Selection for 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz frequencies opened to expand networks

The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Kemkomdigi) has officially announced the opening of the selection process for users of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz radio frequency bands for the purpose of organising mobile cellular networks in 2026. This step represents the government’s efforts to optimise spectrum frequency resources in order to promote the expansion of coverage and improvement in the quality of mobile broadband services across all regions of Indonesia. “This selection process is part of the implementation of the National Medium-Term Development Plan (RPJMN) 2025–2029 as well as the Strategic Plan of the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs 2025–2029,” stated Kemkomdigi, as quoted in Jakarta on Thursday. The objects of the radio frequency bands offered in this selection include the 700 MHz band ranging from 703–738 MHz (uplink) paired with 758–793 MHz (downlink) with a total bandwidth of 70 MHz (2x35 MHz). Then there is the 2.6 GHz band ranging from 2500–2690 MHz with a total bandwidth of 190 MHz. Furthermore, providing internet services with International Mobile Telecommunications-2020 (5G) technology standards in cities/regencies in accordance with the Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs’ Decision. Selection winners are also required to settle the initial licence fee (up-front fee) and annual licence fee (BHP Radio Frequency Spectrum), as well as submit a commitment guarantee for annual IPFR payment fees until the licence expires. Whereas for the 2.6 GHz band, winners are required to mitigate interference to radiolocation service stations (meteorology) in the 2700–2900 MHz range as well as radiolocation service stations for special telecommunications in the S-band. “Through this allocation of radio frequency spectrum, it is hoped that telecommunications providers can make a real contribution to strengthening the national digital economy,” stated Kemkomdigi.