Malaysia's top communications company Maxis Communications is to spend some US$300 million (RM1.15 billion) to expand its coverage in India through its unit, Aircel, a report said today.

Maxis chief executive Jamaludin Ibrahim said the amount comprised license fees for mobile operator Aircel to expand its coverage to an additional 14 locations or circles in India from its current seven.

"In India, one license is needed for one circle and the fees are dependent on circles." Jamaludin was quoted as saying in the New Straits Times .

"The 14 licenses that we are looking for cost in the range of US$300 million," he said.

Maxis earlier this year acquired a 74 percent stake in Aircel. It currently holds licenses to operate in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Orissa, Assam, North East and Jammu and Kashmir, reports said.

Maxis, controlled by tycoon Ananda Krishnan, is Malaysia's top telecommunications company with nearly eight million subscribers.