CEO of P1, Michael Lai (left) with Ms. Noora Mat Riffin, Associate Director of Product Strategies & Development.

T&A: Looks like Malaysia (and to the benefit of Singapore PRs and Singaporeans who visit relatives in Johor often) is upping the WiMAX ante with an additional coverage outside of the Klang Valley. This follows on Packet One Networks (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.’s, or P1’s successful launch in Klang Valley in August 2008 and the Wireless@Penang initiative in September 2008. While P1’s WiMAX services are now available in Johor Bahru, the capital city of the Johor state of Malaysia, P1 will roll out its services to the rest of the state through 2009 and 2010. (Editor opinions: 1)

Navin Danapal, Technical Editor, HWM Malaysia

Navin (HWM MY): P1 should embark on a few major education campaigns to educate the public on what exactly WiMAX is and the difference between Wi-Fi and WiMAX.

In terms of pricing, many find it comparable to TMNet’s Streamyx service and so, are wondering if going wireless is any better since the price you pay for the speed offered is the same. Many are doubtful if wireless can stand up to the frequent thunderstorms and rain, since past bad experiences with failed wireless services like Time Telecom’s Webbit, and Maxis wireless service doesn’t fare too well either for the price charged.

P1 W1MAX will be subscription priced from RM89 monthly for the 1.2Mbps package and RM199 for the 2.4Mbps package. A RM999 modem will be given out free for every new subscriber for a limited time.

Perhaps the area they will do well is with students and young adults in new homes who may have no need for a land line, which is the requirement for Streamyx. For those who use their mobile phones as their standard phone, a WiMAX solution does seem easier to go for.