28 Dec 2022
ACES Awards 2022 recognises TM R&D as the innovative tech company of the year
In recognition of its transformative approach to software and technology that can lead to the creation of new approaches and prospects
Telekom Research & Development Sdn Bhd (TM R&D), the innovation arm of Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM), recently won the Innovative Tech Companies of the Year Award at the Asia Corporate Excellence and Sustainability Awards (ACES) 2022, organised by MORS Group. The award was conferred to TM R&D in recognition of its transformative approach to software and technology, demonstrating that its tech innovations can lead to the creation of new approaches and prospects.
Dr Sharlene Thiagarajah, Chief Executive Officer, TM R&D accepted the award from Shanggari B., Chief Executive Officer of MORS Group and Luis Nieto, one of the juries for the ACES Awards 2022.
“This is a proud moment for the TM R&D team. Winning this award illustrates that we are on the right track. The transformative approach in our work will help propel Malaysia to be a nation of producers, instead of consumers. Our ability to produce will lead to greater sustainability of our country,” Dr Sharlene expressed her gratitude on receiving the award. “Our achievements are shaped by the discipline, focus and determination we have instilled, and I would like to thank our team for their commitment towards excellence.”
TM R&D is a world-class R&D company that helps businesses solve operational issues and co-create solutions for the global market. It focuses on intelligent platforms, IR4.0 technologies and connectivity to create smarter business ecosystems. The company strives to stay relevant with new innovative solutions that the market cannot do without and takes on projects that provide multifold benefits to organisations.
Among its strengths is the local in-house talents that can make, create and innovate as well as provide thought leadership on infrastructure for the future. Acknowledging that nurturing talent is crucial to the business, TM R&D also offers emerging skills learning and development programmes such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Data Science & Analytics and Data Engineering for its employees.
Because its products and solutions are developed in-house, TM R&D is able to customise its innovations based on customers’ needs, addressing their specific pain points and meeting their customers demand (B2B2C) – embracing the Group’s aspiration of becoming a human-centred TechCo. Every product and solution that is developed contains embedded security, analytics and AI hence expanding its functionalities and delivering maximum benefits to the users.
TM R&D’s main aspiration is to create and deliver the next Unicorn for TM and ultimately for Malaysia. To support this, it holds fast to the three (3) pillars of its business, which are exploratory research, co-creation with industry, and commercialisation thus making life and business easier with smarter ecosystems to enrich humanity and bring progress to nations.
The ACES awards is among the most prestigious accolades that recognise inspiring leaders and sustainability advocates cross-industry across Asia. The awards value services and achievements of businesses of any nature respected for their contributions to their communities and the world. For more info about ACES Awards, visit https://www.acesawards.com/.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
TM INTRODUCES DIGITAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAMME FOR OVER 2000 B40 MSMEs
KUALA LUMPUR, 29 July 2025 – TM, through Unifi Business, the preferred digital solutions provider for MSMEs nationwide, has introduced Usahawan Digital TM, a nationwide programme tailored to empower 2,200 B40 entrepreneurs from the e-Kasih database, equipping them with critical digital tools and skills to thrive in the digital economy. This is in support of the national Sejahtera MADANI initiative to alleviate poverty among Malaysia’s most vulnerable groups. The Usahawan Digital TM programme will deliver three core offerings: Skill Enhancement – entrepreneurship and digital training for both basic and intermediate levels, with a focus on digital marketing and sales skills. Digital Business Tools – technology support including UNI5G Biz mobile plans with complimentary smartphones, cloud storage and digital marketing services to help entrepreneurs market their products and build strong brands. Empowerment Programmes – community-based activities such as digital workshops, masterclasses, mentoring sessions, and entrepreneur showcases nationwide. This initiative is valued at RM10 million, averaging RM5,000 per entrepreneur, delivered in-kind through devices, digital solutions, and training resources. Amar Huzaimi Md Deris, TM’s Group CEO said: “As an enabler of Malaysia’s digital future, TM is proud to be part of this inclusive national movement to empower the rakyat. Through Usahawan Digital TM, we are providing digital tools, skills, and 5G connectivity to help micro-entrepreneurs transform their livelihoods. This effort aligns with our Digital Powerhouse 2030 aspiration to support talent and innovation development in Malaysia.” Usahawan Digital TM aims to not only elevate digital capabilities but also enables participation for underserved citizens and communities to embark on entrepreneurial journeys, ensuring their continued inclusion and growth in the digital economy.
TM Demonstrates Commitment to Long-term Value Creation and Nation-Building at its 40th AGM
KUALA LUMPUR, 27 May 2025 – Telekom Malaysia Berhad (“TM” or “the Group”) demonstrated its firm commitment to delivering long-term value creation while enabling inclusive digital progress for the nation. TM returned approximately RM1.5 billion in value, benefiting various stakeholders through dividends and contributions that supported national socioeconomic progress. At the same time, TM prioritised strategic investments in business growth, community development, social impact programmes, and employee development, further generating a multiplier impact on the broader national economy. These efforts reflect TM’s focus on delivering sustainable returns to shareholders while staying true to its core purpose of creating value for all stakeholders as a nation-builder. “At TM, we see ourselves as facilitators of national progress, driving inclusive digital transformation that empowers enterprises, enriches communities and bolsters economic resilience. We are fully aligned with this vision - staying agile, expanding our capabilities and setting new benchmarks in service excellence to ensure that Malaysia remains at the forefront of the digital economy. This is what it means to be a world-class organisation,” said Dato’ Zainal Abidin Putih, Chairman of TM. This was underscored at TM’s 40th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held today at Multi Purpose Hall, Menara TM, Kuala Lumpur, where all 14 resolutions tabled were duly passed by shareholders. The meeting was chaired by Dato’ Zainal Abidin Putih, with the Board of Directors and Amar Huzaimi Md Deris, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer, in attendance. Empowering Communities through Digital Access and Inclusion Beyond profits, TM is committed to driving digital inclusivity for all including nurturing future-ready talent, empowering communities, and expanding inclusive digital access across the country. For example, TM is expanding its digitalisation efforts and community-building in Pulau Tioman, starting with Kampung Mukut. Similar programmes are being considered for other islands already connected through TM’s submarine cable infrastructure. TM is also committed to develop schools on these islands, with a focus on nurturing youth through STEM education and digital exposure. “Our goal is to build digital ecosystems that empower local communities, helping them shift from traditional livelihoods to sustainable, future-ready opportunities,” said Amar. These efforts are further supported by the TM Future Skills (TMFS) School Programme, where TM has created three ‘nucleus’ schools designed as regional hubs for innovation via the TMFS Digital Hub. TM also plans to onboard 25 new schools in 2025. Meanwhile, Yayasan TM has launched the Yayasan TM TVET Madani initiative to enhance the skill sets and employability of TVET graduates, while its education arm, Multimedia University (MMU) collaborates with schools nationwide to provide early exposure to STEM subjects through workshops and career guidance. At the same time, TM continues to provide tailored digital solutions to more than 400,000 MSMEs nationwide, helping them grow and thrive in the digital economy. Under its talent development agenda, TM has contributed RM641 million to date to nurture close to 19,000 talents, many of whom now contribute to the broader digital economy and are part of the leadership in corporate organisations and national institutions. “This is how we demonstrate that success and achieving higher purpose can go hand in hand,” said Amar. Championing Sustainability and Responsible Growth Sustainability remains core to TM’s long-term strategy. The Group’s Sustainability Framework, introduced in 2024, is built on two key objectives: enabling sustainable growth for customers and communities, and ensuring resilience across the business and value chain. In its data centre operation, TM sources 50% of its data centre energy from renewable resources and implements water harvesting and recycling systems for water conservation. TM is also targeting global benchmarks with a planned Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.4 for its expansion projects, with the upcoming Johor facility, developed in collaboration with Singtel’s Nxera, targeting even lower PUE. Technologies such as intelligent cooling systems, solar panels and energy-efficient servers further reduce environmental impact and operational costs, ensuring TM’s growth aligns with global sustainability objectives. TM’s commitment to sustainable practices was recognised at multiple awards in 2024, including the Gold Award for its Smart Forestry AI tool under the Environment & Natural Resources Sub-Category: Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation in the MTE 2024 SDG International Innovation Awards. This recognition affirms the Group’s leadership in sustainability, aligned with Malaysia’s environmental goals and net-zero ambitions. “We believe sustainability is fundamental, not just an afterthought. Our goal is to grow responsibly, delivering technology that benefits both the economy and the environment,” said Amar. Strategic Execution for Long-term Value Creation 2024 marked the first full year of implementation of its PWR 2030 strategy, which is the Group’s roadmap to becoming a Digital Powerhouse by 2030 and positioning Malaysia as the digital hub for ASEAN. “This phase is about solidifying our foundation to protect the existing core business to better position us in capitalising emerging opportunities such as hyperconnected data centres, AI and GPU-as-a-Service which are among the new growth areas for TM,” said Amar. During the year, TM made significant progress in strengthening its core businesses across B2B, B2C and C2C amidst intensified market competition. Key milestones include strengthening the convergence proposition, advancing digital solutions such as smart services, cloud, cybersecurity, as well as enhancing digital infrastructure such as domestic fibre network, mobile backhaul to support 5G, submarine cable systems and data centres. These strategic developments reinforce TM’s commitment to advancing Malaysia’s digital future while uplifting the broader ecosystem, with Warga TM continuing to be the driving force behind the Group’s growth and success. As TM continues its journey, the Group remains focused on delivering long-term value creation while creating meaningful impact for the nation. “TM is not merely a provider of technological infrastructure, but as an essential enabler and catalyst for a vibrant digital ecosystem, connecting Malaysia to the world and the world to Malaysia. As we move forward into the next phase of our journey, every initiative we undertake moves us closer to becoming a Digital Powerhouse by 2030, one that drives national progress, fosters innovation and ensures Malaysia remains at the forefront of the global digital economy,” said Amar, concluding his presentation at the TM’s 40th AGM.
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!