KUALA LUMPUR, 25 August 2023 – Telekom Malaysia Berhad (“TM” or “the Group”) recorded a stronger financial performance in the second quarter of the year that ended 30 June 2023, compared to the same period in the previous year.
Its operating revenue grew 0.3% to RM3.10 billion, propelled by Unifi’s expansion which saw a substantial increase to 3.11 million fixed broadband subscribers. The growth was also due to TM Global’s solid 10.0% revenue growth driven by higher demand for domestic and international data services.
Profit After Tax and Non-Controlling Interest (PATAMI) rose 50.4% from RM378.0 million to RM568.7 million due to lower net finance cost and the recognition of tax credits from unutilised tax losses.
TM’s Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) allocation for the first half of 2023 stood at RM942.8 million, which accounts for 15.6% of the overall revenue for the expansion of network infrastructure to enhance nationwide coverage.
Meanwhile, Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT) was lower by 10.3% at RM630.0 million from RM702.7 million, due to higher preventive maintenance costs to better serve our customers and higher depreciation from revision of asset useful life.
TM declared a higher Interim Dividend of 9.5 sen per share. This is a testament of the Group’s positive financial performance and its ongoing commitment to shareholder value.
Commenting on these results, Amar Huzaimi Md Deris, TM’s Group Chief Executive Officer said, “We are pleased with this quarter’s performance, which is marked by overall positive results across our Lines of Business (“LOBs”). These achievements further strengthen TM’s growth momentum in facing a more competitive market.”
“In the coming months, TM expects to face a more challenging marketplace but remains confident in our overall positive financial performance. The Group remains steadfast to continue strengthening its core business to be commercially sustainable whilst also continuing to contribute to the nation’s growth.
“TM is excited by the huge potential of fixed, mobile and lifestyle convergence in the digital market, as well as digital infrastructure and solutions for MSME, enterprise and government sectors, whilst pursuing to capture opportunities from International partners including hyperscalers.
“We also remain committed to continuously invest in expanding our network to enable the nation’s progress towards a Digital Malaysia. TM will continue to collaborate closely with the Government to serve as the nation’s trusted partner to grow Malaysia’s overall connectivity and digital ecosystem, including 5G,” Amar concluded.
LINES OF BUSINESS PERFORMANCE
Unifi drives growth with enhanced services and market leadership
Unifi’s revenue increased 0.5% to RM1.41 billion, driven by growth in fixed broadband subscribers reaching 3.11 million from consumer and Micro Small & Medium Enterprises (“MSME”) segments.
Reinforcing its market leadership in fibre broadband services, Unifi unveiled its Ultra Gigabit Broadband Plans with 1Gbps and 2Gbps packages designed to empower digital households and expedite the growth of MSMEs.
Unifi also strengthened its position by introducing innovative Uni5G postpaid and prepaid all-in-one 4G and 5G mobile plans, enhancing its fixed-mobile convergence value proposition.
Unifi’s lifestyle services arm, Unifi TV, continued its pursuit of enriching user experiences by integrating popular streaming apps such as Netflix into its diverse portfolio. This move bolsters Unifi TV’s value proposition and adds to the variety of content available to users.
The availability of a comprehensive convergence proposition encompassing gigabit fixed broadband, innovative 5G mobile packages and lifestyle services is the only offering of its kind in the industry. This is delivered over the best fibre network, superior 4G network coverage and expanding 5G nationwide footprint that offers elevated connectivity experiences at home and on-the-go.
As a market leader, Unifi Business launched its Digital Marketing Solution (“DMS”) to encourage the MSME segment develop stronger brand presence and online visibility. As the latest addition to its line-up of connectivity and business solutions, DMS complements and augments Unifi Business’ existing offerings and will propel digital adoption among businesses.
Earning further accolades, Unifi Business received the “Best Business Fixed Broadband Service Provider” award from PC.com during the period under review.
TM One Drives Innovation with Smart Solutions and Private 5G Advancements
TM One experience a decline in revenue by 11.4% to RM732.0 million in 2Q 2023 as a result of price reductions in connectivity services and lower one-off revenue from customer projects.
To mitigate this, TM One is driving the rapid development of smart innovative solutions for verticals such as smart cities, healthcare, agriculture and industries. As a trusted digital partner for large enterprises and government, TM One is also leading Private 5G propositions and solutions across diverse industries spanning across oil & gas, transportation hubs and manufacturing to drive the country’s advancement.
As the largest local cloud provider, TM Cloud Alpha remains the preferred local sovereign hyper-scaled cloud for data residency and locality in Malaysia.
It has also reinforced its role in shaping Malaysia’s modern urban landscapes by being the strategic partner for smart city low-carbon initiatives with local councils. Along with its growing local and global partnerships, it has been appointed to implement and support various digital transformation programmes for its customers.
In recognition of its industry excellence across a suite of end-to-end next generation business solutions, TM One received the accolade for "Best Enterprise Telco" from PC.com.
TM Global on track to make Malaysia the preferred digital hub for ASEAN
TM Global recorded a 10.0% solid revenue growth from RM739.9 million to RM813.6 million, contributed by higher demand for both domestic and international data services.
TM Global remains steadfast in solidifying its stature as Malaysia’s preferred network infrastructure provider, catalysing digital industry and 4G/5G ecosystem while simultaneously positioning the country to become a digital hub for ASEAN.
TM Global continues to deploy its 4G/5G fibre backhaul rollout and drive greater demand for High Speed Broadband Access (HSBA) ports, reinforcing its commitment to support the Government’s aspirations for digital inclusivity in the country.
Beyond borders, TM Global has reinforced its position by enriching the platform play services via strategic collaborations with partners on A2P SMS Gateway in Philippines and Content Delivery Network (CDN) Last Mile Delivery in Thailand.
Additionally, TM Global continued to cater to mega bandwidth requirements with dynamic and customised solutions for hyper-scalers as well as global service providers, cementing its significance on the international stage.
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Chairman of Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission pays a visit to TM’s 5G use cases in Langkawi
The Company also deployed the region’s first 5G Standalone (SA) network Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) was honored to receive an official working visit by Al-Ishsal Ishak, Chairman of Malaysia Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to TM's 5G use cases in Langkawi, Kedah recently. The transmission of 5G service in Pulau Langkawi is utilising the region's first 5G Standalone (SA) network, deployed by TM. Al-Ishsal and his delegates were received by Rosli Man, Chairman of TM; Ir. Ts. Azizi A. Hadi, Chief Network Officer, TM; Ahmad Taufek Omar, Executive Vice President / Chief Executive Officer, TM ONE; and Dr. Sharlene Thiagarajah, Chief Executive Officer, TM Research and Development Sdn Bhd (TM R&D). Commenting on the visit, Rosli said: "We are very honored to welcome the Chairman of MCMC to experience our 5G use cases which include UNESCO 8K Virtual Reality (VR) at Langkawi International Airport (LIA) as well as to observe TM's 5G network, smart and innovative solution operations centre at its 5G Command Centre (5GCC). 5GCC serves as an integrated command centre for all our 5G network, smart and innovative solutions in Langkawi. As the national telecommunications infrastructure provider of Malaysia's Digital Nation aspirations, we are indeed excited to be part of this 5G Demonstration Project undertaken by MCMC and showcase our 5G use cases. This signifies our support and capabilities to realise MCMC's aspiration in progressing humanity towards improving the quality of lives of the Rakyat. TM, via our innovative and comprehensive products and solutions will continue to work closely with the Government and MCMC to lay the foundation for Industrial Revolution 4.0 (IR4.0) and rolling out 5G nationwide to serve a more digital society and lifestyle, digital businesses and industry verticals, as well as digital Government." During the visit, Al-Ishsal was briefed on TM's capabilities and readiness to deploy 5G network solutions as well as how the Company can power the Government's Digital Malaysia aspirations through its innovative products and solutions. TM also aspires to work together with the local authorities, particularly in Langkawi to make it a safe tourist destination via TM's solutions. Under the 5G Demonstration Project, TM through its enterprise and public sector business solutions arm, TM ONE and its research and development arm, TM R&D are deploying 11 use cases in Langkawi as below: Smart Safety and Security Solutions – a real-time monitoring system consisting of cameras and related monitoring equipment placed in strategic areas to serve variety of purposes, including building/grounds security, crime prevention, and traffic observation and integrated with TM's emergency response team. Smart Agriculture Solutions – a solution that offers single display and real time monitoring that provides information on indoor farming environment's key parameters such as temperature, humidity, grow lights intensity and selected plant parameters that are critical for timely decision making and ensuring optimality of the growth conditions. Smart Traffic Lights Solutions – data driven solution that provides a single dashboard for monitoring and helps to improve traffic flow by reducing waiting time at traffic lights, improve traffic congestions and management of traffic. Smart Parking Solutions – parking system that provides real time parking bay monitoring using camera and Artificial Intelligence (AI) which enable users to search for vacant parking bay via mobile app. UNESCO 8K VR – 8K resolution streaming over cloud, showcasing 2 episodes focusing on (1) geopark & geosites; and (2) lifestyle in Langkawi. Tourists can have a taste of all these hidden treasures through an immersive virtual reality experience for some hard to access locations that are not for the less fit. Smart Tourism "My Smart City" application – a single, integrated mobile app for tourists' convenience as it consists of several features and services such as Trip Planner, Places of Interest, Events & Happenings, Parking, and Alert Button. Smart Retail Analytics – a platform that analyses customer's experience within a physical premise and offers insights to enhance that experience. With this solution, retailers can improve customer experience, sales and brand loyalty as the platform supports customised services, targeted advertising and visitor visibility. Smart Water Management System – an internet of water solution that offers seamless end-to-end smart water integration that improves non-revenue water management, optimises repair and replacement of ageing infra as well as improves response to weather events such as flooding and pollution through smart water level and water quality measurements respectively. Smart Vehicle Management System – a fleet management solution that provides management of commercial motor vehicles for work purposes. Smart Safety Helmet – a data-driven smart industrial helmet that helps make worksite safer by providing live, wireless monitoring and array of sensors (i.e. accident impact and geolocation) to perform various analysis of data. Geolocation People Safety – the tracking solution is designed to protect and connect with people who matters the most that allows users to locate loved ones and receive alert based on safety zone and SOS button through mobile application. With all these uses cases in place and most of it are already up and running, TM has the highest number of 5G use cases among the telcos participating in the 5G Demonstration Project. The demonstration project is for TM to test the new 5G features, explore the 5G technology system and assess the best way to deploy 5G infrastructure nationwide. The transmission of 5G service in Pulau Langkawi has been going live since early December, where TM has deployed the first 5G Standalone (SA) network in the country and the region. The Company is currently testing the implementation of a converged 5G core network which allows co-existence of Non-Stand Alone (NSA) and SA network. SA is the future of the 5G network deployment and this demonstration is crucial to fast track 5G implementation in the country. 5G speed tests conducted within TM's 5G use cases sites have successfully achieved up to 1.5Gbps. TM's aspiration is to deliver efficient and cost effective 5G infrastructure via infrastructure sharing approach, through the access regulations implemented by MCMC. This is by leveraging on its extensive fibre networks, including the submarine cables, telecommunications towers, and Cloud computing as well as ready Data Centres to support the 5G era in Malaysia. In terms of devices and use cases, its wholly-owned subsidiary, TM R&D is also developing and experimenting 5G related equipment to get ready for the upcoming 5G.
TM’S PAKEJ PERPADUAN JALUR LEBAR TETAP (HOME INTERNET) AIMS TO DRIVE DIGITAL INCLUSIVITY FOR MALAYSIANS
Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) has today announced the launch of its Pakej Perpaduan Jalur Lebar Tetap (Home Internet) for underserved communities in Malaysia, in response to the challenges faced by these key communities in the digital age. The offering is aligned with the Ministry of Communications and Digital’s efforts to address concerns of underserved Malaysians from the B40, the elderly, OKU, and army-police veterans in accessing reliable and affordable internet services. Following Minister of Communications and Digital, YB Fahmi Fadzil’s announcement today during the launching ceremony in Bakar Arang, Sungai Petani, Kedah, Pakej Perpaduan Jalur Lebar Tetap is now available for subscription nationwide. This collaboration between TM and the Government demonstrates the shared commitment to deliver digital inclusivity throughout Malaysia. Underserved communities often experience adversity in accessing the benefits of the digital world and uninterrupted connectivity. Students from low-income households, for example, face challenges in accessing online learning platforms, while job seekers may struggle to find employment opportunities or even in starting up small e-Commerce businesses to support their livelihoods. Additionally, a lack of access to digital services and information can limit options for essential services, such as healthcare and Government services. Via this offering, TM seeks to bridge the digital divide through hyperconnectivity and empower these communities with the necessary tools and resources to succeed in the digital age. “As a conscientious corporate entity, TM has a social responsibility to create a meaningful impact on the community. Unifi’s fixed broadband services will be available at a more affordable rate, ensuring that more Malaysians have access to reliable internet connectivity. This will not only enhance their online experience but also enable them to participate in the digital economy, which is crucial for the country's economic growth,” said Tengku Muneer Tengku Muzani, TM’s Chief Corporate and Regulatory Officer. “Access to good connectivity will enable greater access to education and job opportunities, as well as information and services that are increasingly being delivered online. It will also allow individuals to stay connected with their loved ones, regardless of physical distance. Furthermore, it will provide a platform for underserved communities to voice their concerns and engage in broader societal discourse.” “TM stands as the foremost provider of fixed broadband services in Malaysia, delivering superior connectivity and services, bridging the digital divide. As a Public Listed Company (PLC) and Government-Linked Company (GLC), TM is uniquely positioned to balance the interests of its stakeholders, ensuring commercial sustainability while enabling digital inclusivity and driving national development initiatives. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, TM remains dedicated to delivering the best broadband experience and driving a Digital Malaysia. We remain committed to providing innovative solutions and services that cater to the evolving needs of all Malaysians. We believe that everyone should have equal access to the benefits of the digital world, and are proud to be at the forefront of this effort,” added Muneer. Unifi’s Pakej Perpaduan Jalur Lebar Tetap offers an unlimited fixed broadband package at RM69 with savings of RM480 across 24-months, for all new and existing Unifi customers from those key target segments. Registration is open until 31 December 2023 for all eligible subscribers, but will be limited to only one (1) package per person. Earlier in March, TM also announced Pakej Perpaduan Prabayar Mudah Alih (Prepaid Mobile) and together, these services will enable ubiquitous connectivity and reinforces TM’s fixed-mobile convergence leadership, offering integrated fixed broadband, mobile services, and digital content to more Malaysians. Both of these offerings will be provided through Unifi Home and Unifi Mobile respectively. “The benefits of this initiative are manifold, and we hope to better empower underserved communities and give them access to the resources and opportunities that the internet has to offer. This initiative is a testament of our commitment to social responsibility and in creating a more connected world. It also speaks to our vision of becoming a human-centred TechCo, leveraging technologies to provide equal opportunities for every Malaysian. Through our role in digital nation building, we are committed to serving the nation’s interest more directly and to bring greater impact to our diverse communities,” concluded Muneer. For more information on Unifi’s Pakej Perpaduan Jalur Lebar Tetap, visit the Unifi portal at unifi.com.my or any TMpoint outlets nationwide. Alternatively, you may also reach us through our digital channels: · Live Chat at maya.unifi.com.my or via MyUnifi app · Facebook at facebook.com/weareunifi · Twitter at @helpmeunifi
Business going digital: unifi kicks off its business webinar series for 2021 with reboot 5.0
unifi Business Club (uBC) kick off its 2021 webinar series with REBOOT 5.0, focusing on how businesses could build and retain customer loyalty in this digital age unifi continues its efforts in empowering Malaysian SMEs through complete business solutions, helping them to become sustainably-ready and economically-resilient. With that, unifi aims to enable the digital transformation of SMEs with not just products and solutions but also support programmes. Today, unifi, via its one-stop business community for SME, unifi Business Club (uBC), organised REBOOT 5.0, which focuses on how businesses could build and retain customer loyalty during these times of adversity. Ignatius Ong, Chief Executive Officer of Touch & Go Digital, Khalil Jaffri Muhammad Muri, Head of Retail Business Division of Petronas Dagangan, and Khaidhir Elias, Value Program Lead of unifi SME, shared their point of views and insights on enhanced customer loyalty for the digital future. Speaking at the event, Khaidhir said: "As the leading telecommunications service provider for Malaysian SMEs, unifi continues to organise programmes such as business webinars which are very relevant in today's landscape towards accelerating digital economy. This REBOOT 5.0 webinar series is a not to be missed online event, specially organised for our business customers. This is part of our commitment to facilitate the digital adoption and digitalisation of our business customers towards accelerating their growth. More programmes by uBC are in the pipeline, so stay tuned!" "Through uBC, unifi supports local SMEs by equipping them with the right skills and knowledge in ensuring business owners stay ahead of the competition in this digital age. This is in line with the unique role of Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) as the enabler of Digital Malaysia and in support of the Government's nation-building initiative including MyDIGITAL," he added. uBC acts as a one-stop business community for all SME needs to grow digitally. The community provides practical solutions and support, connects SMEs to various business associations and supporting agencies to enable them to grow and realise their full potential. Serving close to 400,000 businesses of all industries and sizes, unifi also provides value-added solutions offerings by leading industry experts to uBC members through various upskilling and reskilling avenues, to help them adopt digital tools with ease. Among these learning avenues for SMEs are the free live webinar series, Sembang Business and REBOOT sessions. Sembang Bisnes is a live Q&A and sharing session with reputable SME entrepreneurs, while REBOOT is a dedicated webinar session with industry experts, aimed at helping uBC members and SMEs gain business knowledge. Both are conducted live via unifi Business Club various social media accounts. Through its strong partnerships, unifi gathers industry leaders to discuss the current economic landscape, business-related queries and share valuable advice with the audience. Past sessions featured notable representatives from MDEC, SME Bank, KryptoPOS, enginemailer, TM Info Media Sdn Bhd (TMIM) and Digital Marketing Consultancy (DMC). To tune in to the upcoming free live webinars and learn more about how to stay ahead in the market with unifi, visit unifi Business Club Facebook page at www.facebook.com/unifibusinessclub.