The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has announced that it will formally withdraw spectrum access for ultra-wideband (UWB) communication devices operating in the 3300-3400 MHz band. The decision is made under Section 169 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and specifically amends the class assignment granted in the Twenty-Fifth Schedule of Class Assignment No. 2 of 2025.

Regulatory change

According to the MCMC announcement of 11 February 2026, the change takes effect on 1 April 2026. From that date no UWB communication device will be permitted in the 3300-3400 MHz band. Class Assignment No. 1 of 2025 had already restricted the 3400-3700 MHz band to use until 31 May 2025, with any further use requiring specific MCMC approval. The new rules tighten access to 3300-3400 MHz as well, which means that from 1 April 2026 the band available to UWB devices in Malaysia will be 3700-10600 MHz.

The update reflects Malaysia's continued effort to optimise spectrum use, particularly in the mid bands. These bands are increasingly prioritised for advanced mobile technologies such as 5G. Under the MCMC spectrum plan the 3400-3600 MHz band has been designated for IMT applications, and moving UWB devices out of it helps reduce interference between technologies and improve spectral efficiency.

What companies should do

The decision is expected to affect manufacturers, importers and end users of UWB-enabled devices.

- Companies should ensure their products comply with the revised framework:

- UWB devices operating in the affected band may need to be reconfigured or have their supported frequency range adjusted;

- devices that cannot adapt to the new band requirements may face discontinuation or withdrawal from the Malaysian market;

- newly imported or sold UWB devices must operate only within 3700-10600 MHz.

The MCMC reminds companies and users to check device compliance promptly to avoid enforcement risk from using prohibited bands after 1 April 2026.