Malaysia Internet Exchange (MyIX) continues to prioritise meeting the evolving needs of businesses and individuals across the country, exemplified by its recent installation of the Ookla Speedtest server.
This addition empowers users to conduct speed tests and monitor their internet connection quality, ensuring reliable and high-speed connectivity. Since its introduction in April 2023, the server has facilitated over 24,000 tests, providing valuable insights into internet performance. Functioning as a neutral platform, the Ookla server allows users to test their internet connection speed without bias.
This development comes on the heels of MyIX reporting record-breaking demand for Internet bandwidth in Malaysia.
In May 2023, the peak traffic reached an unprecedented 2.1 TeraBits per second (Tbps), marking a remarkable four-fold increase from the 588 GigaBits per second (Gbps) recorded in May 2020 during the first movement control order (MCO).
The surge in digital activity reflects the profound integration of the internet and digital economy into Malaysian lifestyles and work cultures, especially within the context of the prevailing hybrid work model.
Chiew Kok Hin, Chairman of MyIX, emphasised the significance of this achievement and highlighted the nation’s increasing reliance on digital technologies. He anticipates a continuous surge in demand for Internet bandwidth, driven by the rapid growth of video conferencing and traffic, as well as the proliferation of large-scale display technologies requiring substantial bandwidth to support escalating video consumption.
As Malaysia progresses, the government acknowledges the pivotal role of the digital economy.
Communications and Digital Minister, Fahmi Fadzil, recently projected that the digital economy will contribute 25.5% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2025, underscoring its crucial position in the nation’s economic landscape.
The soaring demand for Internet bandwidth stems from various factors, including the proliferation of online streaming services, the surge in remote work and telecommuting arrangements, and the growing reliance on cloud-based technologies. To keep up with this escalating demand, local Internet service providers (ISPs) and global players are continually upgrading their infrastructure to ensure high-speed and reliable internet access.
Chiew encouraged hosting companies, universities, and enterprises to join MyIX, emphasising the network effect it offers. With more participants, the overall internet connectivity throughout Malaysia improves, creating a positive impact on the digital landscape.
“As industries and sectors increasingly embrace digital transformation, the demand for high-speed and reliable Internet connectivity will only intensify. MyIX, as Malaysia’s leading Internet exchange, remains at the forefront of this digital revolution, continually upgrading and expanding its network infrastructure to ensure seamless and uninterrupted internet connectivity,” he said.
He further emphasised that the efficient utilisation of information and communication technologies will play a pivotal role in Malaysia’s competitiveness and growth in the 21st century.
MyIX is dedicated to providing robust internet connectivity, catering to the nation’s evolving needs, and is poised to meet the escalating demand for bandwidth as Malaysia progresses further in its digital transformation journey.
Established in 2006 under the Malaysian Communications Multimedia Commission (MCMC), MyIX welcomes Network Service Provider (NSP) license holders under CMA 1988, as well as entities primarily engaged in content hosting. Additionally, entities involved or associated with content delivery via the internet may also apply for membership upon approval from the MyIX committee.
Local members are required to have an Autonomous System (AS) number issued by the regional AS assigning authority. By fostering collaboration and expanding its network, MyIX aims to strengthen Malaysia’s internet connectivity and support the nation’s digital ambitions.