DNB’s response to Channel News Asia article on Malaysia’s 5G roll-out

• DNB denies claims, rejects assertions of misconduct in its procurement practices
• Independent, international expert solutions firms and 50 experts were engaged in the tender approach.

Digital Nasional Berhad ( DNB) has released a statement addressing several misleading claims made by Channel News Asia in an article titled “Malaysia’s billion-dollar 5G roll-out stumbles as deal breaks down between powerful telcos, state-owned operator, ” published on April 19, 2024, and subsequently reported by other media outlets.

The post alleged that DNB lacked accountability in its internal operations, especially concerning the giving of contracts to third-party vendors, especially for Ericsson’s 5G networking equipment, software procurement, and a potentially beneficial cloud services platform.

DNB responds with a strong refutation of these claims and rejects any claims that its leadership and procurement practices were impure. The organization argues that its sweet and procurement procedures adhere to the most stringent management standards and best practices.

DNB claims that it has consistently maintained transparency and openness when awarding bids and contracts, and that it has covered these issues in-depth with the media and Parliament, consistently refuting the allegations.

The commitment for 5G network technology was awarded based on a thorough assessment process, with Ericsson receiving the highest score across all requirements, according to DNB. A small independent international professional services organization organized the delicate operation, which included nearly 50 local and international experts from ten nations with 5G network rollout experience. The procedure underwent several assessments, including by the Malaysian Cabinet in 2022 and 2023.

The procedure is ongoing, and DNB clearly refutes any contradictory claims, but is unable to make certain comments due to security limitations. DNB stresses the importance of verifying published studies based on reliable data as a common utility serving the public interest.

DNB reiterates its commitment to delivering one of the best-performing and most trusted 5G networks worldwide, expediting its implementation within resources, and fostering increased 5G implementation across industries, enterprises, and the public to promote Malaysia’s online change.