Acknowledgement for its support for the agency and contribution to the development of the digital ecosystem
Telekom Research & Development Sdn Bhd (TM R&D), the innovation arm of Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) recently received the ‘Data Sharing Technology Excellence’ award in recognition of its contribution as a partner to the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) in growing the data ecosystem in Malaysia.
The recognition was given away at the inaugural Malaysia Digital Economy Industry Awards 2022 organised by MDEC, to show appreciation and recognise industry players who have been supporting the agency as well as contributing to the development of the digital ecosystem.
Present to accept the award from Dato’ Seri Haji Mohammad Mentek, Secretary General of the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia, was Dr. Sharlene Thiagarajah, Chief Executive Officer of TM R&D.
Commenting on the milestone achievement, Dr. Sharlene said, “This recognition reaffirms our efforts in developing digital ecosystems to facilitate Malaysians in embracing a more digital lifestyle. It is a proud moment for us at TM R&D and we look forward to continue working closely with MDEC and other agencies with similar aim, contributing our expertise to accelerate data technology adoption and facilitating talent development as well as industry-academic collaboration.”
In 2020, TM R&D was appointed as MDEC’s Data Technology Partner under its Data Technology Partnership Programme. The appointment allows TM R&D to work hand-in-hand with MDEC and enterprises in multiple collaboration activities, leveraging on each other’s core expertise and capabilities to accelerate the adoption of data technology among businesses toward boosting Malaysia’s digital economy.
TM R&D and MDEC also joined forces to launch a one-stop data exchange platform under MDEC’s #DigitalVsCovid initiative to facilitate and accelerate data sharing. The goal was to bolster research efforts in combating COVID-19. The development of the Data Exchange Platform was among the initiatives aimed at expediting access to data for developers, students, scientists and medical practitioners as well as government agencies. This will help them gather new insights easily on the pandemic and, eventually, pave the way for major breakthroughs.
The Data Exchange Platform was built on TM R&D’s Open Innovation Platform (OIP), Malaysia’s first Open Software Development Platform. It consists of a data brokerage platform, an Application
Programming Interface (API) store-front and an end-to-end (e2e) ecosystem for the rapid development of smarter 4th Industrial Revolution (IR4.0) services that enable the creation of new
revenue opportunities.
Established in 2001, TM R&D is the innovation arm of TM Group focusing on creating smarter ecosystems to make business and life easier for a better Malaysia. TM R&D’s solutions are clustered around four pillars namely Intelligent Platforms, Data Brokerage, Connectivity/Tools and IR4.0/Digital Solutions. Growing from strength to strength, TM R&D has won multiple global awards and generated more than 2,800 Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) and 1,400 digital assets to date. TM R&D’s innovations are developed in-house and cut across multiple industries such as Utilities, Retail, Agriculture, Healthcare and Education, with safety and productivity as its top priority.
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Empowering Malaysia’s Youth: Yayasan Telekom Malaysia Expands TM Future Skills Programme
BATU PAHAT, 12 September 2023 – TM, through its corporate responsibility arm, Yayasan TM (YTM), collaborates with two more secondary schools in Peninsula Malaysia to expand its TM Future Skills (TMFS) programme. The programme aims at enhancing digital skills among students from B40 or low-income families by integrating digital technologies into their learning experiences. The newly included schools – SMK Dengkil in Selangor and SMK Tunku Putra in Johor join the programme after the successful launch of the first TMFS school, SMK Gunung Semanggol in Perak last November. These schools were selected because they have the highest percentage of B40 students in their districts and are actively engaged in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) activities. “At TM, we hold a firm belief in the pivotal role of Malaysian youth in propelling the nation’s growth and societal advancement. As an organisation that has been instrumental in the establishment of Digital Malaysia, we remain unwavering in our commitment to nurturing the next generation as drivers of our digital economy and the ongoing Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR4.0). The TMFS programme fulfils this commitment by equipping students with digital skills, while emphasising on leadership, design thinking, and cognitive abilities,” said Ainol Shaharina Sahar, Director of YTM during the TMFS launching ceremony at SMK Tunku Putra recently. “In addition, we are optimistic that the partner schools will evolve into educational hubs, effectively disseminating the knowledge and skills acquired to neighbouring schools and students. We hope that through this approach, it will ignite the students’ interest in pursuing tertiary education in technology and digital fields, thus empowering them with skills vital for Malaysia’s future workforce,” added Ainol. To enhance the immersive learning experience, YTM is establishing TMFS Digital Hubs at these partner schools. These hubs are equipped with resources such as PocketLab, robotics kits, 3D printers, smart TVs, desktop computers, and digital learning content. This hands-on setup aims to spark students’ interest in digital exploration. Highlighting the comprehensive approach of the TMFS programme, Ainol expressed, “We are delighted to witness the holistic growth within all TMFS Schools, which encompasses the development of diverse skills ranging from urban farming and vocational training to entrepreneurship. As we continue our journey to identify more potential schools nationwide, we envision unearthing more remarkable talents that will contribute to the nation’s growth while aligning Malaysia with the forefront of digital innovation.” The event was also graced by Azman Mashuri, Deputy Director of School Planning & Management Sector 2, Ministry of Education Malaysia, who expressed enthusiasm for such collaborations between the private sector and educational institutions. Azman emphasised the importance of providing exposure to digital technologies in rural schools and predicted that initiatives like TMFS will stimulate students to explore their capabilities beyond conventional academics, subsequently driving an increased interest in STEM-related fields. YTM has remained steadfast in its commitment to promoting STEM-oriented programmes since 2014, encompassing disciplines such as robotics, 3D modelling, coding, and big data analytics. In 2020, these modules coalesced into the comprehensive TMFS programme, meticulously designed to align with the Ministry of Education’s syllabus and the IR4.0. To date, YTM’s STEM-related endeavours, including the TMFS programme, have benefited over 15,000 students and educators across more than 500 schools throughout the nation. This remarkable endeavour is not just nurturing individual futures, but also cementing Malaysia’s position as a digital frontrunner on the global stage.
TM delivers double digit revenue, EBIT and PATAMI growth in Q2; on track to achieve its 2022 market guidance
2Q2022 Key Highlights (vs 2Q2021) Increased demand for Internet and Data translated to an 11.8% growth in Operating Revenue, at RM3.09 billion compared to RM2.76 billion Manpower and other OPEX cost optimisation contributed 81.3% EBIT growth, recorded at RM702.7 million PATAMI up 73.0% at RM378.0 million from RM218.5 million, as a result of higher operating profit and lower net finance cost Invested 15.7% of revenue in CAPEX or RM484.5 million in fibre expansion, network upgrades and support systems Free Cash Flow increased 36.4% at RM730.5 million, mainly attributed to increase in revenue and cost optimisation initiatives Interim Dividend of 9.0 sen per share declared with Dividend Reinvestment Scheme applicable (DRS) On track to achieve its 2022 market guidance, TM continues to strengthen core businesses while investing in new growth areas Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) has sustained its growth trajectory, delivering an excellent set of financial results across all key metrics for the second quarter ended 30 June 2022, offering converged services and solutions and demonstrating its resilience against increasing competition from other telco and technology players. The Group’s operating revenue grew by 11.8% to RM3.09 billion, compared to RM2.76 billion in the same quarter last year (YoY), on a foundation of strong performance across every customer segment and a sharp increase in revenue from all lines of service, particularly Internet and Data. Optimisation efforts enabled TM to record lower manpower and other OPEX costs, which led to higher Earnings Before Interest and Taxation (EBIT), up 81.3% at RM702.7 million compared to RM387.6 million YoY. Profit After Tax and Non-controlling Interest (PATAMI) was up 73.0% at RM378.0 million from RM218.5 million YoY, on the back of accelerated demand for connectivity, services and digital solutions. The Group applied the 33% Cukai Makmur statutory tax rate accordingly for the current quarter. In addition to Group-wide cost optimisation initiatives, the revenue jump helped drive an increase of Free Cash Flow by 36.4% to RM730.5 million YoY, putting TM in a solid position to make future investments and further reduce debt. TM also declared an Interim Dividend of 9.0 sen per share in line with its policy to distribute yearly dividends of 40% - 60% from its PATAMI. The DRS is applicable for this dividend tranche to provide flexibility to shareholders, enabling participation into the Group’s continuous growth momentum.unifi: Maintaining growth momentum As the leading convergence provider in Malaysia, unifi recorded a 10.3% revenue increase from RM1,272.0 million to RM1,402.6 million in the current quarter, driven primarily by continuous growth of fixed broadband subscribers, which recorded a 14.1% increase from the same quarter last year. unifi continues to innovate the home entertainment landscape, rapidly adapting to consumer consumption patterns through more attractive content that can be viewed both at home via high-speed broadband as well as on mobile devices via the playTV@unifi app. Its growing content ranges from Hollywood to Hallyu, offering variety for everyone. unifi's focus also extended to local SME businesses with the month-long #BelanjaDiSME campaign, as well as the SME Digitalisation Grant (SDG), which provides entrepreneurs with up to 50% savings for internet subscriptions and digital solutions.TM Wholesale (TMW): Leading the charge in positioning Malaysia as a digital hub TMW continues its march to be the nation’s preferred network infrastructure provider and to position Malaysia as a digital hub. Revenue for the current quarter increased by 26.4% from RM585.3 million YoY to RM739.9 million, contributed mainly by higher revenue from data and voice services. TMW’s compelling performance is underpinned by escalating domestic data demand and new deals secured on the international front. It recorded the highest installation for High-Speed Broadband (HSBB) Access in June 2022, driven by mobile network operators (MNOs) and content service provider under JENDELA. TMW also delivered more than 4,500 cumulative 4G and 5G backhaul sites in supporting the MyDIGITAL blueprint for enhanced digital inclusivity nationwide. On the international front, TMW has secured new deals with a US-based hyperscaler and a North Asian digital provider. Simultaneously, its collaborative agreement with Globe Telecom will enable its customers to enjoy superior gaming experiences, a strategic move to expand its business beyond its telco offerings.TM One: Stronger performance amidst market challenges The Group’s enterprise and public sector arm, TM One, recorded an increase in revenue of 4.1% YoY to RM854.6 million, with growth from recurring business across the enterprise and government sectors. Global supply chain challenges and delays, however, continued to impact its operations and subsequent delivery of several customer projects. As the sole local provider for the Government’s MyGovCloud initiative, TM through TM One, is the only hyperscale cloud provider to offer data residency, data locality and data sovereignty for the Malaysian Government and its citizens. This eliminates potential risks from international regulations, policy interventions, or risk of Malaysian data housed beyond Malaysia’s borders.Credence: Spearheading TM’s growth into the digital tech space Responding to the fast-growing market demand for the digitalisation of enterprises, Credence was recently launched to drive greater levels of digital capabilities and technology skills for the Group’s corporate customers. Established as a start-up, Credence is TM’s new cloud and digital services company, focusing on becoming a trusted technology partner to accelerate the digital transformation of large enterprises and the public sector. Leveraging TM’s existing technology partners and new ventures, Credence will also accelerate the Group’s transformation in the digital tech space.Commentary and Outlook from Imri Mokhtar, TM Group Chief Executive Officer “At the mid-point of 2022, our financial performance and results demonstrate TM’s ability to manage our businesses effectively despite the headwinds arising from a challenging and competitive business environment. These results are also a powerful testament of our transformation journey, and our commitment to deliver a sustainable and inclusive Digital Malaysia. “unifi will continue its trajectory to provide converged solutions to both residential and SME customers. unifi Business, specifically, will double down on its efforts to provide new propositions to engage SME customers including promotional campaigns and financing options. “TM One remains focused in enabling the digital transformation of the enterprise and public sectors. Complemented by its global partner ecosystem, TM One continues to make inroads on bespoke solutions engineered and supported by its in-house ICT capabilities. “TM Wholesale is on course to provide a comprehensive suite of advanced wholesale communication services and solutions for both domestic and global fronts. TMW is poised to position Malaysia as a digital hub for the ASEAN region. “As part of TM’s commitment to empower businesses on their digital transformational journey, the Group will also address the digital and tech skills gap through Credence. This new digital services subsidiary will deliver a differentiated advantage for enterprise digital solutions, providing greater and faster time-to-value with customised options for enterprises. “Looking ahead, 5G will level the playing field and move the industry away from network-based to service-based competition. TM welcomes the Government’s call for the industry to take up equity stakes in DNB. 5G will open up and expand the opportunities and growth areas for all of TM’s business segments – consumers, SMEs, enterprises, wholesale as well as digital services. We look forward to rolling out 5G-enabled products and solutions and unlocking value to meet customers’ demands. “As Malaysia’s convergence champion, we believe 5G will strengthen our convergence proposition, and our customers will be encouraged to transition to 5G in the near term. “Ultimately, TM’s growth and differentiation, whether in 5G, fixed broadband or digitalisation, will hinge on creating and offering exceptional customer experience, as we continue on our evolution towards becoming a human-centred technology company.”
TM One-UC Tati collaboration to enhance Terengganu’s tech research and development; enables education equity for students in the state
The Master Services Agreement (MSA) between TM & UC TATI will enable the digital transformation initiatives of this state government university college TM One, the enterprise and public sector business solutions arm of Telekom Malaysia (TM), has signed a Master Services Agreement (MSA) with University College Terengganu Advanced Technical Institute (UC TATI) to provide high speed managed data and Internet services at its Teluk Kalong Kemaman Campus and Kuala Terengganu City Campus respectively, for the benefit and use by the students, lecturers and staff. The partnership, which includes a complete end-to-end package of both Wide Area Network and Local Area Network effectively enables wireless connectivity throughout the campuses, and is part of the Terengganu-based institution's efforts to enhance its digital research and development field, as well as delighting student experiences post pandemic. In particular, TM One’s high-speed Internet services will support the Terengganu Big Data Institute (BDIT) located at UC TATI to conduct research and activities related to public data for the university college and the Terengganu State Government. With this, TM One enables UC TATI to explore new digital technologies such as Cloud-Based Services, Public Data and Disaster Recovery Centres that will enhance student learning as well as potentially serve the local Government and surrounding communities. General Manager of State Sales for TM One, Jamalullail Mohd said, “This agreement symbolises the strong partnership between TM One and UC TATI to provide next gen connectivity services for more contextual teaching and learning experiences to students. The accelerated adoption of digitisation has impacted the lives of Malaysians everywhere, with access to fast and reliable Internet services becoming a necessity in households, workplaces and learning institutions. This collaboration ensures educational equity and equal access to students from all parts of the country and we are pleased to support UC TATI in their transformation.” "This collaboration will also be a catalyst for UC TATI in its digital transformation journey and is among the first steps for us to meet the IR 4.0 revolution. In addition to enhancing our research and development efforts into Big Data and other key technologies, this Internet service will enhance the university's operational efficiency, teaching and learning, and overall student experiences – especially for those who are resident on-campus. Working with TM One enables us to improve our capabilities and the quality of our services in these fields and to bring our institution into the next phase of its growth," explained Professor Dr. Anuar Bin Ahmad, Rector of UC TATI.