KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 1 (Bernama) -- Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) has completed a RM5.2 billion syndicated Islamic term financing exercise, marking a significant step in its transition to the next phase of its dual 5G network framework.
In a statement today, DNB said the financing strengthens its long-term financial position and facilitates the planned exit of Minister of Finance Inc (MOF Inc) as an ordinary shareholder and the transition to equal ownership among its mobile network operator (MNO) shareholders, expected in early fourth quarter 2026.
The MNO shareholders include CelcomDigi Bhd through Infranation Sdn Bhd, Maxis Broadband Sdn Bhd and YTL Power International Bhd, it said.
MOF Inc. will retain a special share in DNB to safeguard national interests, ensuring continued stewardship of key strategic matters while enabling the company to advance its next phase of development, said DNB.
“The syndicated financing exercise includes the refinancing of DNB’s Government Guarantee Revolving Credit Facility, which expired on Sept 29, 2026, and establishes a sustainable long-term funding structure to support the company’s future growth,” it added.
DNB stated that the completion of financing aligns with the award of the full 100MHz of the 3.3–3.4GHz spectrum. Additionally, it involves the conversion of its entire 240MHz spectrum holding to a Spectrum Assignment, which will take effect today, following its issuance by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
“The spectrum would increase network capacity and support technologies including Massive MIMO, carrier aggregation, 5G Advanced and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven network capabilities.
“Together, the financing and spectrum assignment strengthen DNB’s ability to enhance network quality and resilience, support future demand, and advance Malaysia’s digital economy ambitions,” it said.
DNB chief executive officer Datuk Azman Ismail said this financing provides the company with a sustainable platform to operate on its own, continue investing in network enhancement and capacity expansion, and leverage its expanded spectrum assets.
“As Malaysia progresses under the dual network framework, DNB remains committed to providing world-class digital infrastructure that supports our shareholders, customers, enterprises and government agencies.
“With strong financing, enhanced spectrum resources and a proven nationwide 5G platform, DNB is well positioned to support the government’s AI Nation aspirations and help power Malaysia’s next phase of digital growth,” he said.
In a separate statement, CelcomDigi said the award of DNB’s 5G spectrum over a 15-year period will provide further long-term certainty over spectrum availability and costs, supporting more effective network planning and investment.
“With 200MHz of contiguous mid-band spectrum, DNB is well positioned to meet growing consumer and enterprise demand, while providing a strong foundation to modernise the network, expand indoor building solutions (IBS), enhance coverage and maximise spectrum utilisation.
“Combined with CelcomDigi’s extensive network footprint and network infrastructure, this creates further opportunities to enhance 5G capacity, coverage and customer experience,” it said.
CelcomDigi said it would bring its scale, nationwide network assets and more than 30 years of telecommunications experience to support DNB – leveraging existing infrastructure, sites and capabilities to drive cost efficiencies, support coverage expansion and accelerate indoor 5G deployment.
-- BERNAMA