THE real test has begun for local WiMax licence holders: By month-end, all the four operators are required to launch their services. Their performance will come under scrutiny not only from critics and the masses, but also from the highest authority in the communications sector.

Energy, Water and Communications Minister Datuk Shaziman Abu Mansor last week said the four WiMax operators have until year-end to implement their services or risk having their licences revoked. This entails meeting the requirements as stated in their detailed business plans submitted to the Government last year as part of the conditions in the awarding of the licences.

According to Shaziman, the Ministry will make sure that WiMax operators comply with the standard of services promised such as availability and speed of connections, failing which they would be dealt with.

The warning is timely, as there have been numerous complaints from consumers regarding the unsatisfactory services provided by existing broadband Internet service companies. Besides, the WiMax initiative is seen as a crucial move to speed up broadband Internet implementation nationwide, including rural and other underserved areas.

For many industry observers, WiMax could be the solution to boost the country’s low broadband penetration rate and nagging digital divide issue. They reckon that given the technology’s capability to reach wider areas, the biggest potential market is among residential users and small businesses. So, this should boost Internet-driven activities such as e-commerce, which, in turn, will help boost the local economy.

For the record, action had been taken against local broadband Internet service providers for not living up to their service quality, resulting in fines and penalties totalling over RM50 million last year. The licensees were fined for, among others, not providing even 50 per cent of the reception or speed promised to consumers, failing to adhere to the business plan promised to the Government, poor quality of service which was below the set standards, breaching contracts, and not having adequate base stations and towers to fulfil service requirements.

For WiMax operators, the ball is now at their feet. They need to prove their mettle and justify their selection. Failure is not an option.