by 2024.

“Meanwhile, the network continues to expand on an accelerated schedule with 5G sites now being constructed in most states, including Johor.


“As at end-August, Johor’s 5G network covers 28.6% of populated areas or 1.08 million residents.

“However, it should be noted that currently only one service provider – YTL Communications – is offering commercial 5G data to the masses.

“With more mobile network operators set to make 5G available to end-users sometime in November, even more users would be able to experience the network soon,” she said during a lunch session with the media here.

Some of the Johor locations already part of the 5G rollout as at end-September are Bukit Indah, Bandar Baru Uda, Bandar Jaya Putra, Taman Daya, Taman Desa Jaya, Taman Desa Tebrau, Taman Mount Austin, Taman Molek, Taman Perling, Taman Pelangi, Taman Puteri Wangsa, Taman Perindustrian Cemerlang, Taman Sentosa, Taman Setia Indah, Johor Baru Sentral, Permas Jaya and Setia Tropika.

“We are anticipating to cover Kota Iskandar by the end of this year and the list of locations include the towns of Segamat, Tangkak, Muar, Batu Pahat, Kluang, Ayer Hitam, Yong Peng, Simpang Renggam, Pontian, Kota Tinggi and Mersing.

“Apart from that, Pasir Gudang, Seri Alam, Bukit Bakri, Taman Universiti, Gelang Patah and Pekan Nanas are also part of next year’s plans,” added Zuraida.

Meanwhile, Johor education, information and communications committee chairman Norliza Noh, who earlier had a meeting with DNB, said she suggested several areas of focus including those in Greater Johor Baru.

“I was briefed on the progress of the 5G network developments in the state and I am happy to learn that things are going smooth and on track.

“The Greater Johor Baru Agenda is the state government’s plan to coordinate development among four local councils in Johor Baru, Iskandar Puteri, Pasir Gudang and Kulai and these areas are densely populated and should be looked into.

“Aside from tourism attractions, I also highlighted the need to focus on expanding the network in industrial and commercial areas,” she added.