Malaysian regulator MCMC has slapped the wrist of all three of the nation's major mobile operators, in response to an alleged increase in complaints from consumers about dropped calls.
The regulator announced it has issued fines totalling 190,000 ringgit ($61,000).
DiGi was served four fines totalling 100,000 ringgit, Celcom Axiata was hit with three fines worth 60,000 ringgit, and Maxis Mobile with two fines amounting to 30,000 ringgit.
MCMC calculated the fines based on tests made in multiple locations across Malaysia, and said it is conducting more tests into the quality of service provided by the operators.
MCMC chairman Dato' Mohamed Sharil Tarmizi said the regulator had “no choice” but to fine the operators.
“The telcos were given ample time and reminders to resolve complaints received from their customers concerning the increased occurrence of dropped calls lately,” he said. “The public should not have to tolerate the increasing incidence of dropped calls or poor quality of service.”
Sharil acknowledged that operators have been making efforts to improve their quality of service, but said the upgrade process needs to be sped up.