Tag Archives: U Mobile

U Mobile and Huawei Strengthen Partnership for Enhanced 5G Network

August 12, 2024 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

U Mobile and Huawei Malaysia have entered into a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at bolstering the telco’s 5G network capabilities. The collaboration will see both companies work closely to enhance the overall 5G experience, accelerate the deployment of future Radio Access Network (RAN) technologies, and drive 5G adoption among both consumers and enterprises.

Building on their existing partnership, U Mobile will leverage Huawei Malaysia’s global expertise to deploy advanced hardware and software solutions for the nation’s second 5G network. This strategic move is expected to significantly improve network efficiency and performance. Furthermore, the telco will tap into Huawei’s technical prowess to prepare for the integration of future RAN technologies, ensuring that its network remains at the forefront of technological advancements.

To foster greater 5G adoption, U Mobile and Huawei Malaysia will intensify research and development efforts. The collaboration will focus on understanding and addressing the evolving needs of consumers and enterprises, particularly in sectors with high demands for low latency and massive bandwidth, such as those in the enterprise segment.

“U Mobile is delighted to receive Huawei Malaysia’s support for the deployment of the second 5G network. As long-term partners, we have benefitted from Huawei Malaysia’s technologies and global expertise and we believe they will continue to play a critical role in helping us improve the 5G experience and also in our preparations to deploy future RAN technologies,” said Woon Ooi Yuen, Chief Technology Officer at U Mobile. “This will help us ensure that our infrastructure is capable of supporting rapidly evolving and high-performance needs, particularly from enterprises.”

Zac Chow, Vice President of the Carrier Network Business Group at Huawei Malaysia, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Huawei Malaysia looks forward to supporting U Mobile in their future developments. We want to set the stage for a better and more connected future. Our ultimate goal is to bridge the digital divide, and bring digital to every person, home and organisation.”

The latest MoU builds upon a previous agreement signed earlier this year, which focused on 5G innovation and business adoption. This ongoing collaboration underscores the commitment of both companies to driving Malaysia’s digital transformation and enhancing the overall telecommunications landscape in the country.

News

“Pakej Rahmah Prabayar Siswa” Announced for Malaysian Students

July 18, 2024 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

The Malaysian government recently announced the Pakej Rahmah Prabayar Siswa initiative, aiming to address affordability concerns regarding mobile data plans for students. This program specifically targets students enrolled in public universities (IPTA) and public skills training institutes (ILKA).

Pakej Rahmah Prabayar Siswa focuses on providing cost-effective prepaid mobile data plans. The program sets a maximum price of RM30 for these plans, making them significantly cheaper compared to standard options. This ensures students can stay connected without straining their budgets.

The program guarantees a minimum data allotment of 30GB, catering to online learning needs. Students can download study materials, participate in online lectures and tutorials, and stay connected with classmates and family throughout the semester. Some participating telecommunication companies (telcos) might even offer additional data within the same 180-day validity period.

Program Launch and Availability

The Pakej Rahmah Prabayar Siswa initiative is scheduled to commence on August 16th, 2024. Students will have the option to choose from plans offered by various telcos including CelcomDigi, Maxis, U Mobile, Unifi Mobile, and Yes 5G.

While specific details regarding the registration process haven’t been released yet, it’s expected that subscriptions will be available through the respective telco websites or their physical stores. Students will likely need to provide valid student identification to verify their enrollment at an IPTA or ILKA institution.

Business, News

Malaysia’s Telco Landscape in Flux: Is Maxis Eyes U Mobile Buyout?

July 18, 2024 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

Malaysia’s telecommunications landscape could be on the cusp of a major shakeup, with Maxis Bhd., one of the country’s leading mobile operators, reportedly considering a buyout of its rival, U Mobile Sdn Bhd. This potential merger, if successful, would mark the second significant consolidation within the industry following the recent Celcom-Digi merger announced in May 2024.

Strategic Move to Consolidate Two Rivals on the Same Page

News of the potential Maxis-U Mobile deal emerged in mid-July 2024. Sources close to the matter claim that Maxis has expressed interest in acquiring U Mobile, with talks currently in their early stages. This move comes at a time when Malaysia is actively accelerating its transition to 5G technology, and both companies are vying for a strategic advantage.

The potential Maxis-U Mobile merger mirrors the recent Celcom-Digi union, which seeks to create a dominant player in the 5G space. With the Malaysian government aiming to roll out nationwide 5G coverage by 2024, consolidation within the telecommunications sector appears to be a strategic move for companies to strengthen their infrastructure and investment capabilities. Notably, U Mobile has been at the forefront of 5G development, collaborating with EDOTCO, a state-owned tower company, to spearhead the deployment of the second 5G network in Malaysia.

While Maxis seems keen on acquiring U Mobile, the latter has reportedly rejected the initial buyout offer. U Mobile, currently the third-largest mobile operator in Malaysia with over 9 million subscribers, is said to be valuing itself at more than RM10 billion (approximately USD 2.3 billion). Interestingly, U Mobile has been contemplating an initial public offering (IPO) since 2021, suggesting an alternative path towards growth and expansion.

MCMC Ready to Oversee Merger

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has expressed its readiness to establish guidelines should Maxis and U Mobile decide to proceed with the merger. The regulator’s focus will likely be on ensuring healthy competition within the market and preventing the creation of a monopoly that could stifle innovation and ultimately harm consumers.

The potential benefits of a Maxis-U Mobile merger are multifaceted. It could lead to a more efficient allocation of resources, reduced network duplication, and potentially lower prices for consumers. However, concerns exist about the potential reduction in competition, which could lead to higher prices and a lack of choice for users. Additionally, job losses within both companies due to potential redundancies remain a key concern.

The potential Maxis-U Mobile merger is shrouded in uncertainty at this point. While Maxis has expressed interest, U Mobile appears hesitant. Both companies have their own strategic considerations, and the MCMC’s regulatory oversight further complicates the picture. However, one thing is clear: if successful, this merger would significantly redraw the Malaysian telecommunications landscape.

It remains to be seen whether the Maxis-U Mobile deal will materialize. However, this potential consolidation serves as a reminder of the ongoing transformation within Malaysia’s telecommunications sector. As the race for 5G dominance heats up, further consolidation and strategic realignments within the industry are not out of the question. Whether these developments benefit consumers or stifle competition depends on the regulatory framework and the companies’ commitment to providing high-quality services at affordable prices.

Business, News

U Mobile and EDOTCO Join Forces to Accelerate Malaysia’s Second 5G Network Rollout

July 17, 2024 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

U Mobile and EDOTCO, Malaysia’s leading mobile and digital services provider and telecommunications infrastructure company respectively, have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expedite the deployment of the country’s second 5G network. This strategic partnership leverages EDOTCO’s extensive tower infrastructure and expertise to empower U Mobile’s efficient and cost-effective rollout, aligning with the government’s dual network model.

Under the MoU, U Mobile gains access to EDOTCO’s vast network of towers, streamlining the identification of optimal locations with the aid of data-driven analytics and artificial intelligence. This collaboration aims to accelerate site acquisition and permit processes through streamlined collaboration with state agencies. Additionally, EDOTCO will ensure timely delivery of these sites, enabling U Mobile to bring its 5G network online faster and expand coverage across the country.

The partnership extends beyond infrastructure access. U Mobile and EDOTCO will explore various cost-efficient commercial arrangements for diverse infrastructure needs. This includes exploring options like “built-to-suit” sites for specific requirements, co-location opportunities at existing towers, and upgrades to existing infrastructure. Indoor coverage solutions are also on the table, ensuring comprehensive network reach within buildings. This joint effort aims to create a competitive offering that facilitates a timely and cost-effective 5G rollout.

Both parties acknowledge the significance of this collaboration. Woon Ooi Yuen, Chief Technology Officer of U Mobile, emphasizes how EDOTCO’s infrastructure footprint will strengthen their position as a key player in deploying the second 5G network. He highlights their commitment to delivering affordable and high-quality 5G services to Malaysians, unlocking the economic potential of this technology for consumers, businesses, and the public sector alike.

Gayan Koralage, Director of Malaysia Business at EDOTCO, echoes this sentiment. He views the partnership as a critical step towards accelerating Malaysia’s journey into a 5G-powered future. EDOTCO, as the nation’s largest tower company, is committed to working with mobile network operators like U Mobile to provide superior telecommunication solutions and shape the future of connectivity in the region.

This MoU builds upon a well-established relationship between the two companies. U Mobile has been a valued partner of EDOTCO since the latter’s inception in 2012, being their first non-Axiata commercial customer. Recently, U Mobile renewed its lease agreement with EDOTCO and is working on on-site consolidation plans, aiming to enhance network aesthetics while reducing operational costs. This further streamlines the 5G rollout process by leveraging existing infrastructure efficiently.

The U Mobile and EDOTCO partnership is a promising step towards a faster and more cost-effective deployment of Malaysia’s second 5G network. By combining U Mobile’s expertise with EDOTCO’s extensive infrastructure and focus on collaboration, Malaysians can expect to experience the benefits of 5G technology sooner and at a more accessible price point.

Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle

U Mobile Celebrates Kaamatan with Free 5G Bus and Exciting Activities

May 28, 2024 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

U Mobile is kindling the spirit of Kaamatan to Sabah with Cara U Sabah: Kaamatan, a festive event happening from May 27th to 31st, 2024. Located right across from the Kadazan-Dusun Cultural Association (KDCA) where official Kaamatan celebrations unfold, Cara U Sabah: Kaamatan promises a fun-filled experience for all festivalgoers.

U Mobile ups the ante this Kaamatan by launching Sabah’s first-ever 5G Bus! This double-decker provides free shuttle services between Imago Mall and KDCA, operating from 10 am to 7 pm daily. But it’s not just a ride – it’s an experience. Powered by U Mobile’s robust 5G network, passengers can enjoy lightning-fast internet access throughout the journey.

The 5G Bus isn’t just about connectivity. Passengers can also enjoy VR gaming, sing their hearts out at karaoke, be entertained by live busker performances, and strike a pose at the neon-lit #OOTD Wall. Snap a photo with the wall, upload it to Instagram or TikTok, and you can win exciting prizes like 5G phones and earbuds! Feel free to stay onboard for multiple trips and experience everything the 5G Bus has to offer.

The 5G Bus drops you off at Cara U Sabah: Kaamatan, where even more excitement awaits. U Mobile is giving away 2,000 prizes throughout the event, including 5G phones, earbuds, Grab vouchers, and classic festival treats like popcorn and cotton candy. Meet your favourite ERA Sabah personalities, beauty queens, and content creators, and indulge in delicious offerings from GrabFood’s dedicated 5-star booth.

This event follows the recent opening of U Mobile’s first store in East Malaysia, located at Imago Shopping Mall, Kota Kinabalu. It’s another chapter in U Mobile’s ongoing commitment to expanding its brand presence and network in the region.

Ready to join the festivities? Visit the official Facebook event page for Cara U Sabah: Kaamatan and the first-ever 5G Bus!

News

U Mobile celebrates 5G network with Unlimited 5G Weekends

November 23, 2022 Thina Hareesh Leave a comment

U Mobile celebrates the commercial launch of its 5G network by offering unlimited internet over the weekends.

U Mobile Prepaid U35 users can enjoy unlimited 5G weekends — U Mobile prepaid users can enjoy unlimited usage of 5G network over the weekends

Every Saturday and Sunday, prepaid customers of U Mobile can enjoy unlimited usage with uncapped speeds on both 5G and 4G networks. All customers of the Prepaid U35 plan and newly launched Prepaid U40 plan can enjoy this perk, starting from midnight every Saturday, ending at 11.59pm every Sunday. To enjoy the use of the 5G network, customers need to be using a 5G compatible device and be within 5G network coverage area. All other customers can of course enjoy the 4G network instead. To experience Unlimited 5G Weekends, customers will need to redeem it weekly via the MyUMobile app.

U Mobile has also announced the launch of the new Prepaid U40 plan. Priced at RM40 monthly, the new plan offers unlimited calls and data as well as unlimited hotspot for sharing data across multiple devices. Unlimited hotspot can be purchased as an add-on feature of other prepaid plans such as U25 and U35 for RM 5, lasting 30 days. Prepaid customers who want to experience the 5G network uncapped speeds can also purchase 5G Daily or Weekly Plans starting from just RM3 per day.

For more information on U Mobile Unlimited 5G Weekends and services, visit the official U Mobile website.

News

Malaysia Finally Flips The Switch! 5G Activations Start in November

November 1, 2022 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

Malaysia is finally looking to get its 5G act together after over 2 years in limbo. While the country started its 5G conversation early in 2019, political instability, the pandemic and multiple changes in the plans for 5G have seen the country without widespread 5G connectivity until now.

In 2021, Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) was established to be the single “special-purpose” vehicle for the country’s rollout of 5G under the purview of the Ministry of Finance (MoF) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). Since then, DNB has been in a tumultuous state with telcos refusing terms and even members of the public and experts criticising DNB’s presence.

However, in late 2021, DNB did an initial launch of 5G with only two telcos – TM and YTL Communications (YES) onboard. Since then, little has changed with DNB continuing to set up 5G infrastructure while it struggled to reach a consensus even with the MoF’s invitation to telco to take up a stake in the vehicle. In early October 2022, an agreement was finally reached with two telcos – U Mobile and Maxis – abstaining from claiming a stake in DNB. DNB is now owned by MoF (35%), YTL Communications (20%), TM (20%), Celcom Axiata (12.5%) and Digi Telecommunications (12.5%). Celcom Axiata and Digi are in the midst of a merger following the agreement between parent companies Axiata and Telenor to merge operations. In light of this merger, the resulting company’s stake was limited to 25%. As of 31 October 2022, five of the six telcos in Malaysia have finally signed an access agreement with DNB for access to the 5G network.

With all the drama done with, Malaysia is finally getting widespread coverage starting with key areas in the country’s central region of Klang Valley. Aside from YES – which has already rolled out its 5G offerings – telcos are beginning to provide access to users starting on 1st November 2022. Digi and Maxis have yet to announce any offerings for 5G. We’ve summarised the usage and plans available in the table below for easy reference.

Telco	5G Rollout	Details
YTL Communications (YES)	Already available	5G is available on: 1. Infinte+ Postpaid plans 2. FT5G Unlimited Prepaid 3. Wireless Fibre 5G plans
TM	31 October 2022	TM Unifi Mobile users will be able to access the 5G network for free until 31 December 2022. After which it seems like they will need to register for the new Uni5G plans to access the 5G network. Prices for subscriptions start at MYR1.
Celcom Axiata	1 November 2022	5G access will be available to all Celcom subscribers according to their plans for free until December 2022. Plans included: 1. Celcom MEGA Lightning (80, 98, 128, ,158 and 188) 2. Celcom Xpax Postpaid (40 and 60) 3. Celcom Xpax Prepaid (35 and 45)
U Mobile	3 November 2022	U Mobile subscribers of their recently launched 5G Ready U Postpaid plans will be able to use the 5G network with compatible devices. Prepaid users on U25 and U35 plans will need to redeem a “Speed Booster” for free which entitles them to 1 hour of 5G connectivity a day with up to 30 hours a month.
Digi	TBA	TBA
Maxis	TBA	TBA

It’s worth noting that Maxis, one of the nation’s largest telcos, has yet to ratify the access agreement. The company has cited that its board is still accessing the requirements for the 5G Access Agreement. In its statement to the press, Maxis states, “Maxis is committed to playing an active role in bringing 5G to the nation in line with the Government’s digital ambitions, and to utilising Digital Nasional Berhad’s (DNB) network for 5G services. The Company looks forward to bringing the best of 5G services and solutions to its customers and is confident of launching 5G in the near future”. The company has also recently appointed a new CEO, Goh Seow Eng, who has served in Advanced Info Service (AIS) in Thailand. Goh will be taking the reigns from Gökhan Öğüt, who has been the CEO of Maxis for nearly 4 years.

So, it looks like Maxis and Digi customers can expect an announcement in the near future possibly with revamped plans.

News

U Mobile Reveals New 5G Ready U Postpaid Plans with 1TB of Data

August 18, 2022 Nur Jeevan Leave a comment

U Mobile is preparing its network for the forthcoming activation of 5G in Malaysia. In anticipation of the big flipping of the switch, the company is introducing new U Postpaid plans which are 5G ready and bring even more value to customers with larger data pools and the promise of better connectivity.

Photo 1 Launch photo — From Left: Norfazidah Abu Bakar (Chief Corporate Services Officer), Alex Tan Kok Leong (Chief Sales Officer), Navin Manian (Chief Marketing Officer), Tomkinson (Chief Information Officer), Woon Ooi Yuen (Chief Technology Officer) and Michael Tung (Head of Consumer Business) at the launch of the new U Postpaid Plans. (Source: U Mobile)

The telco is one of a handful that makes up the majority share of connectivity providers in Malaysia. However, they are the first in that group aside from YTL Communications’ Yes network to gear up for 5G. The new plans follow the recent sunsetting of 3G undertaken by U mobile. That said, U Mobile is boasting that it has better coverage of 98% of Malaysia. This figure is up from its previously reported 86%.

In addition to better coverage, the telco notes that recent trends show that the average Malaysian consumes 47% more data now with an average of 1.3 hours daily spent on the internet. This insight has led them to introduce what can only be called the most abundant data cap in Malaysia at the moment – 1,000GB or 1TB. The new data cap is a highlight of their new U Postpaid 98 which rounds up the current stable of U Postpaid plans at MYR98. For the lower U Postpaid 68 which costs MYR68, users will have access to 100GB of data a month while the lower U Postpaid 38 has a 30GB data cap at MYR38.

It’s not all about data with U Mobile either, with borders opening up, the telco is also considering the number of subscribers looking to go overseas. As a hallmark of both the U Postpaid 98 and U Postpaid 68, users will now be able to receive calls while roaming for free. This also complements their offering of 15GB of free roaming data in 63 locations around the world. These locations include Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, the Philippines, the United Kingdom, the USA and South Korea.

U Mobile King Kong Plan Table — U Postpaid Plan Breakdown. (Source: U Mobile)

Users looking to get the U Postpaid 98 Plan can also look forward to sharing the enormous 1TB data cap with up to six U FamilyShare lines. Each line will set you back an additional MYR38 – one of the lowest prices in the current market. All lines under the new U Postpaid plans come with unlimited calls to all networks. It is worth noting that there is a 5GB hotspot or tethering quota applicable across the board.

The U Postpaid 68 and U Postpaid 98 plans also have access to U Mobile’s new device plans: U Paylater and U Savemore. The U Paylater plan offers users the flexibility of a 0% instalment package to own their new devices while the U Savemore plan offers devices at a discounted price with MYR0 upfront payment. You will naturally need to pay for the device during purchase under the U Savemore plan. Both options are available to U Postpaid 98 customers while U Postpaid 68 subscribers can only opt for the U Savemeore plan. The MYR0 upfront payment is also subject to your payment history, it is only available to those with a good record. Of course, users will be tied to a contract to enjoy these benefits.

The new plans join the U Postpaid 38 plan that was launched earlier this year. Users on these plans will be able to enjoy 5G connectivity once it is available as well. The plans are already available commercially. To subscribe, simply go to U Mobile’s website or visit a U Mobile centre.

Editorial, techENT Download, Video

techENT Download || FCC Bans HUAWEI & ZTE

Video July 7, 2020 Darwin Sucipto Leave a comment

In this week’s TechENT Download, we see a whole lot happening including things going back to normal when it comes to Malaysia with more measures being relaxed and the techENT team heading back to our offices.

ASUS has also been busy releasing many laptops including new additions to the ZenBook series as well as a new ExpertBook B9 which is powered by Intel’s vPro processors. The ASUS VivoBook S series also got 2 new entries bringing more colour and functionality.

Telcos in Malaysia are extending their 1GB of free data to everyone with no time limitations. Subscribers can redeem their 1GB via their respective apps.

HUAWEI and ZTE face more problems as the American Federal Communications Commission goes on the record saying that they pose a threat to national security and privacy. This new development comes after more than a year of sanction placed against the companies by the current U.S. Administration. The new move will be hurting HUAWEI and ZTE’s 5G business as more countries take the notion seriously. What does this mean for smartphones?

Mobile, News

Free 1GB For Now, Free 1GB for Later, Free 1GB For the Entire Day!

July 2, 2020 Darwin Sucipto Leave a comment

The whole COVID-19 situation has made 2020 a little bit of a write off. There are at least a few things that made 2020 look a little better, some positivity. We now realise that we can be productive at home, we save a little bit more money and become a little more healthy by not eating out, prices of petrol goes down, we get our own little 1m bubble of personal space, and best of all – free data.

By now, everyone would have known that you can claim 1GB of free data daily from the major operators like Maxis, Digi, Celcom, UMobile, and Unifi Mobile. There are limitations to that though. The 1GB of data only applies from 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. in the evening.

1GB of data may not sound like much at first. Start using them for just emails and sharing documents and even get on a messenger app though and you might be pleasantly surprised. Without watching Netflix, YouTube, stream at high-quality with Spotify, or downloading games, 1GB is way more than enough. 8.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. is also the usual working time for the average Malaysian. So the time limit made plenty of sense. At least that was the case until June 2020.

From the 1^st of July, 2020l; which was yesterday, all the way until 31^st December 2020, users of the major telecommunication operators get to enjoy the 1GB of free data daily for 24 hours instead of a restricted time of the day. That also means you get about 30GB of free data in the week.

If your home is equipped with its own internet, you would find that 30GB is a little too much to spend. We wonder how some people can have 60GB of data and still not have enough. Still, we like free things and so we will gladly take it with open arms. For more information regarding this new policy, you can head over to your telco’s websites. No, it is not too late to switch over telco too; we did not mention which to which.

Program Launch and Availability

Strategic Move to Consolidate Two Rivals on the Same Page

MCMC Ready to Oversee Merger

Tech Your Way