Hong Kong – Telecommunications companies HKT, AIS, Globe, Optus, Singtel, Taiwan Mobile, and Telkomsel have announced that they will be initiating a collaboration as an alliance to launch a first-of-its-kind cross-border rewards programme.
This collaboration between the companies aims at delivering greater value to eligible customers when they travel to Hong Kong, Thailand, the Philippines, Australia, Singapore, Taiwan or Indonesia where the telcos are respectively based.
The programme, which is set to be progressively rolled out in the second half of 2024, will allow eligible travelers to enjoy special offers and redeem vouchers for transport, dining, merchandise, services and other incentives from the relevant telcos’ apps conveniently when they visit any of these markets.
Additionally, they can also access customer support from their telco via calls or online while overseas for free.
Talking about this initiative, Monita Leung, chief executive officer of Digital Ventures at HKT, said, “Through this collaboration, we are delighted to extend these privileges to customers of the Alliance visiting Hong Kong, enriching their local travel experiences and contributing to the tourism industry in Hong Kong. Moreover, HKT customers can relish the convenience of a seamless journey and take advantage of enticing cross-border special offers when traveling to the markets within the Alliance.”
Pratthana Leelapanang, chief consumer business at AIS, added, “The collaboration in this project marks a significant global milestone, as major telecommunications service providers in the Asian region come together to enhance customer care across borders with the concept of the world’s first cross-border telco rewards. This sets a new standard in the telecommunications industry, aiming to enhance the ultimate experience and unique privileges for AIS customers when traveling and using services from partner networks in six destinations.”
Darius Delgado, head, consumer mobile business at Globe, also added, “Through this programme, we will be able to give cross-border perks, experiences and unique offers to our subscribers when they travel to partner destinations. With this, we can ensure that when yuppies travel with GOMO PH, they are in for an adventure of a lifetime!”
Matt Williams, managing director of customer solutions at Optus, mentioned, “We are thrilled to be part of the launch of this pioneering travel rewards programme, representing our commitment to enhancing the lives of our valued Optus customers. We are looking forward to bringing this programme to our customers soon and invite them to join us in these unique experiences.”
Anna Yip, chief executive officer, business development at Singtel, remarked, “We value our customers’ loyalty and want to enhance their travel experience. With this unique reciprocal rewards programme, our customers can access exciting local rewards and offers when they visit any of the markets within the Alliance. We’re starting with our regional partners but plan to expand this programme to cover key travel corridors and popular destinations globally so our customers will have an even wider array of opportunities and new experiences to enjoy when they’re abroad.”
Meanwhile, Tony Lin, chief consumer business officer at Taiwan Mobile, said, “Imagine browsing authentic Taiwanese souvenirs while waiting for your flight, and paying for all your purchases using your loyalty points! That’s the exciting innovation we’re bringing to travellers through the Telco Rewards Alliance. Over ten million travellers across the Alliance’s participating telco networks can seamlessly access local data plans, convenient airport transfers, and unforgettable experiences, all with a few taps on your phone. This initiative will revolutionise travel convenience and customisation for our customers. Join us and discover the magic of Taiwan, one delightful reward at a time!”
Lastly, Derrick Heng, chief marketing officer at Telkomsel, commented, “Reflecting Telkomsel’s steadfast dedication to pioneering innovations and surpassing customer expectations, we are proud to introduce the world’s first cross-border telco rewards programme. This pioneering initiative aims to enrich the international travel experience, offering them superior benefits and the opportunity to immerse themselves in unique local experiences just like a local.”
