Telecom operator CTM says in a recent statement that it is awaiting a 5G network licence from the government and hopes to start commercial operation within this year, with its 5G network’s “non-standalone (NSA) and standalone (SA) architectures”, pointing out that both have been “completely operational” and ready since June 2021.
Industry sources have pointed out that Macau is the only city in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) that does not have an operating 5G network.
The statement noted that CTM has already invested over 600 million patacas in 5G since 2020. The statement added that the network will “ensure full indoor and outdoor coverage” of Macau once the operating licence is obtained.
The licensing of 5G, according to the statement, has been “considerably delayed” due to “known works and studies to modernise the applicable legal and regulatory framework”. CTM did not elaborate.
Moreover, the statement said that 5G technology will enable the use of the Internet of Things (IoT) and progress advanced technologies such as augmented reality (AR), big data and artificial intelligence (AI), among others.
During a media visit hosted by the CTM Executive Committee to the company’s headquarters in Taipa yesterday, where projects to make 5G available in the city were discussed, Vice President of CTM Network Services Declan Leong Pui Hong underlined that 5G is necessary to achieve Internet of Things (IoT) to connect everything with 5G and support the development of a smart city and smart life environment.
Vice President of CTM Network Services Declan Leong Pui Hong gives a presentation during a media visit hosted by the CTM Executive Committee to the telecom operator’s headquarters in Taipa yesterday. Photo: Camy Tam
