U Mobile driving Malaysia’s digital economic growth with ULTRA5G indoor coverage

U Mobile is driving Malaysia's digital economic growth with its ULTRA5G indoor coverage, positioning the country as a leader in the transition towards 5G-Advanced (5G-A) and mobile AI. This strategic shift, explored during a recent WinWin Live interview at MWC 2026, involves embracing an "Indoor First" strategy for 5G, which is redefining Malaysia's digital infrastructure.

U Mobile's Senior General Manager and Head of Network Programs and Rollout, Jaime Chee, and Huawei's President of Huawei's SmallCell Product Line, Dr. Philip Song, discussed the importance of prioritizing indoor wireless coverage. They highlighted that most mobile usage takes place indoors, yet ensuring a high-quality network experience in such environments remains a significant challenge. Traditional wireless technologies often use higher frequency bands that have weaker penetration, making indoor coverage a critical area for improvement.

Chee emphasized that up to 80% of mobile data traffic occurs indoors, whether in shopping malls, offices, transportation hubs, or residences. To fulfill the promise of "ubiquitous" high-quality connectivity, delivering an excellent indoor 5G experience is essential. U Mobile's "ULTRA5G" brand represents a proactive approach to addressing this challenge and providing a differentiated user experience.

The company has pledged to roll out over 600 in-building coverage (IBC) sites by the second half of 2029, aiming to deliver "full-fledged and comprehensive coverage" that serves as the foundation for mobile AI and 5G-A experiences throughout these environments. This ambitious plan underscores U Mobile's commitment to leading the way in Malaysia's digital transformation.

The technical backbone of this rollout is Huawei's 4G/5G integrated digital indoor solution (DIS). Unlike traditional Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS), which often struggle with high traffic loads and lack scalability, the DIS approach provides a more efficient and adaptable solution. By leveraging Huawei's expertise, U Mobile is able to deploy a robust network that can handle the demands of indoor environments, ensuring seamless connectivity for users.

This strategic shift towards an "Indoor First" approach not only enhances the user experience but also supports the growth of mobile AI and 5G-A technologies. As Malaysia continues to embrace digital transformation, U Mobile's leadership in indoor 5G coverage is poised to drive economic growth and position the nation as a pioneer in the global 5G market. The collaboration between U Mobile and Huawei highlights the importance of innovation and investment in infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of a digitally connected society.

In conclusion, U Mobile's commitment to delivering ULTRA5G indoor coverage is a game-changer for Malaysia's digital economy. By prioritizing indoor wireless supremacy, the company is not only improving the user experience but also laying the groundwork for the future of mobile connectivity. With a robust network infrastructure and a focus on 5G-A and mobile AI, U Mobile is set to lead the way in shaping Malaysia's digital landscape and driving economic growth in the years to come.