Travellers flying via KLIA Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 (aka KLIA 2) can look forward to improved 5G connectivity indoors as Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) and EDOTCO Group have announced the successful completion of the airports’ 5G In-Building Solutions (IBS). The new milestone is said to mark a significant step in enhancing connectivity and improving the digital experience for travellers and visitors as Malaysia begins its ASEAN Chairmanship this year.
The IBS installation was completed within two months and was activated on Friday during the handover ceremony between DNB, EDOTCO and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB).
EDOTCO is Malaysia Airports’ preferred partner in deploying telco infrastructure within the 10km x 10km radius of KLIA area. As of January 2025, EDOTCO has successfully delivered 52 5G in-building connectivity solutions across Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 along with 9 outdoor 5G poles, to provide enhanced connectivity throughout the KLIA vicinity.
With 5G IBS, users can enjoy faster and reliable connectivity in public and commercial buildings. The indoor coverage also enables businesses and enterprises to implement new 5G use cases to improve operational efficiency and deliver better value to their customers.
Some of the showcased 5G use cases include an autonomous buggy by local technology developer eMooVit and 5G-AI powered autonomous last-mile delivery robot used by CelcomDigi. When deployed, these solutions are capable of ensuring safe, efficient and timely delivery of goods or luggage, which would help reduce cost and reliance on manual labour. As a result, the airport can benefit from improved customer experience with contactless and dependable logistics, while promoting sustainability from lower carbon emissions.
According to DNB, they currently have 5G IBS at a total of 73 sites covering strategic and government facilities. This includes Senai International Airport, Penang International Airport, Setia Spice Arena, Setia Spice Convention Centre, KOMTAR, KL Sentral, Institut Jantung Negara (IJN), PPUM, PPUKM, Hospital Putrajaya, Hospital Selayang, Hospital Sg Buloh, Hospital Shah Alam, and various Urban Transformation Centres (UTCs).
DNB CEO Datuk Azman said, “Through collaboration with Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and building owners, DNB’s key focus this year is to enhance 5G indoor coverage and connectivity. The installation at KLIA and KLIA2 is a significant milestone, with plans to extend 5G IBS to other key locations.”
Meanwhile, EDOTCO Group CEO, Adlan Tajudin said, “Our commitment to providing innovative, sustainable infrastructure augurs well with Malaysia’s vision of becoming a digital hub. The activation of 5G IBS at KLIA and KLIA2 marks another significant step forward in our journey, and together, we are paving the way for seamless, reliable connectivity that supports both economic growth and an enhanced user experience.”
Malaysia Airports CIO, VijayKumar Dayinde said, “The integration of 5G infrastructure in KLIA is a transformative upgrade that enhances operational efficiency and passenger convenience by leveraging 5G’s speed, low latency, and high data capacity. It supports IoT devices, smart sensors, and advanced digital solutions, enabling us to meet evolving demands while prioritising efficiency, satisfaction, and resilience.”
