YES has introduced 5G Advanced technology, the latest generation of mobile networks that offer higher speeds, and more stable connections. To understand its advantages, it is important to know the difference between 5G NSA, 5G SA and 5G Advanced.
In short, 5G NSA (Non-Standalone) still uses 4G as a foundation. It provides faster internet speeds but voice calls still go through the 4G network. While 5G SA (Standalone) or 'True 5G' operates entirely on the new 5G network. It supports data transfer and voice calls directly over 5G, and uses spectrum bands such as 700MHz for wider coverage and more stable connections.
5G Advanced is a more advanced version of 5G SA and is the next step in 5G technology. It offers faster internet, lower latency, better indoor coverage and more stable connections. This technology also supports Advanced Network Slicing which helps manage network traffic more efficiently according to user needs.
Today, we had the opportunity to participate in a field test session with YES to see for ourselves the experience of using 5G Advanced technology. Together with several representatives from YES, we walked around the city of Kuala Lumpur to evaluate the performance of this network in various situations, especially while in a vehicle.
This test was conducted in the most congested 5G areas and during peak hours. According to YES, 5G Advanced technology with network division helps maintain consistent performance even during high traffic. In addition to speed, network division is a key feature that distinguishes this technology.
Throughout the test, we used a Samsung Galaxy S25+ device that supports 5G Advanced provided by YES. The test was conducted in several locations around Kuala Lumpur including open areas and densely populated areas to see network performance in various situations.
To obtain these readings, we used the OOKLA application to measure network speed and stability throughout the test session. Here are some findings from the test.
Network performance appeared stable despite changing locations, indicating good traffic management through technologies such as AI and Network Slicing. Although there were some drops in some areas, the connection was still at a usable level.
Group video calls ran smoothly without any lag, including while moving in vehicles.
Populated areas showed consistent network performance without noticeable interruptions even under high data traffic conditions.
Download and upload speeds were found to be almost on par with regular 5G networks, especially in open areas with clear signals.
Indoor connections were found to be stable, including in indoor locations such as shopping malls.
The test began in Starhill, Kuala Lumpur, which showed download speeds of around 213Mbps, upload speeds of 52.5Mbps, latency of 19ms and signal fluctuations (jitter) of around 8ms. Around Menara TA One, the average download speed was 106Mbps and upload speeds of 55.5Mbps with latency of 24ms and jitter of 23ms. Repeated tests at the same location showed slight differences in download speeds between 84.7Mbps - 98Mbps, but upload speeds remained stable.
This finding shows that the 5G Advanced network performance is stable and works well in a busy urban environment. Although there are slight differences in readings depending on location and surrounding conditions, the network appears to be able to support daily use in a variety of situations.
Next, around KLCC, speed readings showed an average download speed of around 178Mbps and upload speed of 57.0Mbps. Latency was recorded as low as 18ms, while signal fluctuations were at 6ms, indicating a more stable connection. Additional tests in the same area showed download speeds of around 105Mbps while uploads reached 53.2Mbps, with a latency of 36ms and signal fluctuations of around 15ms.
On the way to the next location, we conducted a video call test involving 6 to 7 participants including another team in separate vehicles. Throughout the session, the call went smoothly without any noticeable interruptions even though the vehicle was moving through tree-lined and open areas. Voice and video display remained clear without any time lag.
This trial showed that the YES 5G Advanced network works well for real-time communication including when moving from one place to another. While performance may vary depending on location and surrounding conditions, this experience provides a convincing picture of its ability to support everyday activities such as online video calling smoothly.
The test around Prince Court showed excellent 5G Advanced network performance with download speeds of around 809Mbps, upload speeds of 127Mbps, latency of 14ms, and signal fluctuations of around 2ms, indicating a stable connection. In comparison, the 5G network test we conducted in 2021 in Putrajaya recorded download speeds of around 928Mbps, upload speeds of 146Mbps, and latency of 18ms. Although the numbers in Putrajaya were slightly higher, the difference was not that big in general.
The test around Yayasan Tun Razak showed good network performance, with download speeds of around 351Mbps, upload speeds of 107Mbps, latency of 13ms, and signal fluctuations of around 2ms. However, at the last location, a cafe near Starhill near Pavilion KL, the speed readings dropped with download speeds of around 16.6Mbps, upload speeds of 23.3Mbps, latency of 79ms, and signal fluctuations of up to 41ms.
This shows that network performance can vary depending on location, physical obstacles and congestion. The test in front of Pavilion KL, which is also a busy commercial area, also gave an idea of how the YES 5G Advanced network performs in a dense environment.
YES 5G Advanced is now available to all Yes 5G Postpaid and Wireless Broadband customers. Users only need to ensure that their devices support 5G Advanced as their existing SIM cards are already compatible.
Connection to the network occurs automatically when within the coverage area, which can be identified by the YES 5G Advanced symbol. For Postpaid customers, only use compatible devices. For Broadband customers, the Infinite Gateway router will automatically connect when coverage is available.
YES announced that the implementation of this network in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor is expected to be completed by the end of this month. Next month, the focus will be given to the northern and southern regions while Sabah and Sarawak are scheduled to receive coverage in December.
YES also shared its hopes for the use of 5G Advanced in various sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare and robotics, and sees this technology as the basis for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in these industries.