KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s 5G network provider Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) has made history as the first in the world to achieve Level 4 autonomy for service assurance, setting a new global benchmark for network technology.
This landmark achievement was confirmed with official validation from TM Forum, the global industry association for digital business, under its Autonomous Network Level Assessment Validation (ANLAV) programme. The validation confirms that Malaysia’s 5G network can operate with minimal human intervention, thanks to its high degree of automation.
At the heart of this advancement is Ericsson’s Intent-based Operations (IBO) technology, driven by artificial intelligence (AI).
This system allows the network to predict and resolve issues before they occur, ensuring reliability and operational efficiency. The result is a highly advanced 5G network capable of supporting a wide range of applications, from everyday mobile services to more complex uses in sectors such as healthcare, smart cities, and autonomous transport.
In a statement, DNB chief technology officer Ken Tan, explained: “From the start, autonomous network technology has been a key part of DNB’s 5G plan. By integrating automation and AI into the technology as it developed, we’ve created a highly efficient network that provides world-class 5G at one of the lowest costs globally. The Level 4 validation confirms we’re on the right track and supports our vision for digital transformation.”
The Level 4 autonomy certification means that the network is capable not only of real-time self-monitoring and adjustments but also of making intelligent decisions to maintain optimal performance independently.
Bradley Mead of Ericsson said: “This validation shows that Ericsson and DNB are setting new standards in 5G automation. It ensures that the network can run smoothly, delivering secure and fast services for Malaysians. With Level 4 autonomy, Malaysia’s network operators can offer new and better services that meet the demands of the future.”
This achievement positions Malaysia as a leader in the digital era, enabling businesses and industries to utilise 5G for cutting-edge technologies like autonomous vehicles and smart city solutions.
It also facilitates smoother and more secure adoption of digital technologies across the country.
David Hägerbro, Head of Ericsson for Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, added: “This validation positions DNB as a leader in AI and automation, marking an important step in Malaysia’s digital transformation. We’re proud to work with DNB to make Malaysia a global digital leader.”
The Level 4 autonomy of DNB’s 5G network is set to unlock new opportunities for businesses and enhance public services, providing fast, reliable, and secure connectivity. The ongoing partnership between DNB and Ericsson continues to drive Malaysia’s vision of becoming a leader in digital innovation.
DNB was established in 2021 to accelerate Malaysia’s 5G rollout and promote economic growth. Its efforts aim to foster competition in the telecom industry and bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas. Malaysia’s 5G rollout is among the fastest globally, with DNB already covering over 80% of the country’s populated areas.
By 2030, 5G is expected to contribute RM150 billion to the economy and create 750,000 new high-skilled jobs, driving productivity and unlocking new opportunities. – October 16, 2025