Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has urged Malaysian telecom giant Axiata to launch 5G services in Bangladesh and invest in the country’s data centers. During a meeting, Yunus emphasized the need for high-speed internet to support Bangladesh’s economic growth and digital ambitions, assuring that the interim government is simplifying licensing to attract investment. Axiata’s Group CEO Vivek Sood expressed interest in 5G rollout and data center ventures but cited high spectrum costs and a fragmented licensing regime as challenges. Axiata has invested about $200 million annually in Bangladesh and conducted 5G trials, but fibre optic expansion is needed for full deployment. The meeting was attended by senior government officials and Axiata executives.
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has called on Malaysian telecommunications giant Axiata to roll out 5G services in Bangladesh and invest in the nation’s emerging data center sector.
Speaking at a high-level meeting, Yunus underscored that high-speed internet is vital for Bangladesh’s growing economy and for attracting global investment into its expanding digital landscape. He assured that the interim government is working to streamline licensing regimes, creating a more business-friendly environment for top telecom operators.
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Axiata’s Position on 5G Rollout
Vivek Sood, Group CEO of Axiata Berhad – parent company of mobile operator Robi – revealed that the company had already conducted a 5G trial in Bangladesh. However, he stressed that the expansion of the fibre optic network is critical for a nationwide 5G launch.
Sood highlighted that Robi has been investing approximately $200 million annually in Bangladesh in recent years and remains open to investing further in 5G services. However, he pointed out two major challenges affecting foreign investment decisions:
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High spectrum fees
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Fragmented licensing regime
He also confirmed Axiata’s interest in joint venture partnerships for establishing data centres in Bangladesh.
Strengthening Collaboration
Yunus called for closer cooperation between the private sector and regulators, stating:
“The most important thing is to come closer and understand each other.”
The Axiata delegation was led by Shahril Ridza Ridzuan, Chairman and Independent Non-Executive Director of the Axiata Group. Other participants included:
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Foreign Adviser Md Touhid Hossain
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Law Adviser Asif Nazrul
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Energy Adviser Fouzul Kabir Khan
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Chief Adviser’s Special Envoy Lutfey Siddiqi
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BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashik Mahmud bin Harun
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Senior Secretary for SDG Affairs Lamiya Morshed
From Axiata’s side, Foong Chee Keong, Group Chief Regulatory and Government Affairs Officer, and Thomas Hundt, Group Chief Business and Technology Officer, were also present.
Source: TBS
