KUALA LUMPUR, March 6 — Malaysian telecommunications companies CelcomDigi Bhd and Maxis Bhd have each paid RM327.87 million to acquire shares in Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) from the Minister of Finance Incorporated (MoF Inc).
The payment also includes the settlement of an outstanding loan previously provided by MoF Inc to the state-backed 5G infrastructure company, according to reports.
Strengthening Private Sector Participation in 5G
The transaction represents part of the Malaysian government’s plan to gradually transfer ownership of DNB to private telecommunications companies. DNB was originally established as a special-purpose vehicle under the government to build and operate Malaysia’s nationwide 5G network infrastructure.
By increasing private sector participation, the government aims to ensure more efficient development and management of the country’s digital infrastructure while maintaining a competitive telecommunications market.
Under the arrangement, telecommunications firms such as CelcomDigi and Maxis will hold larger stakes in the company responsible for rolling out Malaysia’s 5G network.
Background of the DNB Ownership Structure
Digital Nasional Bhd was initially created to deploy a single nationwide wholesale 5G network that telecommunications providers could access. The model was designed to reduce infrastructure duplication and accelerate the rollout of high-speed mobile connectivity across Malaysia.
Over time, the government moved toward a dual wholesale network model, allowing additional operators to participate in building and managing 5G infrastructure in the country. This policy shift aimed to increase competition while ensuring nationwide coverage.
As part of this restructuring, MoF Inc exercised its put option, requiring existing investor shareholders to purchase its remaining shares and loan interests in DNB.
Each investor shareholder — including CelcomDigi and Maxis — was required to pay RM327.87 million for their respective portions of the shares and associated financial commitments.
Boost for Malaysia’s Digital Economy
Industry analysts say the transfer of shares to major telecom operators could accelerate the expansion of 5G services across Malaysia, benefiting both businesses and consumers.
CelcomDigi, Malaysia’s largest mobile network operator with millions of subscribers nationwide, has been actively expanding its digital services and infrastructure capabilities to support the next phase of connectivity.
Stronger private sector involvement is expected to improve operational efficiency and help drive faster innovation in areas such as smart cities, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
The restructuring of DNB’s ownership is part of Malaysia’s broader strategy to position itself as a regional digital hub while supporting the growth of advanced technologies powered by high-speed connectivity.
Experts believe the stronger involvement of major telecom operators could help accelerate nationwide 5G adoption and strengthen Malaysia’s digital infrastructure, supporting economic growth and technological development in the years ahead.
As the country continues expanding its 5G coverage, industry players are expected to focus on improving network performance, expanding enterprise services, and enabling new digital innovations across multiple sectors.
