13 Mar 2023
TM AND ZTE MALAYSIA ENTER INTO A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP TO DEVELOP NEXT-GENERATION TECH THROUGH HYBRID CLOUD 5G CORE NETWORK
Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) and ZTE (Malaysia) Corporation Sdn Bhd have entered into a new partnership to build a hybrid cloud 5G core network that is designed for future technologies and applications.
Over the next three years, this strategic partnership will foster innovation and advancement of state-of-the-art technologies for TM’s 5G Core project, which includes bare metal containers, SDN-based architecture, hardware acceleration, CUPS, and 3-layer decoupling. Advancements in these technologies will propel the development of a converged, open, reliable, trusted and efficient 5G core network.
This rollout is anticipated to transform and revolutionise the way that data will be processed and transmitted, which could significantly impact the development of future technologies and applications. Developing a high-capacity network will also address the rising need for network bandwidth and speed as Malaysia’s 5G adoption and ecosystem accelerates.
The integration of this converged network will strengthen TM’s capabilities to provide seamless connectivity and exceptional network performance, serving a diverse range of industries, including healthcare, finance, transportation, and education. Additionally, the hybrid cloud 5G core network will aid in the growth of smart cities, Internet of Things (IoT), and other next-generation technologies that necessitate rapid, low-latency connectivity.
This collaboration marks a significant achievement in the advancement of 5G technology in Malaysia, with the novel hybrid cloud 5G core network anticipated to revolutionise Malaysia’s telecommunications industry. With the deployment of these sophisticated technologies, customers will gain unparalleled user experience, while also improving the network's dependability, safety, and efficiency.
Jasmine Lee Sze Inn, TM’s Executive Vice President for Mobile said, “TM is pleased to partner ZTE in building a hybrid cloud 5G core network that is designed to meet the rising needs for future technologies. This strategic partnership will transform 5G-enabled networks to deliver innovative solutions and services through our state-of-the-art network and infrastructure, and enable seamless connectivity and exceptional network performance.
“We believe that this collaboration will further accelerate the adoption of 5G networks across Malaysia, and enable next-generation technology such as smart cities, Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence, automation and other future technologies to drive both industry and the nation’s digital agenda forward.”
ZTE Malaysia’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Steven Ge, is also excited about the prospect of this collaboration and how it will advance the development of a converged, open, reliable, trusted and efficient 5G core network.
Mr Steven Ge said: “We’re excited to strengthen our partnership with TM through the development of a hybrid cloud 5G core network. This will accelerate the launch of 5G network across Malaysia, which will bring forth new innovation into the market. As a global leading provider of information and communication technology solutions we are confident that the advancement of our hybrid cloud 5G core network will be the model for future networks. ZTE is committed in this collaboration that will put Malaysia as one of the leading countries in the region to roll-out its 5G network.”
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TM AND GOVT INTRODUCE NEXT-GEN 999 EMERGENCY SYSTEM
KUALA LUMPUR, 16 November 2025 – Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM), in collaboration with the Ministry of Communications, has made available the Next Generation Emergency Response Services 999 (NG MERS 999), representing a significant enhancement to the nation’s emergency communications infrastructure. This milestone follows the 2024 agreement between both parties, reinforcing their commitment to deliver smarter, faster and more inclusive emergency services across the country. A key highlight is the enhanced SaveME 999 mobile application, which now provides Malaysians, including people with special needs and assistance, with direct access to 999 operators through video, text, and multimedia-based distress alerts. This places Malaysia among the first in the world to operationalise nationwide inclusive digital emergency access at large scale. Members of the public may continue to call 999 as usual. The SaveME 999 app serves as an additional option, particularly for those who require accessible features. The NG MERS 999 is a fully digital, integrated platform that replaces the legacy MERS 999 system which is also developed and operated by TM. The upgraded system enhances operational efficiency, optimises resource deployment, and significantly improves response times across more than 800 locations nationwide. Amar Huzaimi Md Deris, TM’s Group Chief Executive Officer, said: “TM is proud to stand alongside the Ministry of Communications in delivering this vital national infrastructure that protects lives and strengthens our resilience. NG MERS 999 represents a leap forward in Malaysia’s digital transformation, harnessing AI and multi-channel communications to empower faster, smarter and more inclusive emergency response for all.” He added, “Inclusivity sits at the heart of NG MERS 999. The enhanced SaveME 999 and the Responder App put critical technologies directly in the hands of users and responders, enabling a faster and more optimised emergency response. This reflects TM’s commitment to building a more connected, secure and digitally resilient Malaysia on its journey to becoming a Digital Powerhouse by 2030” Malaysia is setting a new benchmark in emergency response with the adoption of Advanced Mobile Location (AML) for precise caller geolocation, a unified five-agency 999 platform, and strengthened digital accessibility for PwDs. These capabilities mirror, and in several areas exceed, implementations seen in advanced emergency systems internationally. Advanced Technology and Inclusivity Developed and operated by TM, the NG MERS 999 integrates AI-powered analytics, geolocation services, and secure sovereign cloud hosting to streamline emergency call management and enable real-time decision-making. Two key applications – SaveME 999 (for the public to send multimedia alerts with GPS data) and the Responder App (for real-time tracking and coordination among emergency agencies) – ensure faster response and improved outcomes in life-critical situations. Aligned with the NG112 framework and built to stringent ISO-certified benchmarks, NG MERS 999 reinforces Malaysia’s public safety infrastructure and readiness for the digital future. With NG MERS 999, every emergency call is now met with greater speed, accuracy, and care — reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a leader in digital public safety innovation.
TM Addresses Unifi Customers’ Data Breach
TM confirmed recently of a data breach involving historical Unifi customers’ personal information that includes name, national identification/passport number, and contact details. No financial information was impacted. The company confirms that the breach has been contained and proactive steps have been taken to protect the data across its platforms. It has sent out notifications to customers informing them of the data breach and to be wary of phishing tactics including online scams, suspicious links and unsolicited phone calls. TM has also reported this matter to the relevant authorities (National Cyber Coordination & Command Centre (NC4); Department of Privacy & Data Protection (JPDP); & the Malaysian Communications & Multimedia Commission (MCMC)). TM assures all its customers that its Unifi services remain fully operational with no impact to its users.
TM R&D inks MoU with AL-QUDS University to foster industry-academia collaboration for research and innovation excellence in next generation communication technologies
Telekom Research & Development Sdn Bhd (TM R&D), the innovation arm of Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM), recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Al-Quds University (AQU) to foster industry-academia collaboration for joint research in Next Generation Communication Technologies and to create an institution for innovation and technology transfer. Dr. Sharlene Thiagarajah, Chief Executive Officer, TM R&D, signed the MoU on behalf of TM R&D while AQU was represented by its President, Prof. Dr. Imad Abu Kishek. The agreement was sealed under the support and presence of H. E. Mr. Walid Abu Ali, Ambassador of The State of Palestine to Malaysia, Brunei, Thailand and Maldives. Under the MoU, both entities will join forces to explore research and knowledge exchange activities including staff exchange for scientific works and student visits, in addition to development of impactful digital solutions with a global outlook. Commenting on the latest collaboration, Dr. Sharlene said, “We are excited to have AQU on board as the first university that we’re collaborating with post COVID-19. This MoU is testament of our efforts to work with innovative and entrepreneurial academic institutions to deliver excellence in the field of research and innovation.” “The knowledge sharing and technology transfer between Malaysia and Palestine will definitely boost research capabilities and cross-cultural innovations,” she added. Meanwhile, Prof. Dr. Imad Abu Kishek shared, “The university’s strategy encompasses building strong cooperative relationships with the Malaysian industry and academia. We believe that this is the first step towards a sustainable partnership with TM R&D, which will provide our staff and students the opportunity to access expert knowledge, latest technologies, innovation labs, and industry in Malaysia.” “We hope that this collaboration will result in a symbiotic relationship that furthers the economy, innovation, and technology transfer among both institutions,” added Prof. Dr. Imad. AQU is an academic research university that currently offers more than 120 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, delivered through its 15 degree-granting faculties that cover main scientific disciplines such as medicine, life and natural sciences, business and management, arts and humanities, law and jurisprudence, engineering, computer science, information technology, and social sciences. In addition, AQU pursues educational distinction through a culture of innovation and strives to develop entrepreneurs who are able to partake in the development of the Palestinian economy.
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