18 Jun 2024
TM AND SINGTEL’S NXERA FORM JOINT VENTURE TO DEVELOP NEXT-GENERATION DATA CENTRES
KUALA LUMPUR, SINGAPORE, 18 JUNE 2024 – TM is partnering Nxera, the regional data centre arm of Singtel’s Digital InfraCo unit, in a joint venture to develop data centres in Malaysia starting with a sustainable, hyper-connected AI-ready data centre campus in Johor. This strategic partnership aims to serve the needs of hyperscalers, next-generation AI application providers and enterprises pursuing accelerated digitalisation and cloud in the region. The joint venture is a unique proposition, bolstered by the extensive subsea cable networks of TM and Singtel’s Digital InfraCo which provide global connectivity and enhanced network performance with lower latency and improved reliability.
Amar Huzaimi Md Deris, TM’s Group Chief Executive Officer, said, "Establishing a hyper-connected AI-ready data centre marks the next phase in our long-standing partnership with Singtel, leveraging our strengths and commitment to elevate ASEAN as the preferred digital hub destination. TM brings the largest domestic network infrastructure, extensive international subsea cable systems and the largest interconnected DC in Malaysia, a solid backbone for this project. This will serve as a catalyst for high performance computing and lay a solid foundation for the future advancement of cloud and AI applications. This collaboration of two main telcos in the region is unique and has positive impact to the development of digital ecosystem that not only benefit the businesses but also nurturing future talent. Through this partnership, TM continues to demonstrate its dedication to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions, marking a pivotal step in our aspiration to becoming a Digital Powerhouse by 2030.”
Bill Chang, CEO of Nxera and Singtel's Digital InfraCo unit, said, "We are excited to enter the Malaysian market with TM as our strategic partner. This collaboration advances our vision to be the region’s leading sustainable, hyperconnected AI-ready data centre platform, supporting businesses with the digital infrastructure needed for the growing demand for cloud, digitalisation and AI. The development of this first data centre campus in Johor, which can be expanded in phases, demonstrates our ability to scale quickly in markets that are important to our customers. With our joint industry expertise and strong track record, we will build and operate one of the most efficient, sustainable and connectivity-rich data centres in Malaysia. In addition to data centres, we will be expanding the submarine cable connectivity between Singapore and Johor to enhance digital connectivity. Our joint venture will also partner institutes of higher learning in Malaysia to nurture talent for our projects and the industry. Our strategy of developing data centre sites with close proximity to our operations in Singapore allow us to capture spill-over demand from our customers and help them scale their business with confidence.”
Located in Iskandar Puteri, just 16 km from Singapore, the data centre campus will be the largest to date for both TM and Nxera. It will be built to the latest standards for reliability, security and sustainability while offering the best local and international connectivity. With its close proximity to subsea cable links between Singapore and Malaysia, the data centre will be well-placed to support the increasing demand from both countries’ digitalisation and development initiatives.
The initial phase of the data centre is planned for 64MW and can be scaled up to 200MW in response to market demand. This high-power density campus will be able to host large computing and AI capabilities such as requirements by cloud hyperscalers, GPU-as-a-Service providers and features advanced technologies such as liquid cooling to support high-power density workloads and operations efficiently. The data centre will be a LEED-certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) green building, emphasising its commitment to greater energy efficiency and sustainable practices.
As Malaysia’s integrated telco and technology leader, TM will contribute its expertise in the region’s network infrastructure deployment to deliver customised range of wholesale data, connectivity, data centre and platform solutions catering to both local and international needs. Additionally, TM also provides Cloud services via its sovereign Cloud Alpha Edge solution.
TM currently operates seven data centres across Malaysia with 2 core data centres located in Klang Valley and Johor. Its entry into the Asia Link Cable Systems (ALC) partnership facilitates the laying of a submarine cable system spanning approximately 7,200km, with an initial design capacity of 24 Terabits/sec. Coupled with the establishment of an international Cable Landing Station at TM Exchange Kuala Sedili, Johor, these serve as vital infrastructure enhancements to accelerate the growth of the data centre industry in the state.
Nxera is a rapidly growing regional platform backed by Singtel and leading global investment firm KKR, leveraging its data centre operations in Singapore to expand overseas. Customers can also tap into a host of services such as Singtel’s Paragon cloud orchestration platform and upcoming GPU-as-a-Service. They will be able to orchestrate their AI workloads in a multi-network and multi-cloud environment, serving as a catalyst for greater innovation, entrepreneurship and business excellence.
Nxera is developing three new AI-ready data centres in the region in addition to 62MW of existing capacity in Singapore. This includes a new 58MW data centre in Tuas, Singapore and data centres with partners in Indonesia and Thailand. Nxera’s total pipeline capacity is set to increase from its current operational capacity of 62MW in Singapore to more than 200MW in the region in the next three years. The data centres will be served by Digital InfraCo's comprehensive network of subsea fibre-optic cables which provide customers with the best country-to-country connectivity in the Asia Pacific region.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
Telecommunications operators committed to JENDELA to deliver seamless digital connectivity for all Malaysians
Telecommunications operators Celcom Axiata Berhad, Digi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd, Maxis Berhad, U Mobile Sdn Bhd, Telekom Malaysia Berhad and TIME dotCom Berhad (collectively 'the Industry'), are fully committed to partner with the Government and make connectivity a basic utility to fast-track Malaysia's transition into a high-income digital society. The Jalinan Digital Negara (JENDELA) action plan announced recently by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Tan Sri Muhyiddin bin Yassin, will be the platform to achieve these aspirations by accelerating the country's digital connectivity through widespread deployment of mobile, fibre and fixed wireless access, and paving the way to 5G, under the 12th Malaysia Plan (2021–2025). The National Digital Infrastructure Lab: A collaborative effort aspiring to deliver connectivity for all The Covid-19 pandemic has triggered an urgency for Malaysia to address the 'new normal' and cater for future demands of connectivity as an enabler for all facets of life: The economy and people's livelihoods, education, business opportunities and building and connecting communities amongst others. To prepare for the future and to fulfill our Digital Malaysia aspirations, it is clear the Industry must aspire to enable everyone in this journey through quality and reliable connectivity. To this end, the Industry was a strong participant alongside the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) in the National Digital Infrastructure Lab (NDIL), with the aim to collaboratively address how to deliver quality connectivity to all Malaysians. The outcome of the NDIL was a comprehensive digital infrastructure plan that accelerates improvements to coverage and quality of experience nationwide, optimises fixed, mobile and fit-for-purpose technologies; and paves the way for the eventual adoption of 5G technologies to enable the country's digital ambitions. JENDELA: Strengthening Malaysia's Digital Communications Infrastructure to Deliver Seamless Connectivity for all Malaysians The Industry will work closely with the Government to fast-track the nation's progress towards becoming a globally competitive, resilient and enriched digital society and economy through JENDELA. Phase 1 (now to 2022): An accelerated improvement plan for nationwide 4G coverage and 7.5mil fixed broadband premises; with consistent quality of experience for everyone As announced by the Prime Minister, JENDELA will be implemented in phases. Phase 1, which starts now until 2022, will optimise existing resources and infrastructure for both mobile and fixed connectivity to: Expand 4G mobile broadband coverage from 91.8% to 96.9% in populated areas; Increase mobile broadband speeds from 25Mbps to 35Mbps; and Enable as many as 7.5 million premises to access gigabit speeds with fixed broadband services. JENDELA will firstly prioritise strengthening the nation's existing fixed and mobile networks and building a strong foundation for the eventual adoption of 5G. This will also involve the gradual retirement of 3G networks at the end of 2021. To achieve the targets in Phase 1, the Industry will look at providing wider coverage and enhanced quality of experience by upgrading and building new 4G sites, and fiberising more premises. This will be driven by extending 4G mobile coverage in rural and remote areas, improving in-door coverage for urban and suburban areas, connecting more homes with fixed broadband via fibre and other fit-for-purpose technologies (e.g. Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and satellite) to ensure widespread nationwide coverage and connectivity for all. Meanwhile, fibre providers will continue to support the industry with fibre backhaul for capacity to serve higher traffic demands expected on 4G and to ensure the fibre foundation essential for future technologies such as 5G. Phase 2 (Beyond 2022): Address the Digital Divide via Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and pave the way for 5G Phase 2 of JENDELA involves utilising FWA and other fit-for-purpose technologies to address further gaps in the digital divide, as well as priming for the nation's eventual adoption of 5G technologies; which will take place once action plans under Phase 1 are achieved. The Industry will continue to educate the public on the potential of 5G and its capabilities, through use cases applied across verticals such as manufacturing, agriculture, education, healthcare, security transportation, consumer experience, environment and smart city development. These use cases will continue to be explored under the 5G Demonstration Projects (5GDP). JENDELA: A realistic, progressive digital connectivity plan to realise Digital Malaysia JENDELA is an accelerated improvement plan where all public and private stakeholders are equally invested to deliver. This is a shared aspiration for the whole country, driven by the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia (KKMM) and MCMC in partnership with the telecommunications operators, and other agencies at the federal, state, and local council levels. The industry believes that collaboration among all parties is crucial to facilitate infrastructure rollout in a coordinated manner, with minimal impact on civil works, the public, the environment, and all aspects of the ecosystem. We look forward to working together to fulfil the objectives of JENDELA and enabling widespread quality connectivity for Malaysians nationwide. The Industry will provide periodical updates to the public on the progress of JENDELA, including initiatives undertaken as part of journey towards its aspirations.
TM Further Accelerates Its Sustainable Development
TM is pleased to announce the publication of its inaugural Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) report and this significant step underline the Group’s commitment to sustainability, transparency, and responsible business practices, reinforcing its position as a leader in the industry. The TCFD report provides transparency around the financial implications of an organisation’s climate-related risks and opportunities. With this 2022 report, TM is taking a proactive approach in understanding, assessing, and managing climate-related risks and opportunities, which will enable TM to strengthen its risk management practices, drive innovation, and ensure the long-term sustainability of its business operations. TM’s 2022 TCFD report is launched 2 years ahead of Bursa Malaysia’s December 2025 target requirement for public listed companies to align their reporting with TCFD. TM is in alignment with 9 out of 11 TCFD recommendations for the financial year ended 31 December 2022. Bursa Malaysia released this criterion in 2022 as part of its enhanced sustainability reporting requirement. “Towards becoming a human-centred TechCo, we are aware of our role in facilitating Malaysia’s transition towards a low-carbon future. Through this TCFD exercise, we have sought to build upon our existing initiatives and provide a future-focused examination on how climate change will impact our business. These insights will provide an important foundation that will enable us to continually improve our responses to climate change across each aspect of our value chain,” said Razidan Ghazalli, Group Chief Financial Officer, TM who also spearheads TM’s TCFD taskforce. "Our decision to embrace TCFD reporting demonstrates our dedication to upholding the highest standards of environmental, social, and governance practices," said Datuk Imri Mokhtar, Group Chief Executive Officer, TM. "We believe that by being transparent and accountable for our climate-related risks and opportunities, we can create long-term value for our stakeholders, strengthen our resilience, and position ourselves as an industry leader in sustainable business practices,” he further added. Developed in 2022, TM’s ESG Roadmap sets forth a clear vision, commitments, and execution plans across the three pillars of environment, social, and governance. As part of its efforts to combat climate change, TM launched several impactful initiatives aimed at achieving its goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2050. In 2022 alone, significant strides were made, including: Renewable Energy-Powered Data Centres - Three of its core data centres are now powered by renewable energy. This transition to clean energy sources significantly reduces carbon emissions associated with data centre operations. Network Modernisation for Efficiency - By implementing high-efficiency network elements and retiring legacy components, TM ensures that its network infrastructure operates at maximum efficiency. This strategic approach minimises energy waste and aligns with the overall objective of reducing carbon footprint. Energy-Efficient Air-Conditioning Upgrade - In reducing energy consumption, more than 560 conventional air-conditioning units have been replaced with more energy-efficient inverter air-conditioning systems. This transition to energy-saving technology not only contributes to lower carbon emissions but also leads to substantial energy cost savings. By incorporating renewable energy, optimising network infrastructure, and investing in energy-efficient technologies, TM is proactively working towards a greener future. With the ESG Roadmap as a guiding framework, the Group is dedicated to creating long-term value for its stakeholders while minimising environmental impact. Its unwavering commitment to sustainability extends beyond climate action to encompass social responsibility and sound governance practices. TM is committed to advancing its sustainability agenda by accelerating its transformation into a human-centred TechCo, in pursuit of a sustainable future and positive change within the industry and communities it serves. For more details on TM’s sustainability commitments and approach, visit tm.com.my/sustainability.
TM One Unveils new brand strategy and enhanced website to take Malaysian businesses and public sector forward
The new tagline “Taking Transformation Forward”, coupled with the redesigned website reaffirms TM One’s commitment as a key digital transformation enabler for Malaysia’s enterprise and public sector. TM One, the enterprise and public sector business solutions arm of Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM), enters into the year 2021 with a major stride when it introduced a new brand theme – "Taking Transformation Forward". The tagline portrays the business unit's strong commitment as the key digital transformation enabler for Malaysia's enterprise and public sector. In tandem with the new tagline, TM One also unveiled a redesigned and revamped website to reflect its upgraded features and capabilities. Ahmad Taufek Omar, Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of TM One, enthused: "We are very excited with the new tagline as it further defines our role of taking the digital transformation of our customers across various verticals forward with our comprehensive suite of state-of-the-art and innovative digital solutions. To complement it, we gave our website a significant facelift with intuitive navigation and a plethora of content; tailored for different industries. It represents the immense growth opportunities that Malaysian businesses and public sectors can gain, leveraging on the digital offerings that we offer, ranging from Cloud, Smart Services, Cybersecurity, Internet of Things (IoT), mobility, data analytics, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and many more." The new website has an enhanced interface with a clean and modern design, delivering seamless personalised content including comprehensive access to all TM One's digital offerings in an immersive form. Among the key highlights of the redesigned website is the interactive Virtual Reality (VR) content. Other advanced features include the 360o web VR, which allows customers to experience a virtual visit to the Klang Valley Data Centre (KVDC), and the upcoming TM One Experience Centre. The website also includes an in-depth overview of TM One Cloud α (Cloud Alpha), as well as insights into TM One's cloud migration and smart solution experience. In addition, the cybersecurity virtual experience demonstrates an oculus quest of several cybersecurity scenarios in an Integrated Operations Centre (IOC). "Visitors will also be able to enjoy personalisation features, providing them with unique content relevant to their business and industry. This will guide them towards the most apt product offerings, and solution recommendations, creating a smoother browsing experience for anyone visiting our website. The website will be the content hub and reference source for our customers in their journey towards taking transformation forward. This perfectly fits our role as part of TM Group as the enabler of Digital Malaysia," Ahmad Taufek added. To know more about Taking Transformation Forward and to experience TM One's redesigned website, visit www.tmone.com.my or scan the below QR code:
NEWSLETTER
Just drop your details and stay updated with the world of Telekom Malaysia. We promise – no spam!