Malaysia’s Maxis Communications has expanded its HSDPA network to Penang. The company said it has spent MYR5 million (USD1.4 million) to deploy 3.5G services covering approximately 20,000 households in the region. It says it will invest MYR1.5 billion (USD408 million) in 3G and 3.5G over the next three years, during which time it expects to extend 3G coverage to 60% of the population.

According to TeleGeography’s GlobalComms database, Maxis launched the country’s first commercial HSDPA network in the Klang Valley in late September 2006, offering download connections at up to 768kbps. The only service currently available is a residential internet offering, Maxis Broadband, but more conventional wireless services will follow shortly. Two HSDPA packages are available, both bundled with a fixed line telephony service, charged at MYR68 and MYR98 per month respectively, inclusive of modem rental. The MYR68 package offers download speeds of up to 384kbps, while the latter offers up to 768kbps. Both are liable for a one time MYR100 activation fee and a MYR88 installation charge, and are subject to an 18-month contract.

Source-  telegeography Wireless Mobile Telecom