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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unifi ups its convergence game with new content offerings
12 new, exciting linear channels and 7 streaming apps will be available on unifi TV starting 1 October 2021 unifi today announced that it will be offering 12 new channels and seven (7) new streaming apps through its unifi TV starting 1 October 2021, as the brand continues to strengthen its position as the leading convergence service provider in the country and commits to providimg world class, high-quality entertainment for home viewing or while on-the-move. The 12 new linear channels are Celestial Movies, CCM, K-Plus, GEM, AXN, Animax, HITS, HITS MOVIES, TechStorm, Arirang TV, SPOTV and SPOTV2. While, the 7 new streaming apps are Amazon Prime Video, Lionsgate Play, TVBAnywhere+, iQiyi, Viu, ZEE5 and Simply South. The streaming apps will be available on unifi Plus Box for customers to enjoy at home or can be downloaded into their own smart device for on the move viewing. Commenting on the launch of the new content line-up, Anand Vijayan, Chief Commercial Officer, Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) said he is optimistic that the new offerings on unifi TV will significantly drive sign-ups given the brand’s strength in convergence. With the addition of the new channels, unifi TV will have a total of 73 channels and 10 streaming apps on its platforms. This is also the first time Lionsgate Play and Simply South will be made available in Malaysia through a content aggregator platform like unifi TV, which is also the country’s first content service provider to offer linear channels and streaming apps in a single platform via unifi Plus Box. Streaming app Lionsgate Play is home to blockbuster movies, premium originals, and binge-worthy shows. There will be a selection of evergreen and iconic programmes for the whole family on channels like AXN, HITS and HITS MOVIES. Most of the new channels and streaming app offerings will hit closer to home, providing a wide range of vernacular shows and programmes for everyone. Exclusive top-rated local Malay series will be available on Viu and iQiyi, while for the fans of Chinese entertainment content, they will be spoilt for choice with Celestial Movies, CCM, iQiyi and TVBAnywhere+, to satisfy their viewing needs. For Indian content lovers, two (2) new streaming app partners, Simply South and ZEE5 have been added to the content line-up for them to enjoy. Both offer a variety of latest entertainment selections in multiple languages like Tamil, Hindi, Malayalam, Telugu and more. With these new partnerships, unifi TV is also fulfilling the increasing demand for Korean and Japanese content among Malaysians. The K-and J-entertainment fare will be offered via Animax, GEM, Arirang TV, K-Plus, iQiyi and Viu. Meanwhile, TechStorm addresses the youth and young families with the best of Asian esports and technology centric content. Starting 14 October 2021, unifi TV is also excited to bring in two (2) new channels for adrenaline junkies and sports fans, SPOTV and SPOTV2. These channels offer the best of sports with extensive coverage of Tennis Grand Slam Wimbledon, US Open, MotoGP, The Open Championship (British Open) and other action-packed sports programs. unifi TV is also bringing in thrilling “live” UFC events featuring world-class mixed martial arts action, as part of the main highlights in its home-grown channel, unifi Sports, in addition to exclusive Liga Super and TM Piala Malaysia matches. In conjunction with the launch, unifi TV will be offering complimentary viewing of the 12 new channels to all unifi TV packs subscribers until 31 December 2021. As an added benefit to Ultimate Pack subscribers, they will get to enjoy exclusive streaming access to Lionsgate Play and another one (1) app of their choice from a selection of iQiyi, Viu, Simply South or ZEE5, at no additional costs. The access to streaming apps can be redeemed at https://activate.unifi.com.my starting 24 September 2021. Anand added that the new offerings are in line with the company’s robust efforts to provide quality and relevant content to its users. “The new channels and streaming app providers were selected after rigorous screening to ensure that we have something the whole family would enjoy - from grandparents to housewives, working adults to youngsters. These new channels can be accessed via the unifi TV media box, unifi Plus Box, or anywhere via the unifi PlayTV app,” he said. These new channels will also come with on-demand viewing. More information about these exciting new contents can be found on www.unifi.com.my/tv. In another development, following the decision by The Walt Disney Company in April this year to discontinue the airing of most of its linear channels in Southeast Asia, unifi also announced that 17 channels from The Walt Disney Company on its unifi TV will be discontinued starting 1 October 2021. The channels are FOX, FOX Life, FX, SCM Legend, SCM, Star Chinese Channel, FOX Action Movies, FOX Family Movies, FOX Movies, Nat Geo People, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo Wild, Baby TV, Sky News, FOX Sports, FOX Sports 2 and FOX Sports 3. This development is expected to have minimal impact on users as unifi will be rolling out more content variety and streaming app partners in the next few months to ensure subscribers’ viewing needs are met. As a leading content aggregator in Malaysia, unifi continuously strives in meeting the dynamic shift of consumers’ content consumption in line with the digital lifestyle. Stay tuned as unifi will be rolling out more content variety and streaming app partners in the next few months to ensure subscribers’ viewing needs are met.
TM posts solid 3Q performance with growth across all segments, continuous growth In revenue and EBIT
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The Group’s operating revenue increased by 12.7% to RM3.16 billion, from RM2.80 billion in 3Q2021, the highest revenue recorded in the last ten quarters. TM’s focus on strengthening its core business and operational efficiency proved solid and resilient, capturing continued growth against the backdrop of intensifying competition. Better business cost efficiency from prudent operational spending plus optimisation programmes contributed to a better Group’s Earnings Before Interest and Taxes (EBIT) reported at RM604.8 million, a 38.2% growth from RM437.5 million in 3Q last year. Profit After Tax and Non-controlling Interest (PATAMI) stood at RM265.2 million, decreased 2.2% from RM 271.3 million recorded last year, as a result of higher taxation pay out and foreign exchange translation loss on borrowings. Continuous investment for growth and improving the experience of customers has been a rallying point for TM. The Group invested CAPEX at 19.1% of revenue this quarter, amounting to RM603.7 million to meet customers’ demands through fibre expansion, network modernisation and technology upgrades. Unifi sustains growth momentum Unifi demonstrated a continuous growth trajectory and continues its leadership in fixed-mobile converged (FMC) solutions of fixed broadband, mobile services, digital content and solutions for both consumers and MSMEs, recording a revenue increase of 7.0% from RM1.31 billion to RM1.40 billion. Driven by aggressive sales, promotions and loyalty programmes for customers, Unifi grew its fixed broadband subscriber base close to 3 million. With 5G now made available, Unifi will leverage this equal playing field to strengthen its position as the preferred provider for FMC, providing the widest and fastest all-in-one solution to meet today’s digital lifestyle. Unifi has also expanded its digital content portfolio with more on-demand streaming apps, with Unifi TV on track to become the largest streaming platform in Malaysia by end of 2022, with more than 15 streaming apps onboard. Its most recent launches include MangoTV, one of China’s leading online video platforms and SIAR, a local channel featuring classic Malay movies. With approximately 400,000 MSME customers, Unifi Business’ digital solutions and programmes aim to accelerate their digital transformation and business growth. On top of connectivity, Unifi Business also unveiled new business solutions to support MSMEs digitisation through cloud adoption, eCommerce Hub, cybersecurity and digital marketing, and were created to be affordable for this segment. TM One turnaround continues TM One, the Group’s enterprise and government sector arm, recorded a 11.9% growth in revenue from RM796.9 million to RM891.9 million in 3Q2022, clocking in a solid performance in the quarter. Growth was from both enterprise and government sector segments driven by connectivity services and customer projects. TM One inked more collaborations with several organisations to enable their customers’ digitalisation and transformative plans. TM One’s 5G Sphere comprising a technology ecosystem of more than 35 partners was recently launched to deliver 5G-enabled solutions for industry leaders to accelerate growth and create a more sustainable business operation. Its Private 5G solutions leveraging on dedicated and reliable Private 5G network will also propel enterprise adoption of IoT and IR 4.0 technologies, machine learning and analytics that will spur the nation’s economic growth. TM Wholesale (TMW) supports the telco/technology growth in Malaysia & region TM Wholesale (TMW) recorded a stellar performance in 3Q2022, with revenue increasing by 26.0% from RM610.9 million to RM769.9 million, making it the biggest revenue growth contributor for the Group in the current quarter. This is mainly attributable to higher domestic data and international digital demands from hyperscalers and global carriers within the region. More than 5,400 cumulative 4G and 5G fibre backhaul sites were deployed to expand network coverage and accelerate digital implementation nationwide. TMW continues to support the industry’s demand for High-speed Broadband Access (HSBA), delivering a total of more than 670,000 ports for 5 local broadband providers. At the international front, TMW secured a North Asia digital provider and a US-based hyperscaler as its latest wholesale Data Centre customers in Iskandar Puteri Data Centre. TMW also became the preferred service provider for a US-based hyperscaler in providing a long-term International Data services, thus strengthening its position as Malaysia’s preferred network infrastructure provider and at the same time positioning our country as a digital hub within ASEAN. Commentary and Outlook from Imri Mokhtar, TM Group Chief Executive Officer “TM’s growth momentum is expected to continue for the rest of 2022 from our core business segments - Unifi, TM One and TM Wholesale. We shall continue to invest in our technology capabilities, new growth areas of FMC and digital solutions, and in building capacity and digital talents within TM; while staying focused on growing with our customers, as well as continuing our operations cost discipline.” “Competition in FMC and the digital space is intensifying. We are strengthening our mobile business with the right strategy and capabilities to take TM into an era of true convergence. Unifi introduced exciting bundled packages for consumers and MSMEs, while TM One brings together leading technology and smart solution partners to accelerate innovative use cases. TMW continues to deliver on its aspiration to position Malaysia as the digital hub for ASEAN via submarine cables and date centre offerings.” “2022 is indeed the year to build our commercial resiliency to face the anticipated headwinds in 2023 – easing of economic growth, high supply chain cost and more measured customer spending.” “As we evolve from a converged Telco into a human-centred TechCo, we continue to focus on executing our transformation programmes which has produced tangible results for our customers and stakeholders.”
TM Announces Upcoming Change In Chairmanship
Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM), is pleased to announce the appointment of Dato’ Zainal Abidin Putih as its new chairman effective 1 August 2023. He will succeed Tan Sri Azlan Hashim, who completes his 2-year term on 31 July 2023. Dato' Zainal Abidin brings a wealth of experience and distinguished track record in the corporate sector. He is currently Chairman of Financial Reporting Foundation (FRF), Land and General Berhad, Touch 'n Go Sdn Bhd and Tokio Marine lnsurans (Malaysia) Bhd, as well as Board Member of Khazanah Nasional Berhad and several private limited companies. He has also previously served as Chairman of Pengurusan Danaharta Nasional Berhad, CIMB Bank Berhad, Malaysian Accounting Standards Board (MASB) and President of Malaysian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA). As Chairman, Dato' Zainal Abidin will be responsible for overseeing the overall governance and strategic direction of TM. He will work closely with the Board of Directors and management team to drive TM's next wave of growth and strengthen its market position. Tan Sri Azlan, who shall complete his term as Chairman on 31 July 2023, expressed his confidence in the appointment of Dato' Zainal Abidin and stated, "I am delighted to hand over the reins to Dato' Zainal Abidin. His extensive experience and deep understanding of the corporate sector make him the ideal candidate to lead TM into its next phase of growth. I have full confidence in his ability to guide the company towards greater achievements and new horizons." Dato' Zainal Abidin expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and said, "I am honored to assume the role of Chairman of TM. I am excited to build upon the strong foundation laid by Tan Sri Azlan and work together with the Board and management team to create new opportunities and achieve even greater heights. It is an exciting time to be joining TM, especially as we build on the company's recent successes." TM extends its appreciation to Tan Sri Azlan Hashim for his invaluable contributions, dedication, and leadership during his tenure as Chairman. His vision and strategic guidance have played a pivotal role in the company's recent growth and success.