Ensuring High-Quality Mobile Coverage by Telecommunication Companies

Mr Shawn Huang Wei Zhong asked the Minister for Communications and Information (a) whether he can provide an update on the current state of telecommunications mobile coverage and quality of service especially in new towns; (b) how does the Ministry monitor and ensure the quality of mobile services provided by telecommunication companies; and (c) what benchmarks or standards are put in place to measure and maintain high-quality mobile coverage.

Mobile network operators (MNOs) are required to provide at least 99% nationwide coverage in outdoor areas, including those inside road and MRT tunnels; and at least 85% coverage within buildings.

In fact, it is rare for such mandatory quality-of-service standards for mobile-network coverage and Singapore is one of only a few countries to require it. Based on audits conducted regularly, all MNOs have complied with the standards. In new HDB towns, MNOs and HDB work closely together to facilitate mobile-network coverage for new flats as soon as practicable, after construction is completed.