Nobody really knows how the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) evaluates who should be given the limited 3G spectrum licence,  but its quite a mystery how they managed not to give one to DiGi Telecommunications who happen to be only one of the three Mobile Telco Operators in the country.

Not once but twice seems a bit ridiculous. The first rejection seemed fair, with only two spectrums up for grabs, it quite easily was taken up by Maxis and Telekom owned Celcom.  The second round spectrums were awarded to MiTV (a financially sound company but barely a couple of years old, mostly involved in "fine tuning" homegrown technology to provide Digital Interactive TV) and  Time Dot Com (a once upon a time mobile player before selling off their mobile division and subscriber base to Maxis).

Digi (owned by Telenor Norway) are not too impressed and have issued a statement requesting clarification from the MCMC and the Ministry as to why their application was rejected.

The following is a statement by DiGi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd Chief Executive Officer, Mr Morten Lundal, on 3 March 2006:

We have noted a press release from the Ministry and press reports of an announcement on the awarding of the 3G spectrum.  This reportedly states that spectrum has been awarded to 2 other groups and not to DiGi.  DiGi has not received any official communication on this.

We would be extremely surprised by such a decision if this is confirmed, and we will immediately seek clarity from the MCMC on this matter.

DiGi is in a strong position in Malaysia with its widest high speed mobile coverage and advanced mobile solutions, financial capacity and extraordinarily committed employees.  We intend to leverage on all our resources for the next phase of our development.  DiGi will explore all options to the fullest in order to deliver on its commitment to be the most exciting mobile broadband provider in Malaysia.

Source : DiGi Press Release
Link : The Edge, Digi Seeks Clarification
Related : In Persuit of 3G

On a seperate note, Celcom is offering a new RM4.99 limited edition prepaid starter packs. The packs however are targeted at Air Asia customers, and can only be obtained at Air Asia ticketing counters. However you would not have to purchase a ticket in order to purchase the limited edition packs. Prepaid packs at airline tickets counters, can i have fries with that?

Link : Reuters

Your Name:

Your Email Address:

Your Homepage:

Rate this article:
Poor Great

Comment:

BOLD

"QUOTE"

UNDERLINE