Malaysian Operator Launches HSPA Enabled 3G Network

Malaysian mobile network operator, DiGi Telecommunications has launched its HSPA network - covering Damansara, Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya, Sunway and Bangsar. Customers in other key areas of Klang Valley will be able to experience DiGi's broadband service within weeks. DiGi plans to cover more than 1,000 zones at a minimum of 5 market centres by the end of this year.

Speaking at the official launch, Johan Dennelind chief executive officer addressed the need to shake up the current broadband user experience.

"It is about getting it right for the customers with meaningful differences to make broadband a little nicer. We are challenged to be the initiator of change in the broadband market the same way we did in voice, which we are excited to do.

"We have capitalised on the broadband experience of others including Telenor's best practices. Our go-to-market strategies turn the tables on market norms with a fresh approach to broadband that puts customer experience as a top priority," said Dennelind. Telenor owns 49% of the company, with the rest floated on the local stockmarket.

DiGi expects to be able to offer average speeds of 700Kbps - based on the network's theoretical 14.4Mbps capability.

"Our focus will be to deliver quality experience as we roll-out. With broadband penetration of just 21.2% as of end 2008, there is a lot of room to grow. We are confident of being a strong contributor towards increasing broadband penetration in the country. Our aim is to get a third of the broadband market share within the next 5 years," said Dennelind.

To mark its entry into broadband, DiGi will first introduce 3G broadband for PCs while 3G voice and data services for mobile phones will be launched at a later date. DiGi looks to invest RM300-400 million (US$80-110 million) annually for the next 3 years on its 3G mobile broadband roll-out.

Posted to the site on 19th March 2009