The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMMC) today has unveiled a list of high priority areas that requires prompt action from service providers. These areas are part of a new fast track process that MCMC has introduced alongside the implementation of Jalinan Digital Negara (JENDELA) to help improve telco services nationwide.
Under the new fast track process which is effective immediately, service providers have been instructed to sort out their commercial negotiations within 10 days. If they are not able to do so within the stipulated timeframe, MCMC will step in to assess the situation and then comes out with a binding directive for them to comply.
Here they are, as listed by the regulator:
- Federal and State government administration centres;
- Transportation hubs (such as MRT stations, airports and train stations) and the transportation lines (such as railways and highways);
- High economic impact areas (such as industrial parks and economic corridors);
- Identified government projects under RMK-12;
- JENDELA projects;
- High priority areas identified for 5G deployment; and
- Areas where there are exclusive providers.
So, in general, MCMC is asking service providers not to take too much time when it comes to their commercial deals. By having a set time limit, it is possible that this could help speed up the rollout of new communications infrastructure throughout the country.
That being said, the commercial arrangement between service providers was not listed as a major issue inside the 1st quarterly report for JENDELA which was issued earlier this year. We reckoned that the only commercial-related issue noted in the report is the pending site acquisitions by companies that are owned by the state government.
Nevertheless, we will be keeping a look at the next quarterly report to see the impact that the newly announced fast track policy could have on the implementation of JENDELA.
