Malaysia is aiming to advance its local capabilities in Level 3 autonomous driving technology by 2030, following recent remarks by Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), Sim Tze Tzin. The initiative focuses on strengthening domestic manufacturing in key areas such as chips, sensors, and software that are essential for self-driving systems.
To support this goal, improvements to supporting infrastructure will also be required. Local authorities and the Public Works Department (JKR) are expected to upgrade roads, signage, and related facilities to ensure readiness for Level 3 autonomous vehicle deployment. The Malaysian Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii) has been tasked with leading and coordinating the development of this ecosystem.
Level 3 autonomous driving allows vehicles to operate independently under certain conditions, while still requiring a human driver to take control when necessary. Although several local companies have already developed compatible systems, these technologies have not yet reached the commercialisation stage.
In parallel, discussions have already begun between the Digital Ministry and the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to establish a dedicated legal and regulatory framework for autonomous and driverless vehicles in Malaysia, laying the groundwork for future deployment and wider adoption.
U Mobile Partners with VIBE Mobile to Strengthen Malaysia’s MVNO Ecosystem
U Mobile has announced a new strategic partnership with VIBE Mobile, further expanding its Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) ecosystem in Malaysia and strengthening its position within the country’s evolving digital connectivity landscape.
Under the collaboration, U Mobile will provide VIBE Mobile with access to its next-generation 4G and 5G network infrastructure, including domestic connectivity, international services, and roaming capabilities. This enables VIBE Mobile to operate without building its own telecom infrastructure, leveraging U Mobile’s network instead.
VIBE Mobile, a new mobile service brand under Elite Links (M) Sdn Bhd, will focus on branding, service design, and customer engagement. The partnership model allows it to concentrate on building a digital lifestyle-driven mobile experience, while U Mobile manages the core network operations.
The approach reflects a broader global trend in the MVNO space, where emerging mobile brands differentiate themselves through lifestyle offerings, digital ecosystems, and targeted user experiences rather than investing in physical network infrastructure. VIBE Mobile CEO Joseph Lim stated that the company aims to position itself as a modern digital lifestyle brand aligned with how younger consumers communicate, consume content, and engage online.
The partnership also reinforces U Mobile’s strategy to strengthen its role in Malaysia’s 5G ecosystem. As the country’s newest 5G network provider, the company has been positioning itself as an enabler for digital services and businesses seeking faster market entry through shared infrastructure.
According to U Mobile representative Navin Manian, increased competition in the mobile sector ultimately benefits consumers through improved services, competitive pricing, and innovation. He also highlighted that U Mobile’s scalable and flexible next-generation network infrastructure allows partners like VIBE Mobile to develop tailored offerings for specific customer segments, further expanding Malaysia’s MVNO landscape.
Malaysia Targets Completion of Local Level 3 Self-Driving Technology by 2030
