New Safeguards following Probe into Simba Telecom's Unauthorised Use of Radio Frequency Bands
Ministry of Digital Development and InformationSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns Assoc Prof Terence Ho's inquiry regarding safeguards against telecommunications operators using unauthorized radio frequency bands and whether new measures would be introduced following the investigation into Simba Telecom. Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo stated that unauthorized spectrum use is a serious matter causing interference and unfair competition, noting that Simba is currently under probe. She highlighted that the Infocomm Media Development Authority conducts regular technical checks and monitoring to prevent disruption to wireless services and takes enforcement actions when interference is detected. During the investigation, the authority ensures the operator continues to meet its licence obligations and service level commitments to subscribers to minimize impact on the public. Minister for Digital Development and Information Josephine Teo emphasized that further details will be shared once the investigation and due process are concluded.
Transcript
47 Assoc Prof Terence Ho asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information (a) what safeguards exist to prevent telecommunications operators from straying into radio frequency bands that they are not authorised to use; and (b) whether new safeguards will be introduced, or existing measures strengthened, in the light of the recent probe into Simba Telecom.
Mrs Josephine Teo: On 18 May 2026, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) informed the public that Simba could have been using radio frequency bands that had not been assigned to them to provide mobile services.
Mobile network operators (MNOs) must only use spectrum assigned to them. Any use of spectrum beyond the assigned bands without IMDA's prior approval is a serious matter because it can cause interference to other services and allow operators to gain an unfair advantage over their competitors.
IMDA conducts regular technical checks and monitoring of MNOs' compliance in spectrum use, with a primary focus on preventing interference in spectrum bands and disruption of approved wireless and mobile services. Where interference has been detected, IMDA will work with the affected parties to minimise the impact and disruption to services and take enforcement actions where appropriate.
IMDA's investigations of Simba's case are ongoing. We will need to let IMDA carry out its due process and conclude its investigations before further details can be shared. Notwithstanding the investigations, IMDA will ensure that Simba continues to meet licence obligations and service level commitments to their subscribers.