U Mobile is collaborating with Celcom Timur Sabah (CT Sabah) to strengthen its rollout of Malaysia’s second 5G network deployment in Sabah and WP Labuan.
The core of this collaboration is an agreement where U Mobile will utilise CT Sabah’s existing fibre optic infrastructure. This is a crucial aspect of 5G network deployment, as fibre optic cables play a vital role in providing the necessary “backhaul”. Backhaul refers to the network that connects the cellular towers or base stations to the core network, enabling the high-speed data transfer that 5G promises.
Specifically, CT Sabah will upgrade its current 4G leased circuit sites to support 5G technology and also establish new leased circuit sites to meet the specific requirements of U Mobile’s 5G network. This involves enhancing the capacity and capabilities of the existing infrastructure to handle the increased data traffic and speed demands of 5G.
U Mobile is set to leverage CT Sabah’s extensive fibre network, which spans over 10,000 kilometres across Sabah and WP Labuan. This widespread network is essential for ensuring robust, stable, and high-capacity connectivity, which is critical for delivering a reliable and high-performance 5G experience to both businesses and individual consumers in the region.
U Mobile’s CTO, Woon Ooi Yuen, emphasised that this partnership is instrumental in accelerating 5G coverage expansion throughout Malaysia and delivering a superior 5G experience. He also reiterated U Mobile’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and supporting Malaysia’s digital ambitions.
CT Sabah’s CEO, Zurinah Datuk Hanafiah, highlighted the company’s focus on improving digital connectivity in Sabah and WP Labuan. She stressed the importance of 5G in driving digital transformation, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the quality of life for the communities in the region.
The initial agreement between the two companies was formalized through a term sheet signed by key representatives, with the final Definitive Agreement expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2025.
Celcom Timur (Sabah) Sdn. Bhd. (CT Sabah) is identified as a key provider of fibre optic infrastructure services in Sabah and WP Labuan.
