Malaysia’s median 5G download speeds have dropped significantly from their peak in late 2023, according to a new report by internet performance analytics firm Ookla, highlighting growing pressure on the country’s single wholesale 5G network as user demand increases.
The report noted that Malaysia’s rapid and widespread adoption of 5G initially positioned the country among the world’s fastest 5G markets. Under the single wholesale network operated by Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), median download speeds reached an impressive 451.79 Mbps in late 2023.
However, as more users joined the network and data usage surged, median download speeds fell to 242.92 Mbps by the third quarter of 2025. Upload speeds also declined during the same period, dropping from 49.87 Mbps to 29.52 Mbps.
Despite the slowdown, Ookla said Malaysia’s 5G performance remains strong compared to many countries in the region. The country still records faster median download speeds than Japan, the Philippines and Thailand, but now trails behind regional leaders such as South Korea and neighbouring Singapore.
The report also pointed to coverage limitations as a key challenge. Although nearly 80 per cent of speed tests are now conducted on 5G-capable devices, users still spend almost two-thirds of their connected time on 4G networks. This is mainly due to inconsistent indoor and rural 5G coverage, which forces devices to revert to older networks.
To address these issues, the government has approved the rollout of a second 5G network aimed at easing network congestion, improving coverage, encouraging competition and enhancing overall user experience as Malaysia continues its digital transformation.
