Malaysia's 5G speed is experiencing a significant slowdown, nearly halving from its peak, even as the technology rapidly expands. This is a clear sign that the network is feeling the pressure of its own success. Let's dive into what's happening and what it means for users.
According to a recent report from Ookla, Malaysia initially impressed the world with its 5G rollout, boasting some of the fastest speeds globally. In late 2023, the median download speed hit an impressive 451.79 Mbps. But here's where things get interesting...
As more users jumped on board, the network, managed by Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), began to show strain. By the third quarter of 2025, that blazing speed had dropped to 242.92 Mbps. Upload speeds also took a hit, falling from 49.87 Mbps to 29.52 Mbps.
But is this a cause for panic? Not necessarily. Despite the slowdown, Malaysia's 5G performance remains competitive. It still outpaces countries like Japan (124.11 Mbps), the Philippines (120.16 Mbps), and Thailand (169.35 Mbps). However, it now lags behind regional leaders such as South Korea (over 528 Mbps) and Singapore (349.19 Mbps).
And this is the part most people miss... The report also points out a critical issue: coverage gaps. Even though nearly 80% of speed tests are done on 5G-capable devices, users are still spending about two-thirds of their time on 4G networks. Why? Because of inconsistent coverage, particularly indoors and in rural areas, forcing devices to switch back to the older network.
To tackle these challenges, the government has given the green light to a second 5G network. This move aims to improve network reliability, encourage competition, and ultimately give users a better experience as Malaysia continues its digital transformation.
What do you think about the current 5G situation in Malaysia? Do you believe the new network will solve these issues, or are there other factors at play? Share your thoughts in the comments!
