05 Jan 2023

TM R&D inks MoU with AL-QUDS University to foster industry-academia collaboration for research and innovation excellence in next generation communication technologies

TM R&D inks MoU with AL-QUDS University to foster industry-academia collaboration for research and innovation excellence in next generation communication technologies Article Header
TM
R&D

​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.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

17 Oct 2023
DNB, TM and ZTE Collaborate On World's First and Fastest 28Gbps 5G mmWave on Standalone 5G Core

CYBERJAYA, 17 October 2023 – Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), TM and ZTE Corporation (ZTE) have formed a strategic alliance to unveil the world’s fastest 5G live trial which will deliver remarkable speeds up to 28Gbps. This revolutionary technology will reshape Malaysia’s digital landscape and set a new global standard in wireless communication. An expansion of DNB’s commitment to drive 5G capabilities for the country, the partnership will leverage TM’s established network infrastructure and digital expertise, as well as ZTE’s state-of-the-art mmWave active antenna unit and cutting-edge chipset technology to deliver Malaysia's first standalone 5G core, complemented by an adaptable next generation transport network. This milestone solidifies Malaysia’s position as a frontrunner in mmWave technology, elevating industry digitalisation and consumer experiences to unprecedented levels. Through this new innovation, the strategic partnership aims to propel productivity and operational efficiency, improving customer satisfaction and generating higher demand across all sectors. It will also enhance rapid Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) connections to deliver high-quality services, video streaming, lag-free online gaming, and immersive virtual and augmented reality applications. Gracing the launch of this collaboration at TM’s Multimedia University, YB Teo Nie Ching, Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital, said, “This groundbreaking partnership reaffirms Malaysia’s commitment to advancing technology, propelling us into a new era of connectivity. It underscores our determination to lead the way in technological advancements on the global stage.” Ken Tan Tzi Kieng, Chief Technology Officer of DNB, underscored the significance of this collaboration, saying, “We are thrilled to be part of this strategic collaboration with TM, MMU and ZTE on the world’s fastest 5G live trial. Connectivity is a vital component of the digital economy; and 5G, with its high throughput and low latency, paves the way for Malaysia to achieve its digital aspirations. The use of mmWave spectrum in DNB’s 5G wholesale network further augments this by giving a 5.5G experience, which is a launchpad to 6G. The combination of our spectrum with TM’s SA core opens up exciting possibilities in the enterprise space, especially in the deployment of 5G private networks.” Amar Huzaimi Md Deris, TM’s Group CEO, said, “We are pleased to work with DNB and ZTE to revolutionise Malaysia's 5G landscape, bringing digital opportunities to communities, businesses and the government. The standalone 5G core and TM’s cutting-edge network infrastructure will establish new benchmarks in connectivity speed and reliability, pushing the boundaries of digitalisation. This will enable better user experiences, pioneer new industry growth and drive the country’s innovation ecosystem that will power Malaysia as a digital nation.” Steven Ge, Managing Director of ZTE Malaysia, concluded, “ZTE is honoured to contribute our cutting-edge technology to this ground-breaking Live Trial in Malaysia. We believe this initiative will pave the way for new possibilities in the telco industry. This historic collaboration underscores ZTE's steadfast commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology and driving innovation within the telco industry. We take immense pride in working alongside esteemed partners such as TM and DNB to bring the world's fastest 5G live trial to fruition.”

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., IPS Inc., PT XLSmart Telecom Sejahtera Tbk, and NEC Corporation are collaborating to develop the Candle submarine cable system.  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.  "Our participation in this project reaffirms our commitment to play a significant role in the further development of digital infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region, which is vital to our operations in Japan, the Philippines, and Singapore. With our subsidiary, InfiniVAN, as the landing party in the Baler, Aurora Province on the eastern seaboard of the Philippines, this is one of many projects we have planned in support of developing the Philippines as a connectivity hub in Southeast Asia." said Koji Miyashita, CEO of IPS, Inc.  “XLSMART will fully support the project and we believe the Candle cable will bring benefits for all consortium parties and Indonesia”, said Feby Sallyanto, Chief of Enterprise, PT XLSmart Telecom Sejahtera Tbk.       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.  

03 Mar 2023
TM DELIVERS LANDMARK 2022 PERFORMANCE (FY2022) Revenue up 5.1% at RM12.12 billion; EBIT up 22.2% at RM2.09 billion; PATAMI up 27.7% at RM1.14 billion

FY2022 Key Highlights (vs FY2021)   ·        Operating Revenue grew 5.1% from RM11.53 billion to RM12.12 billion, with growth across all customer segments and product lines ·        EBIT grew 22.2% from RM1.71 billion to RM2.09 billion, driven by strong revenue growth and improved cost efficiency ·        PATAMI grew 27.7% from RM0.90 billion to RM1.14 billion, contributed by lower financing cost ·        CAPEX investment at 20.0% of revenue or RM2.43 billion, highest in 5 years primarily on growth in fibre service and network expansion ·        Final interim dividend at 7.5 sen per share declared amounting to RM286.6 million, with total dividend of 16.5 sen per share amounting to RM627.5 million for 2022 ·        ESG rating upgraded, FTSE Russell rated 3.6 from 3.1 in 2021; CDP rated ‘B’ from ‘C’ in 2021. Both above industry average ·        FY2022 overall performance showed strong results with good trajectory and operational excellence across all lines of business   The financial year 2022 (FY2022) performance, ended 31 December 2022, represents Telekom Malaysia Berhad’s (TM) progress of its 3-year transformation programme (2021-2023). Moving into the final year of this transformation phase, TM remains committed to its focus in delivering value to its stakeholders.   Operating revenue grew by 5.1% to RM12.12 billion, from RM11.53 billion in 2021, fuelled by demand in connectivity, solutions and infrastructure. TM continued to strengthen its core businesses across Unifi, TM One and TM Global amidst intensified competition in the market.   Through revenue growth and improved cost efficiency, TM’s Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) grew by 22.2% to RM2.09 billion, from RM1.71 billion last year.   Profit After Tax and Minority Interest (PATAMI) rose to RM1.14 billion from RM0.90 billion, up 27.7% through higher operating profit and lower financing cost.   Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) stood at 20.0% of overall revenue, amounting to RM2.43 billion invested to deliver growth in fibre services, network modernisation and upgrades.   Unifi’s continuous growth momentum   Unifi continues its leadership in converged solutions of fixed broadband, mobile services, digital content and solutions for both consumers and MSMEs, recording a revenue growth of 7.5% from RM5.22 billion to RM5.61 billion contributed by increased number of home and MSME customers. Unifi fixed broadband customers grew by 9.3% and exceeded the 3 million mark in 2022. To celebrate this milestone, customers were rewarded with free viewing of all 72 Unifi TV channels for one month, as well as pay-per-view movie discounts in appreciation for their trust and loyalty.     Unifi launched its 5G services in November 2022, offering Uni5G plans to Unifi Mobile postpaid and prepaid customers. 5G will reinforce TM’s converged leadership to provide the widest and fastest all-in-one solution for fixed broadband, mobile service and digital content.   Unifi Business’ digital solutions continue to boost and support MSME’s digitalisation needs from cloud storage, eCommerce hub, cybersecurity and digital marketing, serving critical needs from connectivity to digital solutions, accelerating their business growth.   TM One drives enterprise-grade innovative solutions   TM One reported a 0.5% growth in revenue from RM3.32 billion to RM3.34 billion in 2022, after several years of revenue decline amidst changing market dynamics and competitive landscape. This is attributed to higher recurring revenue and bespoke solutions deployment, as a trusted technology partner for large enterprises and the Government.   Utilisation of data centre space and power have also increased in 2022. The twin-core data centre of KVDC and IPDC have obtained Green Electricity Tariff (GET) from TNB as well as Green Building Index (GBI) and Leadership in Energy Environmental Design (LEED) certifications.   To strengthen its partner ecosystem, TM One launched ‘5G Sphere’ in October 2022 and today counts on over 70 leading technology and smart solution partners to accelerate the co-creation of 5G use-cases. On the other hand, Credence is advancing enterprise’s ‘cloud-first strategy’ as well as developing technologically-skilled professionals to accelerate cloud adoption in Malaysia.   TM Global positions Malaysia forward as a digital hub in the region   TM Global (rebranded from TM Wholesale) delivered a strong performance which made a significant contribution to the overall 2022 performance. TM Global’s revenue grew 7.8% from RM2.58 billion to RM2.78 billion, on the back of higher domestic data and international digital demand.   Domestically, TM Global is the preferred partner for High-Speed Broadband Access (HSBA) with the highest new installation in 4Q 2022. Advancing the country’s 5G rollout, almost 4,000 fiberisation sites were completed for the year.   Internationally, TM Global closed deals from US-based hyperscalers and Asia-Pacific carriers for its wholesale data centre solutions and international data services, elevating Malaysia as a trusted digital hub for the ASEAN region.     Commentary and Outlook from Dato’ Imri Mokhtar, TM Group Chief Executive Officer   “2022 was a milestone year for TM, tracking well in our transformation with growth across our business segments – Unifi, TM One and TM Global, and cost efficiency improvement. The stronger financial position places TM in a position to deliver better value and benefits for our stakeholders – customers, shareholders, partner ecosystem and community.   “TM is committed to continuously invest in shaping a Digital Malaysia through technology that empowers communities, businesses and Government – not just in our core business, but also in new, adjacent growth areas such as cloud, data centre, cybersecurity and platform-services.   “Sustainability will also be a domain we strive to make continuous progress. We have seen improvements in TM’s ESG ratings, for example the FTSE Russell ESG score rising from 3.1 to 3.6 in 2022 and also the CDP rating upgrade to ‘B’ from ‘C’ last year, both above the industry average. On governance, TM upholds transparency, disclosure and zero-tolerance to all forms of corruption, receiving the Gold Category in the recent Integrity, Governance and Anti-Corruption Award (AIGA) 2022.   “As part of TM’s next transformation to become a human-centred TechCo, we announced a reorganisation in December 2022 to streamline our core businesses and subsidiaries under a new entity named TM Technology Services Sdn Bhd (TM Tech). TM Tech is set to become the main operating entity of the Group with effect from 1 March 2023. This new corporate structure will be the catalyst for the next phase of TM’s transformation to reinforce its fixed-mobile convergence leadership, further improve operational efficiencies and deliver a more seamless customer experience.   “On the back of our current business momentum, there are new opportunities in the adjacent growth areas but also industry headwinds in terms of regulatory policy and higher technology costs. We are continuously assessing the impact of industry developments and will work closely with key stakeholders towards providing technology that is accessible to all in this digital era.”

NEWSLETTER

Just drop your details and stay updated with the world of Telekom Malaysia. We promise – no spam!​