Chief Adviser Calls for Axiata’s Aggressive 5G and Data Centre Drive in Bangladesh

Malaysia’s leading telecom conglomerate, Axiata, has been urged to launch 5G services and invest in data centres in Bangladesh through its local operator, Robi. The call came from Chief Adviser of the Interim Government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, during a courtesy meeting with Axiata Group Chairman Shahril Ridza Ridzuan on Tuesday, August 12.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, Muhammad Fawzul Kabir Khan, Special Envoy to the Chief Adviser Lutfe Siddique, BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmood Bin Harun, and Senior Secretary on SDG Affairs Lamia Morshed were present.

Also in attendance from Axiata were Group Chief Corporate and Government Affairs Officer Foong Chee Kiong and Group Chief Business and Technology Officer Thomas Hundt.

According to the Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary, Abul Kalam Azad Majumder, Professor Yunus emphasised that “high-speed internet is essential for the country’s growing economy and digital transformation.” He noted that the government is simplifying the licensing process to create a more business-friendly environment for foreign investors.

The Chief Adviser also underscored the importance of “close collaboration between the private sector and regulatory bodies.”

Axiata Group CEO Vivek Sood stated that the company has already completed 5G trials in Bangladesh and expressed willingness to invest in the service. However, he pointed out that “expansion of the country’s fibre optic network is crucial for the full launch of 5G.”

He further said that in recent years, Axiata has invested nearly USD 200 million in Bangladesh and is interested in joint ventures for data centres. However, he cautioned that “high spectrum fees and complex licensing procedures may hinder foreign investment.”