Network infrastructure of all telcos to be consolidated

 

The Government’s initiative to transform the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector, by consolidating Brunei’s telecommunications network infrastructure into one company – Unified National Networks Sdn Bhd (UNN), is underway.

In an increasingly digital world, the demand for data-driven growth will soon make existing infrastructure and capabilities obsolete. Hence, it is critical for Brunei to upgrade its digital infrastructure to meet this challenge. Since the announcement of the transformation in February, UNN is working with telecommunications companies (TelCos) to combine their fixed and mobile networks, to be more resilient and to provide better service quality in the short term, leading to a best-in-class high-speed broadband network for the future. The networks are being consolidated and will be transferred to UNN by the end of this year.

Coupled with investment in systems, technology, and added spectrum, this will facilitate the transformation of the TelCos to SalesCos with equal access to 4G networks and fiber-to-the-home broadband services. UNN’s priority is to build a nationwide state-of-the-art, 5G-ready, fixed-mobile convergent wholesale network for SalesCos to provide more innovative, faster and cheaper products and services on a retail basis to individuals and corporate customers.

The Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC), Authority for Info-communications Technology Industry of Brunei Darussalam (AITI), Darussalam Assets and the TelCos are working together to execute this wholesale-retail transformation to place Brunei amongst the digital leaders in the region. As a result, Brunei consumers and businesses will benefit from faster speeds, wider coverage, and better choices, at more affordable prices. 

It is recognized that change affects any organization, government or individual. However, without change, Brunei will lose the competitive edge and fail to grasp future opportunities. The Government recognizes that the evolution of the ICT sector is the core of creating an ecosystem that supports Brunei’s long-term digital aspirations. Achieving Smart Nation, Smart City, Smart Home, Smart Society – this is part of the Whole of Nation approach towards achieving Wawasan Brunei 2035.

NetCo PMO
5 July 2019