22 Sep 2025
TM JOINS CANDLE SUBMARINE CABLE SYSTEM CONSORTIUM TO CONNECT MALAYSIA AND ASEAN COUNTRIES TO JAPAN
KUALA LUMPUR, September 22, 2025 – TM, Meta, SoftBank Corp.,
Candle is a 24-fiber pair, 8,000 km submarine cable system connecting Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, that is scheduled to begin operations in 2028. It will contribute to infrastructure expansion and secure redundant routes to meet the increasing demand for data communications driven by 5G and AI.
This cable system will be one of the first in the Asia-Pacific region to use a 24-fiber pair cable, enabling superior traffic capacity to support the growing demand for communications in the region.
Chairperson of the Candle Management Committee, Don Pang, said: “Candle represents a pivotal advancement in fortifying the region’s digital infrastructure. As the need for robust, high-speed connectivity grows, Candle will deliver greater network diversity and resilience along this essential corridor, leveraging state-of-the-art technology. This milestone reflects the deep collaboration among our partners and underscores our shared commitment to advancing digital inclusion and economic opportunity for over half a billion people in the Asia-Pacific region.”
The partners from participating countries also provided their comments on the importance of this new system.
Amar Huzaimi Md Deris, TM’s Group Chief Executive Officer said, “TM’s participation in the Candle submarine cable system project demonstrates our commitment to building resilient digital infrastructure that meets the growing demand for digital services and cloud-based, AI-driven innovation across Asia. It strengthens our ability to support hyperscalers, enterprises and global service providers in expanding their footprint across ASEAN, while reinforcing Malaysia’s role as ASEAN’s digital hub. This initiative bodes well with our aspiration to become a Digital Powerhouse by 2030—connecting Malaysia to the world, and the world to Malaysia.”
“At Meta, we imagine a future where everyone has access to AI, personal superintelligence, and other emerging technologies to improve their lives and connect with each other. This is part of our commitment to seamlessly bring people together no matter where they are in the world.,” said Nico Roerich, Director, APAC Network Investments, Meta.
“With the rapid advancement of generative AI and the Internet of Things (IoT), the demand for international telecommunications is expected to continue accelerating. CANDLE adopts a 24-fiber-pair architecture, making it one of the core foundations of next-generation social infrastructure that SoftBank is promoting. By integrating with other submarine cables such as JUPITER, ADC, and E2A, we will further enhance the diversity and redundancy of global communications networks originating from Japan, and strengthen Japan’s role as a digital gateway for Asia,” said Kimimasa Kudo, Vice President and Head of Global Business Division, Enterprise Unit, SoftBank Corp.
"
Tomonori Uematsu, General Manager, Submarine Network Division, NEC Corporation, added, “NEC is a leading vendor in the submarine cable system business with over 60 years of experience. NEC is particularly strong in leading subsea projects in the Asia-Pacific region, having been responsible for eight optical submarine cable systems connecting Japan and Singapore, including ‘Candle.’ In this project, NEC will participate as a system integrator, providing everything from the manufacture of submarine cables and repeaters to route design, installation, and testing. Through the establishment of a highly reliable communication environment in the Asia region, NEC will contribute to the development of the digital economy.”
This initiative is a milestone in collective partnerships and commitment to strengthening regional connectivity, ensuring secure and reliable international data transmission, and advancing the digital growth of communities and businesses across ASEAN.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
TM shines the spotlight on an unsung hero this Hari Kebangsaan through interactive 360º wayang kulit performance
Most of us are familiar with the many great gentlemen heroes who fought for the nation’s Independence, such as Tunku Abdul Rahman and Dato' Onn Jaafar. This year, however, Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) is shining the spotlight on one of the women “Tokoh Kemerdekaan”, Tan Sri Hajah Zainon Binti Sulaiman, also known as Ibu Zain, who played a pivotal role in inspiring Malaysians to unite and stand up as one. Her inspiring yet lesser-known story was captured in a Hari Kebangsaan and Hari Malaysia film titled “Ibu, Kisah Seorang Tokoh Kemerdekaan”, to celebrate the spirit of Malaysia’s independence and as an example of strength through unity. Aptly and equally inspiring too is that the film is narrated by her own daughter, Fadzilah Amin (Tok Lah), one of the most respected lecturers and educators in the country. The film is part of TM‘s Mengukir Malaysia initiative to celebrate and preserve our local culture through innovative technologies that enhances and elevates its delivery and enables Malaysians of all ages to better appreciate the richness of Malaysia’s heritage. Aimed at reconnecting people with the nation’s history and preserving the country’s rich heritage, TM brought to life the art of Wayang Kulit (shadow play), one of the earliest forms of animation in Southeast Asia, to tell the story of Ibu Zain. The project was born from one premise: ‘What if we could shine a light on a forgotten Malaysia hero through an art form that is also fading?’ Shanti Jusnita Johari, Chief Marketing Officer, TM, said, “Through our Mengukir Malaysia initiative, we aspire to leverage technologies that not only changes the way we live, work and play, but also enhances our perspectives and ideas, drawing from our local culture and history to remind us about what’s made us a great nation. “This Hari Kebangsaan and Hari Malaysia, we wanted to remember and celebrate Malaysia’s many unsung heroes, such as Ibu Zain, who made our country great. We hope that through this short film, people will be encouraged to learn more about this historical icon as we commemorate her legacy via Wayang Kulit, one of the first forms of storytelling by our ancestors which we must also preserve.” In ensuring that the film stays true to the ancient art of Wayang Kulit, TM found the perfect partner in Tintoy Chuo and his Tok Dalang from Fusion Wayang Kulit, who are renowned for their unique take on the art of Wayang Kulit. Their efforts to bring Wayang Kulit into the digital 21st century has garnered international attention, putting Malaysian Wayang Kulit on the world map. For this collaboration, TM and Tintoy Chuo weaved in virtual reality technology, bringing the Wayang Kulit experience to school children from across the nation’s 13 States. Sharing Ibu Zain’s story in a way that harmonised both heritage and digitalisation was one of the messages TM aimed to highlight about Malaysia’s unique make up and to celebrate both its history and aspirations during this Hari Kebangsaan. On top of the Hari Kebangsaan film, audiences can also visit www.tm.com.my/mengukirmalaysia to immerse themselves into the world of Wayang Kulit, Ibu Zain and TM‘s Mengukir Malaysia initiative through videos, a 360º interactive Wayang Kulit experience, behind the scene content and many more. Fans of Wayang Kulit can also visit TM‘s social media pages to use the Wayang Kulit filters and be part of the show.
TM reports strong 3Q2020 performance amidst challenging environment
Encouraging QoQ revenue growth across all product lines 3Q2020 QoQ Key Financial and Operational Highlights (All comparisons refer to the second quarter of 2020 (Quarter-on-Quarter (QoQ) comparison), except as noted): Group Revenue grew 3.8% to RM2.69 billion from RM2.59 billion recorded in 2Q2020. Group Reported Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) increased by 7.0% QoQ to RM456.2 million, from RM426.3 million in 2Q2020. Group Reported Profit After Tax and Non-controlling Interests (PATAMI) rose 19.9% QoQ to RM329.5 million compared to RM274.7 million. The total capital expenditure (capex) for 3Q2020 stood at 14.9% of revenue or RM400.0 million. unifi: Continues convergence leadership with growth in broadband and mobile; highest convergence penetration of TM households at 58%. TM ONE: Strengthened position as the digital enabler for enterprise and public sector customers with connectivity and end-to-end cloud offerings. TM Wholesale: Continues to connect industry players, carriers, over-the-top (OTT) providers and content players in Malaysia and globally. Addressing the digital divide: Remain committed to increasing connectivity reach via Jalinan Digital Negara (JENDELA) and accelerating the digital economy with recently announced Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) collaboration. Strong Business Performance for 3Q2020 Despite these unprecedented times, TM Group Revenue continues to increase QoQ recording a resilient 3.8% growth to RM2.69 billion from RM2.59 billion recorded in 2Q2020 on the back of higher revenue from voice, internet and data services. Group EBIT for 3Q2020 increased by 7.0% QoQ to RM456.2 million, from RM426.3 million in 2Q2020, on the back of lower operating cost, from the Group's continued momentum from its cost optimisation programmes. This subsequently led to a 19.9% increase in Group PATAMI from RM274.7 million in the preceding quarter to RM329.5 million. In 3Q2020, the company invested 14.9% of revenue in capex amounting to RM400.0 million - in line with guidance - as it continued to optimise its network and sweat its assets. Of the amount invested, 50% was for network access, 17% for core network, and the balance 33% for support system. Imri Mokhtar, Group Chief Executive Officer, TM, commenting on the results: "We are pleased to report another quarter of growth across all key financial metrics – revenue and profits – despite the challenging environment in Q3. Our efforts in cost optimisation continue to yield results with a healthy EBIT and a strong PATAMI. As we enter the ninth month of the Covid-19 pandemic, our priority continues to be the safety and health of our 'Warga TM' while continuously delivering connectivity and solutions excellence to our broad customer base." "We are seeing unifi gaining momentum, posting a 6.3% growth to 1.65 million subscribers, with our total broadband customer base now at 2.26 million. We achieved the highest convergence penetration (of three services or more) in TM households since 2018, of 58%, as more Malaysians embrace digital living-working in this new norm. On the wholesale front, we continue to collaborate with industry players in Malaysia and globally. At TM ONE, we further cemented our leadership position as the digital enabler for enterprise and public sector customers with enterprise-grade connectivity and end-to-end cloud offerings. We look forward to more collaborations with strategic partners and customers towards establishing a solid foundation for a more Digital Malaysia," Imri concluded. Operational Review: Maintaining Business Momentum TM delivered another quarter of robust performance, driven by its agility to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on Group businesses and operations; leveraging on new avenues for growth in the 'new normal' whilst adapting to challenges. unifi: Continues convergence leadership with growth in broadband and mobile Achieved the highest convergence penetration at 58% of TM households. unifi customer base grew 6.3% to 1.65 million; total broadband customer base grew 2% to 2.26 million during the quarter. Helped empower Small and Media Enterprises (SMEs) with relevant tools and knowledge to grow their businesses and embrace digitalisation with the launch of cari@unifi and eBiz Pack, unifi Business Club (uBC) collaboration with Lalamove and live webinars such as Reboot and Sembang Bisnes. Partnered with Funding Society Malaysia to provide business financing solutions for Micro SMEs (MSMEs) utilising Yellow Pages' digital platform. unifi Mobile extended access to the daily free 1GB Productivity Internet offer to 24 hours, until 31 December 2020, to support Malaysian's connectivity needs in Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO). TM ONE: Strengthened our position as digital enabler for enterprise and public sector customers with connectivity and end-to-end cloud offerings Scaled up the full capabilities of Cloud α (Cloud Alpha) suite of services with full data residency, locality and sovereignty. Appointed as the technology partner of the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) to develop and maintain the Population and Housing Census of Malaysia 2020 (e-Census) platform. Continue to support state governments and local city councils to establish future-ready smart cities and smart homes via its TM ONE Smart City Solution enabled by the Internet of Things (IoT) and various smart solutions. TM Wholesale: Continues to connect industry players, carriers, over-the-top (OTT) providers and content players in Malaysia and globally Domestic Secured a new contract with a domestic mobile player for cross ocean connectivity, backhaul connectivity solutions and broadband access capacity upgrade. New backhaul connectivity deal with a domestic mobile player for new backhaul services. International Expansion of content delivery services with an Asian-based OTT player. Secured a deal with an Asian-based OTT player for connectivity solution within Asia Pacific, and two (2) new long term data connectivity deals with global carriers. Additional voice business deals with global service providers worldwide. TM Network remained stable throughout CMCO as a result of continuous network optimisation. This is despite traffic utilisation surging between 30% to 50% depending on peak hours, from March 2020 to November 2020 due to more Malaysians working from home. Supporting the nation's digital agenda and addressing the digital divide: Remain committed to increasing connectivity reach via JENDELA and accelerating the digital economy with the recently announced MDEC collaboration. Prospects for the Current Financial Year Ending 31 December 2020 Following the Covid-19 pandemic, Bank Negara Malaysia has revised Malaysia's annual gross domestic product (GDP) forecast to contract between 3.5% to 5.5%[1], against 4.3% growth in 2019. Uncertainty from the most recent wave of the pandemic from October onwards is expected to bring about further revision to these numbers. As the nation faces this adversity, relying even more on the internet and digital connectivity for work and studies, TM continues to serve as an essential service provider, ensuring stable network performance for the entire nation via both our retail and wholesale fronts. The Government's introduction of JENDELA in September 2020 as well as the RM7.4 billion allocations in the recent National Budget to deliver upgraded broadband services for year 2021 and 2022 will serve as a platform to accelerate Malaysia's digital connectivity through wider deployment of mobile, fibre and fixed wireless access. This will pave the way for 5G under the 12th Malaysia Plan (2021–2025). TM is at the forefront in collaborating with other service providers, enabling and delivering JENDELA. We continue to seek opportunities to cater for future demands of connectivity, in line with our proven commitment to maintain business profitability whilst adapting to and exploring new norms and avenues from this dynamic circumstances that the nation faces today. [1] Sourced from Bank Negara Malaysia, 14 August 2020
Jangkau Digital TM Reimagines Kampung Mukut, Pulau Tioman as Malaysia’s First Smart Eco-Village, Driving Rural Digital Inclusion and Nation-Building
KUALA LUMPUR, 14 August 2025 – Telekom Malaysia Berhad (“TM” or “the Group”) has identified Kampung Mukut, Pulau Tioman as the first village for its inaugural Jangkau Digital programme, reimagining the small coastal settlement as a Smart Eco-Village that blends digital connectivity, economic empowerment, education, and environmental stewardship. The initiative is aligned with the Government’s call for organisations to contribute in uplifting rural communities through sustainable and inclusive development. Home to just over 100 residents, Kampung Mukut is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, lush rainforests, serene waterfall, and the towering Dragon Horns of Tioman. Its remoteness has also meant limited access to connectivity and public infrastructure, challenges that Jangkau Digital seeks to address while preserving the village’s unique culture and biodiversity. The programme in Mukut was officially launched by His Royal Highness The Sultan Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, during his recent visit to the village. Amar Huzaimi Md Deris, TM’s Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer said, “Jangkau Digital TM is about building the right foundations for communities to thrive, from expanding digital access, to unlocking new economic opportunities, nurturing future-ready talent, and safeguarding environment. It reflects our role as a nation builder, ensuring that even the most remote communities are part of Malaysia’s digital future. In Mukut, we are working closely with the community and the Tioman Development Authority as our strategic partner to demonstrate that rural and island villages can progress sustainably, while preserving the heritage and natural beauty that make them unique.” Digital Foundation for Inclusive Growth The transformation begins with robust digital infrastructure across Pulau Tioman. The 75km submarine cable from Kuala Rompin that was deployed by TM, forms the backbone that connects the entire island to Malaysia’s national digital network, effectively bringing the world to Tioman and Tioman to the world. This is followed by the rollout of high-speed fibre broadband and expanded mobile coverage that now reaches all key settlements and tourism hotspots. This upgrade ensures that residents, businesses and visitors across Tioman enjoy stable, high-quality internet access, a critical enabler for economic activity, education, and tourism. In Kampung Mukut, this connectivity has been further strengthened with the installation of outdoor WiFi spanning the village from the jetty and school to the mosque, eateries, homestays, and along scenic trails, enabling tourists to navigate, locals to run online businesses, and students to participate in virtual learning without interruption. Complementing this, TM’s Vision AI CCTV systems have also been deployed at strategic points to improve public safety, manage visitor flows and support responsible tourism in line with Mukut’s eco-tourism appeal. MSME Empowerment & Economic Upliftment With strong digital connectivity as the foundation, entrepreneurs in Mukut are now better positioned to tap into the digital economy. Tourism operators, guesthouses, and boat service providers have been onboarded to visitmukut.com – a community-managed tourism portal powered by TM and enhanced with AI to deliver an end-to-end experience, from discovering Mukut’s natural beauty to booking and engaging with local operators. This is integrated with the Unifi Business Go Bookit app for seamless visitor experiences. This transition to online visibility is strengthening business resilience, particularly for operators who once depended solely on walk-in visitors. To support this shift, TM will conduct targeted training sessions to equip local MSMEs with skills in booking management, social media promotion, and digital content creation, with additional support extended to B40 entrepreneurs via the Sejahtera MADANI programme. By building these capabilities, TM aims to ensure that the economic benefits of tourism are shared more broadly across the community, while positioning Mukut as a destination that is digitally accessible. Equipping Students and Teachers for the Future The Jangkau Digital TM also brings the TM Future Skills (TMFS) to SK Mukut as the Champion School. SK Mukut is now linked to SMK Tekek, Tioman’s “nucleus” digital hub school, enabling resource-sharing and access to advanced digital tools. Through this collaboration, students are exposed to coding, robotics, 3D printing and AI learning modules – subjects that previously seemed out of reach in rural settings. Teachers in Mukut also benefit from training programmes that help them integrate STEM content into lessons and maximise the use of digital tools. Beyond the classroom, TM is investing in capability building for the community’s core sporting tradition - sailing. Efforts include upgrading essential infrastructure such as dedicated walkway and slipway to provide safe and convenient access to the waterfront. The Group also goes the extra mile by providing a comprehensive coach training and talent development programme, and providing official sports attire for the school’s sailing team. These initiatives are designed to inspire the students, enhance competitive readiness, and cultivate a new generation of talent capable of competing at the highest levels. This integrated approach ensures that Mukut’s youth can excel both in academics and in sports, proving that rural communities can nurture future champions on multiple fronts. Preserving Environment and Biodiversity In preserving Mukut’s charm, TM is embedding environmental stewardship into every aspect of development. The village’s coral reefs, rainforest trails, and marine biodiversity are recognised as irreplaceable assets, and planned coral protection and trail conservation programmes will ensure these remain intact for future generations. TM’s sustainability commitment extends to the seabed where the presence of submarine cables naturally fosters the formation of artificial reefs, providing vital habitats for marine life and cultivating to long-term biodiversity ecosystem. To further support eco-tourism safety, TM is enhancing measures to ensure the safety of both tour guides and hikers on treks to the Dragon Horns including providing GPS trackers and other digital solutions, helping Mukut maintain its reputation as a safe, well-managed destination for adventure tourism. By combining digital technology with environmental care, Jangkau Digital TM reinforces the idea that progress in rural communities can go hand in hand with sustainability. Greater Purpose of TM “Our aspiration to become Malaysia’s Digital Powerhouse by 2030 is grounded in our greater purpose to enable progress that is inclusive, sustainable, and meaningful for all. When students in Mukut can explore robotics, local entrepreneurs can reach customers worldwide, and young athletes can train for national glory, all while preserving their environment, we see the true value of digital transformation. Jangkau Digital TM in Mukut is just the beginning, and we are committed to extending this progress to other rural islands and communities across the nation,” concluded Amar.
NEWSLETTER
Just drop your details and stay updated with the world of Telekom Malaysia. We promise – no spam!