On 10 October 2025 the Malaysian Technical Standards Forum Bhd (MTSFB) opened public consultation on three important technical specifications for communication equipment: the specification for satellite earth station terminals, the specification for free space optical communication, and the specification for amateur radio equipment. The specifications are developed and updated by MTSFB working groups under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, marking a key step in completing Malaysia's communications technical standards framework.

Satellite earth station terminals

1. Broad coverage. The specification applies to fixed and portable terminals, from large hub stations to small VSAT terminals.

2. Strict RF requirements. It sets out operating frequencies, maximum output power and antenna size limits for the C, Ku, Ka and L/S bands to ensure harmonious coexistence between satellite networks and with other radio services.

3. Alignment with international standards. The specification refers extensively to recognised European Telecommunications Standards Institute standards, including:

(1) EN 301 441 and EN 301 681, which govern mobile satellite access equipment operating in bands such as 1.5, 1.6 and 2.4 GHz and ensure it meets essential safety and efficiency requirements.

(2) The EN 301 489 series, electromagnetic compatibility standards requiring all satellite earth station terminals not to cause harmful interference and to withstand external interference so that equipment operates stably.

Free space optical communication

Free space optical (FSO) communication, which uses laser beams to carry data through the atmosphere, is seen as an important complement for 5G and eventually 6G backhaul and urban connectivity because of its high bandwidth, low latency and strong confidentiality. Until now, however, Malaysia had no unified technical standard for the technology.

The new specification is Malaysia's first national technical specification for FSO. It will set requirements for performance, safe operation, installation and alignment, and adaptability under different weather conditions. The standard will guide healthy industry development and signals that Malaysia is embracing next-generation communications and preparing for an all-optical connected society.

Amateur radio equipment

1. Several key standards referenced. The specification integrates core ETSI standards including:

- EN 300 086 for VHF land mobile equipment;

- EN 300 113 for UHF land mobile equipment;

- EN 301 166 and EN 301 783 covering data transmission and equipment requirements in the VHF and UHF bands.

2. Compatibility and reliability. By referencing these standards, the new rules aim to ensure amateur radio equipment works efficiently and reliably in the designated bands while avoiding interference with public emergency communications, aeronautical navigation and other critical radio services, protecting the interests of amateurs and meeting international spectrum management responsibilities.