The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has responded to criticism regarding their failure to enforce cheaper broadband services since the implementation of a new mandate in March.
The MCMC clarified that the mandate in question is the Mandatory Standard on Access Pricing (MSAP), which came into effect on March 1, 2023. They explained that the reduction in retail fixed broadband prices can only occur once access agreements have been reached between internet service providers (ISPs).
Currently, most providers have either published or are in the process of publishing a reference access offer (RAO), and negotiations for access agreements are expected to be completed by the end of September 2023. Price reductions can be expected thereafter.
The MCMC also highlighted its efforts to assist vulnerable groups in accessing affordable broadband plans. In early February 2023, the government launched the Pakej Perpaduan Fixed Internet Broadband, which offers lower-priced plans with speeds of up to 30 Mbps to the B40 group, veterans, the disabled and the elderly.
These plans are reportedly 22% cheaper than existing packages with the same download speeds and data limits.