Its minister, Fahmi Fadzil, said he was informed that only slightly more than 7 million out of 45 million accounts in Malaysia have 5G-ready devices.

As of last month, Malaysia’s 5G network coverage in populated areas stands at 70.2%, with 5G subscriptions totalling 2.49 million, which translates to a 7.4% penetration rate.

“So, even if we have an immediate opt-in, not everyone can use 5G right away,” he told reporters after the launching of Petronas’s private 5G network here today..

“So that’s why programmes such as 5G Rahmah would be helpful, particularly for the B40, to purchase or procure 5G devices so that they can use 5G.”

In August, Fahmi had said his wife was reluctant to switch to 5G due to the additional costs. Some telcos are reportedly charging between RM3 and RM20 more for 5G access.

At that time, he had said his ministry would also be meeting with the MNOs to address reports on telcos imposing extra charges for 5G subscriptions.

In an update, Fahmi said his ministry’s deputy secretary-general has engaged with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the MNOs on the charges.

“We hope that within the next few weeks, there’s some update on this matter,” he said.