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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TM to enhance customer experience with 2600 MHz spectrum
Accepts offer from MCMC for total applicable fee of RM37 million over five (5) years Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing customer experience, capacity and value with the 2600 MHz spectrum band acquired from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) recently. TM accepted the offer from MCMC for a 20 MHz spectrum block of the 2600 MHz spectrum band through its subsidiary, Webe Digital Sdn. Bhd. (“webe”). The allocated block of 2575 MHz to 2595 MHz is effective from 1 July 2022, with total applicable fee of RM37 million over a period of five (5) years and according to the following components: Upfront fee of RM7,060,000.00 Annual fee of RM5,984,000.00 to be paid by 15 December each year TM’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Imri Mokhtar said that the spectrum provides substantial value and leverage to TM as a leading convergence provider. “The increased capacity will enable TM to provide seamless fixed and wireless access, and content to its retail and enterprise customers at home, office or on the move.” “The acceptance of this spectrum offer is also aligned with our future direction in embarking into a dynamic digital space. With our strong and extensive fibre infrastructure, the spectrum will enable future expansion of telecommunication services to customers, for an end-to-end converged experience,” Imri added. “We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia as well as MCMC for extending the spectrum allocation to TM.” The allocation of the spectrum also allows TM to support the national agenda in delivering extensive telecommunications coverage with high service quality, especially through the Jalinan Digital Negara (JENDELA) and the Malaysian Digital Economy blueprint (MyDIGITAL).
TM posts solid 3Q performance with growth across all segments, continuous growth In revenue and EBIT
3Q2022 Key Highlights (vs 3Q2021) Operating Revenue grew 12.7% to RM3.16 billion, from continuous growth across all customer segments EBIT grew 38.2% to RM604.8 million, from strong revenue growth and improved business cost efficiency PATAMI decreased 2.2% at RM 265.2 million, following higher tax charges including Cukai Makmur, and foreign exchange translation loss on borrowings CAPEX investment at 19.1% of revenue or RM603.7 million, focused primarily on fibre service growth and network expansion, includes enabling 5G network rollout On the back of a solid first nine months, TM is revising upwards its market guidance on revenue and profit growth Delivering another solid quarter in 2022, Telekom Malaysia Berhad (“TM” or “the Group”) continues to chart a steady growth trajectory with its third quarter ended 30 September 2022 as compared to the same period last year (YoY). The Group’s operating revenue increased by 12.7% to RM3.16 billion, from RM2.80 billion in 3Q2021, the highest revenue recorded in the last ten quarters. TM’s focus on strengthening its core business and operational efficiency proved solid and resilient, capturing continued growth against the backdrop of intensifying competition. Better business cost efficiency from prudent operational spending plus optimisation programmes contributed to a better Group’s Earnings Before Interest and Taxes (EBIT) reported at RM604.8 million, a 38.2% growth from RM437.5 million in 3Q last year. Profit After Tax and Non-controlling Interest (PATAMI) stood at RM265.2 million, decreased 2.2% from RM 271.3 million recorded last year, as a result of higher taxation pay out and foreign exchange translation loss on borrowings. Continuous investment for growth and improving the experience of customers has been a rallying point for TM. The Group invested CAPEX at 19.1% of revenue this quarter, amounting to RM603.7 million to meet customers’ demands through fibre expansion, network modernisation and technology upgrades. Unifi sustains growth momentum Unifi demonstrated a continuous growth trajectory and continues its leadership in fixed-mobile converged (FMC) solutions of fixed broadband, mobile services, digital content and solutions for both consumers and MSMEs, recording a revenue increase of 7.0% from RM1.31 billion to RM1.40 billion. Driven by aggressive sales, promotions and loyalty programmes for customers, Unifi grew its fixed broadband subscriber base close to 3 million. With 5G now made available, Unifi will leverage this equal playing field to strengthen its position as the preferred provider for FMC, providing the widest and fastest all-in-one solution to meet today’s digital lifestyle. Unifi has also expanded its digital content portfolio with more on-demand streaming apps, with Unifi TV on track to become the largest streaming platform in Malaysia by end of 2022, with more than 15 streaming apps onboard. Its most recent launches include MangoTV, one of China’s leading online video platforms and SIAR, a local channel featuring classic Malay movies. With approximately 400,000 MSME customers, Unifi Business’ digital solutions and programmes aim to accelerate their digital transformation and business growth. On top of connectivity, Unifi Business also unveiled new business solutions to support MSMEs digitisation through cloud adoption, eCommerce Hub, cybersecurity and digital marketing, and were created to be affordable for this segment. TM One turnaround continues TM One, the Group’s enterprise and government sector arm, recorded a 11.9% growth in revenue from RM796.9 million to RM891.9 million in 3Q2022, clocking in a solid performance in the quarter. Growth was from both enterprise and government sector segments driven by connectivity services and customer projects. TM One inked more collaborations with several organisations to enable their customers’ digitalisation and transformative plans. TM One’s 5G Sphere comprising a technology ecosystem of more than 35 partners was recently launched to deliver 5G-enabled solutions for industry leaders to accelerate growth and create a more sustainable business operation. Its Private 5G solutions leveraging on dedicated and reliable Private 5G network will also propel enterprise adoption of IoT and IR 4.0 technologies, machine learning and analytics that will spur the nation’s economic growth. TM Wholesale (TMW) supports the telco/technology growth in Malaysia & region TM Wholesale (TMW) recorded a stellar performance in 3Q2022, with revenue increasing by 26.0% from RM610.9 million to RM769.9 million, making it the biggest revenue growth contributor for the Group in the current quarter. This is mainly attributable to higher domestic data and international digital demands from hyperscalers and global carriers within the region. More than 5,400 cumulative 4G and 5G fibre backhaul sites were deployed to expand network coverage and accelerate digital implementation nationwide. TMW continues to support the industry’s demand for High-speed Broadband Access (HSBA), delivering a total of more than 670,000 ports for 5 local broadband providers. At the international front, TMW secured a North Asia digital provider and a US-based hyperscaler as its latest wholesale Data Centre customers in Iskandar Puteri Data Centre. TMW also became the preferred service provider for a US-based hyperscaler in providing a long-term International Data services, thus strengthening its position as Malaysia’s preferred network infrastructure provider and at the same time positioning our country as a digital hub within ASEAN. Commentary and Outlook from Imri Mokhtar, TM Group Chief Executive Officer “TM’s growth momentum is expected to continue for the rest of 2022 from our core business segments - Unifi, TM One and TM Wholesale. We shall continue to invest in our technology capabilities, new growth areas of FMC and digital solutions, and in building capacity and digital talents within TM; while staying focused on growing with our customers, as well as continuing our operations cost discipline.” “Competition in FMC and the digital space is intensifying. We are strengthening our mobile business with the right strategy and capabilities to take TM into an era of true convergence. Unifi introduced exciting bundled packages for consumers and MSMEs, while TM One brings together leading technology and smart solution partners to accelerate innovative use cases. TMW continues to deliver on its aspiration to position Malaysia as the digital hub for ASEAN via submarine cables and date centre offerings.” “2022 is indeed the year to build our commercial resiliency to face the anticipated headwinds in 2023 – easing of economic growth, high supply chain cost and more measured customer spending.” “As we evolve from a converged Telco into a human-centred TechCo, we continue to focus on executing our transformation programmes which has produced tangible results for our customers and stakeholders.”
Unifi TV kickstarts 2023 offerings with addition of popular beIN SPORTS 2, Moonbug Kids and one premium channels
Unifi, a leader in converged home, mobile and lifestyle services via its digital content arm, Unifi TV, today announced three new premium channels via partnerships with leading content providers – beIN Asia Pacific; Moonbug Entertainment, a subsidiary of Candle Media; and Korea’s KC Global Media. Starting February 2023, viewers will be able to enjoy these popular channels via their Unifi TV subscriptions: beIN SPORTS 2 – featuring top-tier European football, international tennis competitions and most recently, full Formula 1 coverage; Moonbug Kids – designed for families with pre-school children; and ONE – for fans of the latest Korean drama and entertainment. Two of the three new channels, Moonbug Kids and ONE will also be available for free preview throughout the whole of February for both existing and new Unifi TV subscribers. This brings Unifi TV’s channel offerings to a whopping 71 premium channels, along with 17 app partners including Disney+ Hotstar, Viu, WeTV and Lionsgate Play – the largest selection of streaming apps over a single platform. Ho Hock Doong, Head of Content, Unifi TV said, “We are excited to partner beIN Asia Pacific, Moonbug Entertainment, and KC Global Media in bringing their popular channels to Unifi TV and to provide more quality offerings to our local audiences. “At the end of 2022, Digital Market Insights projected that Malaysia’s Home Entertainment revenue was expected to reach an annual growth rate (CAGR 2022-2027) of 8.36%, with a projected market volume of US$48.57 million and 1.1 million active users by 2027. “With these prospects in mind, we are strengthening our partnerships with leading global content providers to offer an inclusive selection of digital entertainment solutions – bringing Unifi’s ‘all-in-one’ value proposition to all audiences,” he added. beIN SPORTS 2 will join the line-up of three existing beIN SPORTS channels as well as the beIN SPORTS CONNECT app already available on Unifi TV, offering the widest live sports coverage from beIN SPORTS in Malaysia. In addition to the Formula 1 broadcast rights which will be extended to Unifi TV viewers, the channel will also include the Australian Open, ATP and the upcoming Roland-Garros. Mike Kerr, Managing Director, beIN Asia Pacific, said, “As we continue to expand and strengthen our sports offering, we are excited to enter into the next phase of partnership with Unifi TV. Now with Formula 1, fans can immerse themselves in more live coverage than ever before on beIN SPORTS. We look forward to working alongside Unifi TV to grow our audiences in Malaysia.” Putting families in the forefront, Moonbug Kids on Unifi TV will feature all of Moonbug’s IPs including CoComelon, Blippi, Gecko’s Garage, Morphle, Arpo, Little Baby Bum and recent acquisitions Little Angel and Oddbods – offering wholesome and quality entertainment for preschool and early-years viewers. Unifi TV is also the first digital content platform in Malaysia to offer selected Moonbug Kids programmes on demand that are localised in Bahasa Melayu and Mandarin – bringing these edutainment programmes to more of Malaysia’s multi-lingual audiences. “We are extremely excited to launch our Moonbug Kids channel on Unifi TV via their on-air and online platforms. We have had a strong start to 2023 in maintaining our strategy of rolling out our content and channels across APAC and EMEA and are now very much looking forward to sharing our beloved characters and stories with families across Malaysia,” said Nicolas Eglau, Managing Director EMEA & APAC, Moonbug Entertainment. Leading K-entertainment channel, ONE, on the other hand, will bring the best of Korean entertainment to Malaysia. The channel will feature drama series Kokdu: Season of Deity within 24 hours of release in Korea and a line-up of romantic specials in February such as Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo and Backstreet Rookie. Fans of travel variety shows will also be treated to Dopojarak: Story of Homme the K-Wanderer, featuring personalities from K-pop, K-drama, fashion and sports. George Chien, Co-Founder, President, and CEO of KC Global Media shared, “We are excited to enhance our partnership with Unifi TV to bring the best entertainment from around the world to every household and mobile device in Malaysia! With the addition of ONE channel on Unifi TV, fans can look forward to an endless stream of freshly curated programming direct from South Korea’s biggest broadcasters and studios.” “These channels are quality additions to our platform and will strengthen our lifestyle offerings as part of Unifi’s Converged solutions for broadband, mobile and digital content. Our aim is to provide seamless customer experiences via extensive and affordable services that meet today’s digital demands, including online entertainment both at home and on-the-go,” Ho shared. “As we kick off 2023, we aim to continue expanding our digital content, providing more customisable, value-for-money selections together with Unifi’s other converged solutions to bring something for everyone,” he concluded.