Sunwave and Altel Launch Malaysia’s First Private 5G Port Project

PENANG, Malaysia, October 17, 2026 — Penang Port has marked a major milestone in its digital transformation with the launch of Malaysia’s first Private 5G network for a port, using dedicated spectrum. The network was developed by Altel in collaboration with Sunwave Communications, which served as the project’s technology partner, to provide dedicated connectivity for port operations and future smart port applications.

The launch was officiated by YB Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil, Malaysia’s Minister of Communications, who highlighted the potential of Private 5G to reduce operating costs, increase productivity and improve safety in industrial operations.

Enabling Smarter Port Operations

Using dedicated C-band spectrum, the network covers approximately 2.5 sq km across the North Butterworth Container Terminal (NBCT) and Butterworth Deep Water Wharves (BDWW), with provisions for future expansion. Its 5G core and related port applications are hosted within the port, allowing the network to operate independently of public mobile networks and giving the port greater control over network performance and operational data.

At the launch event, Sunwave and Altel demonstrated Private 5G connectivity by connecting a robotic inspection dog and high-definition video surveillance equipment to the network, enabling real-time video and data transmission in a port environment.

The network also lays the groundwork for future smart port applications, including autonomous prime movers, remotely operated cranes and gantries, AI-powered video analytics and intelligent surveillance. These capabilities can support Penang Port’s efforts to improve operational efficiency, strengthen security and advance its digital transformation.

The project marks an important step in the adoption of Private 5G across Malaysia’s critical infrastructure sector, demonstrating how collaboration between communications providers, technology partners and port operators can enable smarter, more connected industrial operations.

Penang Port is a member of MMC Group, while Altel Communications is a subsidiary of Tradewinds Group Malaysia.