On August 19, 2025, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) released official guidelines for the use of TV White Space (TVWS) the unutilized radio spectrum in the 470 MHz to 694 MHz UHF band, primarily allocated for terrestrial TV broadcasting. These new guidelines provide a structured regulatory framework to govern how this spectrum can be used for secondary applications without causing interference to incumbent services.
Spectrum Use and Technical Parameters
TVWS spectrum in Malaysia is only available on a non-interference and non-protection basis, meaning TV broadcasting services remain the primary users and cannot be disrupted. The band currently available for TVWS operation spans from 470 MHz to 606 MHz, and use beyond this range may be considered pending availability.
Approved device types include:
Base Stations (Fixed): Max EIRP of 16 Watts
Customer Premises Equipment (Fixed/Mobile): Max EIRP of 4 Watts
Operations are limited to terrestrial applications; use of TVWS spectrum on airborne platforms is prohibited.
Channel assignments follow an 8 MHz bandwidth plan, as outlined in MCMC’s channelling table. However, availability of contiguous channels is not guaranteed.
Licensing and Assignment Requirements
Only entities incorporated in Malaysia or relevant public authorities are eligible to apply for TVWS spectrum under the Apparatus Assignment (AA) model. Applications must align with one of two service types Fixed or Mobile and must use the corresponding AA application forms.
All applicants are required to:
Hold a valid license under the Communications and Multimedia Act
Pay both a fixed application fee and variable spectrum usage fees
Undergo technical evaluation by MCMC
Ensure compliance with any border coordination protocols (e.g., with Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand)
MCMC retains full discretion over spectrum assignment, technical parameters, and interference mitigation measures. Spectrum rights are subject to review and do not confer protection or exclusivity against future spectrum reallocation.
Equipment Certification Rules
TVWS communications equipment must be certified under the Communications and Multimedia (Technical Standards) Regulations 2000. Certification may be obtained via two routes:
Type Approval for commercial deployment
Special Approval for experimental or private use
All certifications must comply with registered technical codes and be issued by a recognized certifying body, such as SIRIM QAS International. Importantly, certification does not authorize use; a valid AA is still required to operate the equipment.
Documentation and Submission
AA applications must include:
Completed AA form and payment of RM60 (fee waived for Federal Government)
Company registration and relevant licensing documents
Equipment technical specifications and network topology
Map of operational area and radius
Copy of Certificate of Conformity from SIRIM or proof of special approval submission
Applications may be submitted electronically via email or delivered in hard copy to MCMC’s headquarters in Cyberjaya.
For this article’s source information and any product certification guidance, please contact Global Validity.
Quick Country Facts
Malaysia
Certification Body: Scientific and Industrial Research Institute of Malaysia (SIRIM)
Certification Type: Mandatory
License Validity: 60 Months
Application Language: English
Legal License Holder: Importer
In-Country Testing Requirement: Product Specific
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