KUALA LUMPUR, 16 October 2025 — Malaysia’s Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) has achieved a major global milestone, becoming the first 5G network in the world to receive TM Forum’s Level 4 Autonomy Validation in Service Assurance.
The recognition places Malaysia’s 5G network among the most advanced globally. The validation, conducted under TM Forum’s new Autonomous Network Level Assessment Validation (ANLAV) programme, is based on Ericsson’s AI-powered Intent-Based Operations (IBO) solution — a core component of DNB’s network design and management strategy.
AI-Driven Autonomy for Seamless Network Performance
At Level 4 autonomy, the 5G network can predict and resolve issues automatically, maintaining peak performance through continuous monitoring, analysis, and optimisation. The AI-driven system is capable of self-adjusting in real-time, reducing the need for human intervention while enhancing reliability, agility, and security.
This capability means Malaysia’s 5G network is ready to support enterprise-grade, mission-critical applications across industries such as public safety, healthcare, smart cities, autonomous transport, and advanced manufacturing.
Industry Leaders Praise Malaysia’s 5G Milestone
Ken Tan, Chief Technology Officer of DNB, said the validation affirms Malaysia’s commitment to building a highly efficient, future-ready network.
“Autonomous Network has been a core design principle of DNB’s 5G rollout from the start. By integrating automation and AI as the technology matured, we’ve created a world-class 5G network that delivers exceptional performance at one of the lowest costs globally. TM Forum’s Level 4 validation confirms that we are on the right path toward driving innovation and digital transformation at scale.”
Bradley Mead, Head of Ericsson Managed Network Services, said the achievement reinforces Malaysia’s leadership in network automation.
“This validation shows that Ericsson and DNB are setting new standards in 5G operations, ensuring agility, reliability, and secure connectivity. Achieving Level 4 autonomy empowers Malaysian network operators to deliver differentiated, high-value services based on cutting-edge autonomous technologies.”
David Hägerbro, Head of Ericsson Malaysia, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, added:
“TM Forum’s validation positions DNB as a global leader in AI, automation, and assurance. It’s a defining step in Malaysia’s digitalisation journey, and we are proud to partner with DNB in realising the country’s vision of becoming a leading digital nation.”
George Glass, Chief Technology Officer of the TM Forum, said that DNB and Ericsson’s collaboration reflects the industry’s progress toward greater automation.
“The achievement of Level 4 autonomy demonstrates how innovation and partnership can unlock new levels of intelligence and efficiency in network operations, paving the way for a more AI-powered and agile future.”
Powering Malaysia’s Digital Future
The validated throughput management capability, part of Ericsson’s Operations Engine, has been active in DNB’s network for two years. It uses Generative AI (GenAI) and Digital Twin simulations to manage complex network scenarios, identify conflicts, and execute optimal actions swiftly, ensuring reliable and differentiated connectivity across the national 5G Advanced network.
The result: Malaysia now stands at the forefront of global 5G innovation, combining AI, automation, and intent-based design to build a network capable of supporting the nation’s next wave of digital transformation.
