Singapore regulator issues show-cause notice to Simba over alleged spectrum abuse

Singapore's Infocomm Media Development Authority has issued a notice to Simba, the telecom arm of Tuas Limited, alleging multiple instances of spectrum misuse. The regulator claims Simba employed dynamic spectrum sharing at roughly 133 locations between 2022 and 2023 to free the 2100 MHz band for 4G and 5G, even though it was only authorized for 5G. It further alleges that the 2349-2360 MHz band was used at about 92 sites from 2023 to 2026 without approval.

IMDA asserts that senior management knowingly approved the deployments and that Simba installed 5G indoor equipment at two sites before receiving authorization. The telco is also accused of deliberately withholding documents required by a production order, prompting concerns over its governance and compliance culture. Potential penalties include suspension or cancellation of spectrum rights, reduction of the licence period, and a fine of either 10 % of annual turnover or S$1 million, whichever is higher. Simba has said it will respond by the Nov 16 deadline.