PETALING JAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has addressed concerns about the delay in cheaper broadband prices following the implementation of the latest Standard on Access Pricing (MSAP) on March 1. According to the MCMC, users can expect reduced prices after finalizing access agreements with Internet service providers (ISPs), which is anticipated to be completed by the end of September.
The MCMC issued this statement in response to a report from a local tech portal questioning the absence of price reductions four months after the MSAP agreement took effect. Back in 2018, when Gobind Singh Deo was the Communications and Multimedia Minister, the initial MSAP implementation resulted in up to a 30% reduction in entry-level broadband plan prices.
“While the MSAP came into effect on March 1st, 2023, the MCMC clarifies that the actual reduction in broadband prices can only occur after the service providers finalize the access agreements,” stated the regulatory body in its statement.
Most access providers have already published or are in the process of publishing their reference access offer (RAO), which will serve as the basis for negotiation in establishing the access agreements, added the MCMC.
“Hence, the reduction in broadband service prices can be expected after the conclusion of these access agreements. Once the agreements are finalized, service providers will be able to adjust their retail fixed broadband prices accordingly, potentially leading to cost reductions for consumers,” the MCMC explained.
In addition, the MCMC highlighted that the government launched the Pakej Perpaduan Fixed Internet Broadband in February to assist low-income groups. Since its introduction, 6,066 users have already enrolled in the 30Mbps plan, priced at RM69 per month.
Credit: The Star : Tech Feed
