PETALING JAYA: Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) has completed a RM5.2 billion syndicated Islamic term financing exercise, a transaction that ranks among the largest syndicated loan facilities ever arranged for an unlisted company in Malaysia.
DNB CEO Datuk Azman Ismail said, “The successful completion of this RM5.2 billion financing exercise marks a significant milestone for DNB and reflects strong confidence in our business fundamentals, operational track record and long-term role in Malaysia’s digital economy.
“This financing provides DNB with a sustainable platform to operate on its own, continue investing in network enhancement and capacity expansion, and leverage our expanded spectrum assets.
“As Malaysia progresses under the dual network framework, DNB remains committed to providing world-class digital infrastructure that supports our shareholders, customers, enterprises and government agencies.
“With strong financing, enhanced spectrum resources and a proven nationwide 5G platform, DNB is well positioned to support the government’s AI Nation aspirations and help power Malaysia’s next phase of digital growth.”
Maybank Investment Bank Bhd acted as mandated lead arranger, bookrunner and coordinating arranger with AmInvestment Bank Bhd, CIMB Islamic Bank Bhd, RHB Islamic Bank Bhd and United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) Bhd as joint mandated lead arrangers.
AmInvestment Bank acted as financial adviser to DNB.
This significant step marks DNB’s evolution as Malaysia transitions to the next phase of its dual 5G network framework.
The financing strengthens DNB’s long-term financial position and facilitates the planned exit of Minister of Finance Incorporated (MOFInc) as an ordinary shareholder and the transition to equal ownership among its mobile network pperator shareholders, namely CelcomDigi Bhd through Infranation Sdn Bhd, Maxis Broadband Sdn Bhd and YTL Power International Bhd, expected in the early fourth quarter of 2026.
MOF Inc will retain a special share in DNB to safeguard national interests, ensuring continued stewardship of key strategic matters while enabling the company to advance its next phase of development.
The syndicated financing exercise includes the refinancing of DNB’s Government Guarantee Revolving Credit Facility, which expired on Sept 29, and establishes a sustainable long-term funding structure to support the company’s future growth.
The completion of the financing coincides with the award of the full 100 MHz of the 3.3–3.4GHz spectrum and the conversion of DNB’s entire 240MHz spectrum holding to a spectrum assignment.
Following the issuance of the spectrum assignment by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the assignment took effect yesterday, providing greater regulatory certainty and strengthening DNB’s ability to support Malaysia’s evolving 5G connectivity needs.
The 240 MHz spectrum block will enhance network capacity, efficiency, and performance, enabling faster speeds, lower latency, and an improved customer experience. It also supports the deployment of advanced technologies, including Massive MIMO, carrier aggregation, 5G Advanced and AI-driven network capabilities, further strengthening DNB’s leadership in next-generation connectivity.
Together, the financing and the spectrum assignment strengthen DNB’s ability to enhance network quality and resilience, support future demand, and advance Malaysia’s digital economy ambitions.
