FOR 78 years, TM has been the backbone of communication in Malaysia.
Starting as the Malayan Telecommunication Department, it has grown to be Malaysia's longest-serving telco and the only Fixed Mobile Convergence (FMC) provider offering a complete range of services—telephony, mobile, internet, and TV.
TM Group chief executive officer Amar Huzaimi Md Deris reflects on the company's journey and shares the company's exciting plans for the future.
TM'S DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION JOURNEY
TM has made significant advancements in bringing the latest technology to Malaysia. Moving from copper to fibre networks was a major leap, making high-speed internet accessible and reliable for millions.
This shift not only kept families connected and allowed businesses to thrive but also facilitated a new era of remote work and digital entertainment.
In 2018, TM expanded from triple play to FMC, adapting to the evolving needs of connectivity and integrated services.
In 2022, it introduced 5G, the latest in mobile technology, bringing faster internet speeds and better connectivity.
This new technology opened up possibilities for innovative applications such as smart cities, remote healthcare, and enhanced e-commerce experiences.
TM's Unifi services are a testament to this legacy, connecting over four million homes and over 400,000 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), ensuring they stay ahead in the digital age.
"We have come a long way, and our commitment to innovation keeps us moving forward," says Amar.
BUILDING A DIGITAL MALAYSIA
TM is all about making life better for Malaysians by continually improving its services.
Recently, they launched Unifi UniVerse, a package designed to meet modern needs for broadband, mobile, entertainment, and more.
"Unifi UniVerse is about giving our customers the best of everything in one package," Amar explains.
Whether it's high-speed internet, reliable mobile service, or the latest entertainment options, Unifi UniVerse brings it all together. This comprehensive approach ensures that customers have everything they need for a connected and enjoyable digital lifestyle.
Concurrently, the focus is also on the nationwide network fiberisation project, aiming to replace all existing copper cables with fibre. This means faster, more reliable internet for everyone, even in remote areas, which is crucial for the nation's progress.
On a national level, TM supports key initiatives like the National Digital Network Plan (Jendela).
"Our fibre network now reaches over 6.6 million premises, contributing directly to Jendela's goal of connecting nine million premises by 2025," Amar shares.
TM also collaborates with the government to operate over 480 National Information Dissemination Centres, offering digital access to over 1.3 million Malaysians and ensuring everyone has a chance to benefit from the digital economy.
TM's Next Generation Emergency Services 999 (NG999) initiative is also set to revolutionise emergency services in Malaysia.
NG999 is an initiative to upgrade the existing MERS999 that will enhance the sharing of resources and data between emergency responders and relevant central agencies, helping to improve emergency response time nationwide.
EMPOWERING MSMEs IN DIGITAL ECONOMY
MSMEs are the backbone of Malaysia's economy, making up 97.4 per cent of domestic businesses and employing nearly half of the workforce. However, many are still new to digital technology.
TM is committed to helping these businesses thrive in the digital age.
For example, Unifi Business solution offers MSMEs competitive access to high-speed broadband and digital tools. This is supported by incentives such as a 50 per cent matching Geran Digital PMKS Madani, making it easier for them to go digital.
"We want to make sure that small businesses have the tools they need to succeed," Amar emphasises.
Additionally, TM's collaboration with Maybank Islamic Berhad led to the launch of 'Go Niaga', a mobile business banking bundle that enhances financial management and digital payments.
This initiative leverages TM's secure 5G networks, providing MSMEs with a reliable and efficient digital payment solution.
TM's e-Pharmacy app is another example of integrating technology into everyday business. This app allows pharmacists to handle prescriptions and consultations digitally with their patients, making healthcare services more accessible and efficient.
PREPARING MALAYSIA FOR THE FUTURE
TM's continuous investments in fibre infrastructure, submarine cables, and data centres are setting the stage for a more inclusive and connected future.
These investments support the growing demand for data-driven services and power advanced solutions like sovereign cloud, ensuring a secure and superior experience for users.
One exciting project is TM's partnership with Singtel's Nxera to develop a sustainable, hyper-connected Artificial Intelligence (AI)-ready data centre in Johor.
This facility will support high-performance computing and future advancements in cloud and AI technologies.
"Our extensive network infrastructure and submarine cable systems provide a solid foundation for this project, which is a game-changer for Malaysia's digital future," Amar notes.
Meanwhile, the establishment of TM's Innovation Lab and Enterprise 5G Lab further underscores TM's commitment to Malaysia's digital readiness.
"Our labs are where the future of technology is being developed," Amar explains.
These collaborative environments allow Malaysian enterprises and government sectors to create customised innovative solutions that drive progress.
TM is instrumental in nurturing future digital talents for the nation. The Multimedia University (MMU), TM's education arm, has equipped over 20,000 graduates with digital skills.
MMU is expanding its programmes to include emerging technologies like AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.
TM also collaborates with Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) institutions, offering sponsorships and enhancing TVET digital labs.
"Education is key to our digital future. By investing in education and training, we are helping to create a skilled workforce that can drive innovation and growth," Amar emphasises.
VISION FOR THE FUTURE
"Moving forward, we are embarking on the next level of our transformation journey, aiming to become a digital powerhouse by 2030. This aspiration is built upon empowering the broader impact of digital technology on Malaysia, positioning it as the digital hub for the region," Amar explained.
The key to achieving this is driven by three main strategies: Pioneer, Win, and Revitalise, or known as PWR 2030.
"Pioneer" means leading industry growth through digitalisation and sustainability by pushing the boundaries of innovation and setting new industry standards.
"Win" focuses on excelling in critical sectors like government, business, and society, becoming the go-to provider for high-end infrastructure and services, including 5G.
"Revitalise" is about creating a vibrant ecosystem of talent and innovation, positioning Malaysia as a hub for digital advancements by supporting entrepreneurs and innovators.
In 2024, TM's focus will be on protecting its leadership in core businesses, enhancing beyond connectivity services, and capturing new business growth through business model shifts and people transformation.
Sustainability remains a core principle of TM's operations, in alignment with its new Sustainability Framework and PWR 2030 goals.
"At the same time, AI remains a continuous journey for TM as it is crucial for our growth," Amar acknowledges.
The Group has embedded Machine Learning and Deep Learning in its core network and IT ecosystem, with plans to embrace Generative AI.
"We envision a future where all Malaysians are empowered through technology, where the digital divide is bridged, and where we create a vibrant and inclusive digital ecosystem as part of our journey to become a world-class digital powerhouse," Amar concludes.
With these ambitious plans and a clear vision, TM is set to play a pivotal role in Malaysia's digital future, ensuring that every Malaysian can benefit from the opportunities that the digital age brings.