30 May 2023
TM BAGS TOP TECH AWARD FOR ITS DIGITAL WORKFORCE SOLUTION
Telekom Research & Development Sdn Bhd (TM R&D), the innovation arm of Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) wins the “Digital-Utilities” Award for its smart workforce management solution known as FORCE at the recent Malaysia Technology Excellence Awards 2023 (MTEA), organised by the Asian Business Review.
This is the seventh award received by TM R&D from MTEA in the last five years, spotlighting its role in accelerating the use of advanced technology and mobile-first approach to spearhead industrial productivity and operational efficiencies as Malaysia transitions into a digital economy.
Through cross learnings from deployment within the TM ecosystem, TM R&D’s advanced analytics software in the FORCE platform measures and reports business performance metrics in real-time. This enables fast-paced businesses to make precise data-driven decisions to improve complex tasks scheduling of large fieldwork teams across geographies that in turn, significantly ease resource planning and operational costs.
Commenting on the achievement, Dr. Sharlene Thiagarajah, Chief Executive Officer, TM R&D said, “In promoting growth mindsets through innovation and capacity-building, TM R&D has been consistently recognised for advancing tech solutions to meet fast-evolving digital needs of today’s competitive businesses. Our work in R&D is helping companies in the region adopt automation and digital solutions in improving workforce productivity and efficiency which translates into reducing cost of doing business.”
“FORCE provides operational efficiencies and first-class customer experience by automating day-to-day tasks of large field teams. It proves to be an indispensable tool not only for its ability to automate functions of a workforce but also in enabling seamless execution of digital solutions. Today, FORCE can be effectively deployed in key sectors such as the Water and Utility Industry, IT Services, Public Services, Manufacturing, Hospitality and Plantation Management,” added Dr. Sharlene.
The workforce management solution is designed to enable the adoption of digitalisation progressively within the organisation’s own growth strategy, allowing it to rapidly reap benefits with minimal costs. Dr. Sharlene concluded, “Winning this award inspires us to create smarter digital solutions in line with TM’s transformation towards becoming a human-centred TechCo and enabling a more Digital Malaysia.”
For more information about TM R&D and its innovations, visit www.tmrnd.com.my or email your inquiry to business@tmrnd.com.my or follow them on LinkedIn (TM Research & Development) for more news and updates.
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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.”
TM One and SME Bank collaborate to deliver technology funding to SMEs under PENJANA
TM One and SME Bank sign agreement to provide technology funding to SMEs via SME Technology Transformation Fund (STTF) TM One, the business and public sector solutions arm of Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia Berhad (SME Bank), an agency under the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperative to offer technology funding for its Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) customers to accelerate their business and digital transformation. The MoU was signed by Ahmad Taufek Omar, Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, TM One while SME Bank was represented by Aria Putera Ismail, its Group President/Chief Executive Officer. The SME Technology Transformation Fund (STTF), is a fund set up between SME Bank and the Ministry of Finance to offer financing assistance of up to RM3.0 million to local SMEs. This is part of the Government's Pelan Jana Semula Ekonomi Negara (PENJANA) economic stimulus package to provide financial assistance to SMEs in adopting digitalisation and/or automation in their business operations. Commenting on the collaboration, Ahmad Taufek said, "We are excited to work hand-in-hand with SME Bank to accelerate digital adoption amongst our customers particularly in the SME segment. This is in support of the Government's efforts under PENJANA to execute key initiatives to help SMEs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our aim is to assist SMEs in addressing real business challenges and issues that they are currently facing with the digital solutions available. We have put in place dedicated teams and solutions to enable our customers to realise the full potential of their digital opportunities. Our Professional Services are a consultative approach in helping SMEs to understand how to plan their digital transformation based on their unique business requirements." Meanwhile, Aria said, "With a fund size of RM500 million, STTF is expected to directly assist SME entrepreneurs to achieve higher productivity, process efficiency, efficient cost management and greater market penetration. As at 11 November 2020, SME Bank has approved 18 applications worth RM36.55 million under the STTF fund. SME Bank's role in encouraging the SMEs to adopt digital technology was further enhanced with the introduction of ODELA, the first one-stop e-commerce platform backed by a Development Financial Institution (DFI), that enabled B2B entrepreneurs to make transactions and foster partnership across vast ecosystems. The Bank's wholesome approach in providing financing and entrepreneur development assistance further adds value and accelerate the development of digital economy thus boosting the nation's economic growth in this challenging time." STTF is to be used for financing the purchases of IT solutions and services, technology support services, computer hardware and software, equipment and/or machinery and other intangible assets to enhance productivity and efficiency. SMEs as defined by the National Entrepreneur and SME Development Council (NESDC) are eligible to apply for STTF. TM One's solutions are aimed at helping SMEs to achieve higher productivity, better cost management and improved efficiency for wider market penetration through the adoption of digitalisation and automation. As the digital enabler for enterprise and public sector customers with enterprise-grade connectivity and end-to-end cloud offerings, the Company is well positioned to enable the ecosystem for digital society, digital business and digital government. Leveraging on its complete digital solutions offerings across connectivity (Internet & Data), voice and collaboration tools, business outsourcing services, cloud services, cybersecurity and Internet of Things (IoT)-based smart services, TM One will fulfil the needs of businesses and the public sector in embracing digital convergence towards enabling Digital Malaysia. This is in line with TM Group's unique role as the nation's connectivity and digital infrastructure provider. It is also in support of Jalinan Digital Negara (JENDELA) Plan to drive Malaysia's Digital Economy through business digitalisation and new ways of working. For more information on TM One solutions and how to apply for STTF, visit www.smebank.com.my and www.tmone.com.my.
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