Licenses
Malaysia
The Malaysian government said it will award three third-generation (3G) licenses in the country through a beauty contest rather than an auction to help ensure carrier profitability. Because the number of licenses is fewer than the current number of mobile operators-five-it likely will spur consolidation among the players.
Hong Kong
The Office of the Telecommunications Authority (OFTA) completed the third phase of the auction for third-generation (3G) licenses and completed the frequency band selection process. The auction drew only four bidders for four licenses. Hutchison 3G Hong Kong paid the most, HK$2.4 million (US$307,000), for its spectrum. SmarTone 3G paid HK$1.4 million (US$178,000) for its spectrum. Hong Kong CSL paid HK$288,800 (US$37,000), and Sunday 3G spent HK$10,000 (US$1,280).
