01 Jun 2022
TM R&D’s Customer-focused innovations recognised at the Malaysia Technology Excellence Awards
In-house smart solutions for Fixed Wireless Access connectivity and customer experience platform for frontliners awarded under “Connectivity-Telecommunications” and “AI-IT Services” categories respectively
Telekom Research & Development Sdn Bhd (TM R&D), the innovation arm of Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM), recently bagged two awards at the Malaysia Technology Excellence Awards 2022, organised by the Singapore Business Review.
The Malaysia Technology Excellence Awards spotlights exceptional companies who are technology disruptors that boosts Malaysia’s economy. TM’s Fast Internet for All (FIRA) solution was bestowed the award under the “Connectivity-Telecommunications” category, while TM’s Single Platform on Intelligent Customer Experience (SPICE.ai) won the award in the “Artificial Intelligence (AI)-IT Services” category.
Commenting on these awards, Dr. Sharlene Thiagarajah, Chief Executive Officer, TM R&D said, “I couldn’t be prouder of my team as these awards reflect their commitment to meet the fast-evolving digital needs of today’s customers and strengthen our position as a research leader in these fields. This recognition also reaffirms our efforts in building smarter digital ecosystems to facilitate the ease with which Malaysians can embrace a more digital lifestyle, while also bringing progress to the nation.”
FIRA was introduced as a way to support the government in providing Malaysians with quality access to digital connectivity nationwide. Aimed at offering better internet service to underserved communities, FIRA uses Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) technologies to improve connectivity in rural areas across Malaysia. Since its first deployment in Malacca back in July 2020, the solution has demonstrated promising success in improving download and upload link speeds compared to other broadband services. The solution has since been implemented at a rural school in Selangor and at Pusat Komuniti Desa sites under the Ministry of Rural Development. It has also supported an IR4.0 use case in Terengganu.
“FIRA is formulated to address two common issues: coverage and speed. The solution is capable to deliver connectivity up to 50Mbps within 5-8km range, compared to a traditional 4G cell within 1km range. Furthermore, with its quick deployment procedures, FIRA can help mitigate customers’ connectivity concerns in a cost-effective and timely manner,” shared Dr. Sharlene.
SPICE.ai, on the other hand, aims to assist frontliners in their daily task of addressing customer service enquiries and requests.
Dr Sharlene explained, “SPICE.ai consists of multiple components that cover different parts of an existing customer experience system. By integrating these components, frontliners gain a more holistic view of each customers’ profiles. The solution then implements real-time analytics to improve customer experience, giving frontliners the right information at the right time which allows them to deliver a better experience to customers.”
This analytics system has been deployed nationwide for nearly two years and becomes the primary touchpoint for more than 5,000 TM frontliners in most customer interactions across multiple channels. The performance of SPICE.ai has proven to be reliable and seamless even when integrated with more than 20 existing, standalone systems and was still able to relay the processed information through one single platform, on top of providing analytics and advisory.
Established in 2001, TM R&D is the innovation arm of TM Group focusing on creating smarter ecosystems to make business and life easier for a better Malaysia. TM R&D’s solutions are clustered around four pillars namely Intelligent Platforms, Data Brokerage, Connectivity/Tools and IR4.0/Digital Solutions. Growing from strength to strength, TM R&D has won multiple global awards and generated more than 2,800 Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) and 1,400 digital assets to date. TM R&D’s innovations are developed in-house and cut across multiple industries such as Utilities, Retail, Agriculture, Healthcare and Education, with safety and productivity as its top priority.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
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, PETRONAS AND GENTARI PARTNER TO DRIVE DIGITAL AND SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION FOR INDUSTRY AND NATION BUILDING
KUALA LUMPUR, 19 DECEMBER 2024 – TM has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PETRONAS through its digital arm PETRONAS Digital Sdn Bhd (PDSB), and clean energy arm Gentari Sdn Bhd (Gentari), to drive digital transformation and sustainable innovation for industries and the nation. Under this collaboration, TM and PETRONAS will explore new revenue streams through the expansion of product offerings to enterprise and consumer markets, and drive growth and innovation through data centre, advanced cloud and connectivity for Malaysian businesses. The integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Internet of Things (IoT)-based solutions is expected to optimise city services, improve operational efficiency, and enhance public services, contributing to a smarter and more sustainable future. The MoU was exchanged between Megawati Norhashim, Vice President, Enterprise Business, TM One; Ts. Shaharuddin Hamid Mustapha, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), PDSB; and Shah Yang Razalli, Deputy CEO & Chief Green Mobility Officer, Gentari; The exchange was witnessed by Shazurawati Abd Karim, Executive Vice President for TM One on behalf of TM; Ir. Mohd Yusri Mohamed Yusof, Senior Vice President, Project Delivery & Technology; and Izwan Ismail, Vice President of Group Technology & Commercialisation on behalf of PETRONAS and Gentari. Shazurawati said, “We are pleased to partner with PETRONAS to drive digital and sustainable innovations that will empower growth, industry advancements, and Malaysia's technological capabilities. TM’s established nationwide infrastructure and diverse solutions, aligning with PETRONAS’ goals for energy transformation. By harnessing the power of 5G, cloud, AI, and IoT, we are laying the groundwork for a more efficient and resilient future. This reflects our shared vision for a digitally advanced and sustainable Malaysia, a pivotal commitment in TM’s efforts to become a Digital Powerhouse by 2030.” Ir. Yusri noted, “Today marks a significant milestone in PETRONAS’ and TM’s collaboration, now further strengthened and poised for an even greater impact with Gentari on board. This MoU will foster the creation of valuable applications that harness the power of technology including clean technologies, which can serve as benchmarks for large-scale implementation across various industries. Anchored by PETRONAS’ commitment towards purposeful value creation and positive social impact, we are excited for the transformations ahead. Together, we aim to push the envelope of establishing a thriving digital ecosystem that is also environmentally sustainable." The partnership between Gentari and TM further explores the integration of clean energy solutions through solar and EV charging in TM facilities. Shah shared, “We are pleased to support this collaboration, which emphasises the role of clean energy in fostering Malaysia’s progress in digitalisation and sustainability. By integrating renewable energy and green mobility solutions into TM’s operations, we aim to contribute a sustainable pathway towards the nation’s energy transition. This collaboration underscores our shared effort to create a more sustainable digital ecosystem and supports Malaysia’s aspirations of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.” TM, PETRONAS and Gentari will continue to set new standards in the industry by harnessing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices to create new milestones in Malaysia’s digital transformation.
UNIFI TV LAUNCHES ALL-NEW ANEKA PLUS PACK WITH VIDIO, ONE OF SEA’S TOP 3 STREAMING APPS
KUALA LUMPUR, 13 SEPTEMBER 2024 – Unifi TV, Malaysia’s largest platform of premier channels and streaming apps, relaunched its popular Aneka Plus Pack, now bundled with Vidio, Indonesia’s number one streaming app which is also among Southeast Asia’s (SEA) top three platforms. Being the only streaming platform to reach more than 4 million subscribers in Indonesia alone, Vidio’s extensive library of Indonesian content is anticipated to resonate well with Malaysian viewers. Its comprehensive offerings include Vidio Original series Gelas Kaca, Ratu Adil and Santri Pilihan Bunda featuring cast such as Aura Kasih, Dian Sastrowardoyo, Naura Ayu and many more. Jasmine Lee, Unifi’s Chief Commercial Officer, Consumer, said, “Our partnership with Vidio marks an exciting milestone for Unifi TV, enhancing the value we provide our customers with the addition of Indonesia’s number one streaming app. Vidio’s extensive library of premium Indonesian content provides Unifi TV subscribers access to even more channels, TV shows, sports and entertainment options, bundled conveniently with their broadband subscription. “This collaboration reinforces Unifi’s commitment to deliver the most comprehensive convergence suite of fibre broadband, 5G mobile, TV, and lifestyle services as part of our Unifi UniVerse offerings. Integrating Vidio reflects our commitment to continuously add value across our offerings, and exemplifies TM’s Digital Powerhouse aspirations to redefine digital access and experiences for a better future," Jasmine added. Hermawan Sutanto, Managing Director of Vidio, said, "We are thrilled to embark on this journey with Unifi TV and bring our unique content to Malaysian audiences. Vidio excels in premium Indonesian content, entertainment and sports. We believe that we can enrich Unifi TV’s entertainment experience especially given the shared values between Malaysian and Indonesian cultures. “This partnership marks a significant milestone for Vidio, reaffirming our commitment to expanding our footprint and delivering high-quality entertainment beyond Indonesia. We believe this collaboration will pave the way for more international ventures and strengthen our position as a key player in the streaming industry," he added. Vidio is available via the new Aneka Plus Pack, which also includes more than 20 premium channels and three streaming apps for only RM30 a month. An a la carte option is also available to new and existing Unifi subscribers (with and without TV Packs) from only RM8.40 a month. Customers can also enjoy a one-month complimentary viewing from now until 24 September 2024 with the Vidio a la carte subscription. For more information on Unifi TV and its offerings, visit unifi.com.my/tv
NEWSLETTER
Just drop your details and stay updated with the world of Telekom Malaysia. We promise – no spam!