Asia ICT

Efforts are under way to boost Indonesia’s relatively low levels of internet penetration, with both the public and private sector taking steps to increase access in under-served segments of the market.

Having kept a tight lid on access to information for many years, Myanmar is now opening its doors to new technologies, bringing a tidal wave of social empowerment. However, quality control both in terms of technology and content is likely to be the main challenge going forward.

Following the launch of Malaysia’s first long-term evolution (LTE) mobile telephone network in January, this year should see a rush to market as major operators look to expand their data earnings. The rollout of new technologies and products offered by telecoms firms in Malaysia is in line with growth in the region, which has ambitions to become a global leader in mobile broadband access.

High-speed internet services should act as a key driver in Brunei Darussalam’s bid to attract investment and transform itself into a knowledge-based economy, although industry experts say further regulatory reform will accelerate ICT uptake and boost penetration.

More than 40 telecoms giants from around the globe are vying for the opportunity to access Myanmar’s untapped market following a government invitation in January to submit expressions of interest (EoIs). Myanmar’s low penetration rates and large population are already generating high interest among industry players, as is the recently-announced investigation into corruption at the Telecoms Ministry.

The entry of a new player and an increasingly assertive stance on consumer rights protection by Papua New Guinea’s (PNG’s) telecommunications regulator bode well for competition in the sector. However, a continually evolving playing field and objections to new policies from telecoms operators may create considerable challenges for the regulatory body as it attempts to improve pricing and services.