Telkomsel has expressed its readiness to participate in the planned 2025 spectrum auctions for 700 MHz, 2.6 GHz, and 26 GHz bands. The auctions, to be organized by Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi), are critical for expanding 5G services and improving digital infrastructure across the country.

Telkomsel CEO Nugroho has emphasized the importance of sustainability in the auction process. He suggested a staggered approach, advocating for each frequency to be auctioned separately instead of simultaneously. “Sebaiknya satu-satu [lelang spektrumnya] agar cost-nya terjaga,” Nugroho stated on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.

The 700 MHz spectrum offers 90 MHz of bandwidth for cellular use, ideal for wide coverage due to its low-band characteristics. Meanwhile, the 2.6 GHz spectrum, with 150 MHz available, balances coverage and capacity. It is currently utilized by satellite broadcasting and will be fully cleared by the end of 2024. The 26 GHz high-band spectrum provides over 1,000 MHz, catering to massive capacity demands.

According to Nugroho, prioritizing the 2.6 GHz auction aligns with global trends, as a significant number of 5G devices already operate within this frequency range. This would support Telkomsel's ongoing efforts to expand its 5G network.

Telkomsel has been actively enhancing its infrastructure, particularly in the Jabodetabek area. During the 2024/2025 holiday season, the company recorded a 17.95% increase in data traffic compared to regular days. Its 5G expansion included the deployment of hundreds of new 5G sites and improvements to over 178 existing 4G/LTE towers.

As of now, Telkomsel operates more than 269,000 4G/LTE base transceiver stations (BTS), covering 97% of Indonesia’s population. Additionally, it manages over 1,400 5G BTS across 56 cities and regions, cementing its leadership in the nation’s telecommunications landscape.

The last spectrum auction conducted by Komdigi was in 2021, involving Indosat's 2x5 MHz block, which Telkomsel secured for Rp605 billion over 10 years with an upfront payment of Rp1.8 trillion. The 2025 auctions are expected to generate similar competition among operators, with Telkomsel positioned as a key contender.

SOURCE: BISNISCOM | PHOTO: TELKOMSEL