Tag: Telco

Jakarta, Indonesia – Following the merger of three telcos–PT XL Axiata Tbk, PT Smartfren Telecom Tbk, and PT Smart Telecom, Indonesia officially welcomes the establishment of PT XLSMART Telecom Sejahtera Tbk, marketing a new chapter in the country’s telco industry. In a press release, XLSmart stated that the company is poised to redefine connectivity, drive innovation, and elevate customer experience across the archipelago.

With a combined market share of 25%, projected proforma revenue of IDR 45.8 trillion, and a customer base exceeding 94.5 million, XLSMART is positioning itself as a key player in the industry.

Company leadership has also emphasised a focus on customer-centric operations. Rajeev Sethi, president director and CEO of XLSMART, stated that the company aims to enhance responsiveness and service quality across both urban and rural regions of Indonesia.

“The establishment of XLSMART is a defining step toward realizing our purpose: to connect every Indonesian for a better life. We bring together the complementary strengths of XL Axiata and Smartfren under a unified leadership and shared vision—setting the pace for Indonesia’s digital progress,” Rajeev said.

He added, “We will continue to operate our beloved brands to serve our mobile cellular and home broadband customers through XL, AXIS, and Smartfren as well as SME’s and corporate customers with XLSMART for Business, while enhancing service quality, expanding coverage, and introducing smarter, more integrated digital experiences. With over 94,5 million customers1, each connection matters, and we are committed to delivering services that are reliable, inclusive, and transformative.”

Alongside its strategic vision, XLSMART has introduced a new brand identity. The centerpiece of the rebranding is the “Infinity World” logogram, which the company says symbolises unlimited connectivity and opportunities. The brand’s tagline, “Bersama, Melaju Tanpa Batas” (“Go Beyond, Together”), reflects the organization’s goals of collaboration and growth following the merger.

The company has also launched an updated digital presence, allowing customers to access information about its products and services.

“Our new identity reflects not just who we are, but what we aim to build—an Indonesia that thrives in the digital age. The Infinity World logogram captures our belief in progress without limits. Together with our customers, employees, and partners, we’re setting the pace for a smarter, more connected nation,” Rajeev concluded.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Axiata Group Berhad and Sinar Mas have jointly announced the signing of two Letters of Intent (LOIs) to explore and advance a series of strategic collaborations at a ceremony graced by Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim and His Excellency Prabowo Subianto, the President of Indonesia, at the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur.

The first LOI lays a robust foundation for progressing detailed discussions outlining specific projects and initiatives that drive further collaboration around potential synergies in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Southeast Asia. 

Meanwhile, the second LOI reaffirms Axiata’s and Sinar Mas’s various commitments set out in the definitive agreements jointly announced on 11 December 2024 to progress the proposed merger of PT XL Axiata Tbk, PT Smartfren Telecom Tbk, and PT Smart Telcom to form PT XLSmart Telecom Sejahtera Tbk, to known as XLSmart in Indonesia.

Leveraging their respective telecommunications ecosystems, Axiata and Sinar Mas aim to explore opportunities to unlock value for stakeholders in several high-growth areas, including advanced 5G solutions, enterprise services, digital infrastructure, and fintech innovations. Ultimately, these potential advancements stand to support digital transformation initiatives across the region.

Under the scope of the first LOI, Axiata and Sinar Mas will jointly conduct detailed market analyses, evaluate competitive landscapes, and identify unmet demand across priority markets. Both companies will assess core competencies within their respective ecosystems to prioritise opportunities and define optimal operating models to effectively capture market potential. 

The parties also intend to facilitate strategic partnerships to incubate new businesses and solutions, ensuring alignment with national and regional digital economy agendas.

Meanwhile, the merger remains subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals, as well as customary closing conditions. Assuming all approvals and conditions are met, completion is expected in the first half of 2025. All material updates regarding the merger will be communicated through official channels, including exchange announcements, regulatory disclosures, and respective company websites.

Vivek Sood, group chief executive officer at Axiata Group, said, “These Letters of Intent with Sinar Mas represent a pivotal step in advancing regional collaboration to shape Southeast Asia’s next wave of digital transformation and advance services in high-growth areas. By deepening and reaffirming our ongoing partnership with Sinar Mas, we aim to harness the transformative potential of 5G, enterprise solutions, and digital infrastructure to drive sustainable economic growth and bridge the digital divide across Malaysia, Indonesia, and beyond.”

He added, “We deeply appreciate the steadfast support of the governments of Malaysia and Indonesia, whose forward-looking policies on connectivity and digital inclusion have set a strong foundation for such partnerships. By aligning our shared ambitions with national and regional digital economy agendas, we are laying the groundwork for a vibrant and inclusive digital ecosystem that delivers transformative services, empowers businesses, and enriches lives.”

Meanwhile, Franky Oesman Widjaja, chairman of Sinar Mas Telecommunications and Technology, commented: “These two Letters of Intent signed today with Axiata represent an exciting chapter in our shared mission to accelerate Malaysia and Indonesia’s digital transformation. We are confident in our ability to unlock synergies, deliver long-term value for stakeholders, and make a meaningful impact on the region’s digital economy by enhancing connectivity, fostering innovation, and empowering businesses and communities.”

“Sinar Mas is keen to collaborate with Axiata to explore new innovative opportunities while supporting Malaysia and Indonesia’s vision of a thriving and inclusive digital economy. Together, we aim to set a benchmark for regional collaboration, creating a more interconnected and prosperous future.”

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has selected U Mobile as Malaysia’s second 5G network. The selection based on the evaluation criteria emphasising the provider’s ability to offer diverse and affordable 5G services enabling Malaysians to enjoy high-speed connectivity at an affordable price.

MCMC stated that the choice made is based on a combination of factors, including the submitted business and technical plan, complaint rates and customer satisfaction track records, and their performance in delivering other infrastructure initiatives. 

This includes significant contributions to the Universal Service Provision (USP) projects such as JENDELA Phase 1 and 4G Upgrading projects, which align with MCMC’s commitment to enhancing user experience and service excellence.

Through this selection, regulatory responsibilities for U Mobile can be enforced in accordance with established compliance requirements. In cases of non-compliance, penalties will be imposed. As the second 5G network provider, U Mobile is permitted to collaborate with other ecosystem partners, subject to MCMC approval. 

MCMC will continuously monitor and assess these partnerships to ensure their benefits are enjoyed by all Malaysians. 

It is worth noting that MCMC is aware of U Mobile’s current foreign shareholding, and is the license holder’s responsibility to inform MCMC of any changes in the company’s foreign ownership.

“With the establishment of a second 5G network, MCMC is paving the way for greater service flexibility and inclusivity. This development encourages competition and strengthens industry resilience, enabling Malaysians to enjoy high-speed connectivity at an affordable price. MCMC will continue to monitor quality standards among all service providers to ensure a robust and reliable telecommunications landscape for the nation’s future,” the commission said in a press statement.

In response to this, U Mobile had expressed theirheartfelt gratitude to the Malaysian government for selecting them to implement the nation’s second 5G network.

“We are excited to collaborate with various stakeholders, including MCMC and other telecommunications companies such as CelcomDigi and Telekom Malaysia to deliver world-class 5G-Advanced services to consumers. U Mobile has been proactively engaging with leading global technology providers including Huawei, with whom we have had a long and enduring partnership. U Mobile will also be working with DNB to ensure consumers continue to enjoy the best 5G experience,” the telco stated.

U Mobile also highlighted that in alignment with their commitment to the national agenda, U Mobile will reduce its foreign majority shareholding to 20%, ensuring greater Malaysian control and inviting participation from local investors.

Meanwhile, other giant Malaysian telcos–Maxis, Telekom Malaysia, and CelcomDigi–all have released separate statements related to the government’s decisions. Nonetheless, the three telcos have stipulated in their statements that their 5G offerings to customers remain unaffected and that they remain committed to serve their customers and continue working with the national government in improving national connectivity.

For context, the second 5G network refers to an additional 5G infrastructure that complements the existing Single Wholesale Network (SWN) model provided by Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB). This dual network (DN) approach introduces more competition in the telecommunications landscape, driving innovation and enhancing service quality. 

With the second 5G network, Malaysia can diversify service options, ensuring that consumers have access to more competitive prices and improved coverage. This step is crucial for bridging the digital divide and boosting economic growth through better digital infrastructure and wider reach, especially in underserved rural areas.

Singapore – As part of its anti-scam measures, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has partnered with telcos Singtel, M1, StarHub, and SIMBA to allow mobile subscribers in Singapore to block calls from international numbers.

Starting January 5 onwards, Singaporean mobile users will have the option to subscribe to call blocking services offered by Singtel, M1, StarHub, and SIMBA. By opting in, all calls made from international numbers will automatically be blocked. On the other hand, calls made from Singapore numbers, including those using overseas roaming, will be received as per normal.

Subscribers using the service can also enable and disable the international number blocking option based on their needs, such as if they’re expecting international calls or when they’re travelling overseas.

This new service is part of IMDA’s multi-layered measures for fighting scammers, including those operating from overseas. IMDA has been working with several telcos to solve Singapore’s problem with international scam calls and messages.

Since 2023, the telcos have recorded more than 300 million scam calls, and approximately one in every four incoming calls from international numbers has been blocked for this period.

IMDA is also working with telcos on plans to extend the service by blocking SMS from international numbers as well.

In a press release, IMDA stated, “Combatting scams is a whole-of-society effort, and the public should continue to remain vigilant. The public should continue to exercise caution when receiving calls and SMS as scammers’ tactics continue to evolve. Scammers will continue to change their methods and tactics, and there is no foolproof measure even as we continue to monitor and implement additional safeguards.”

The statement continued, “IMDA will continue to work with other stakeholders in the fight against scams. A discerning public is the key in this fight, where consumers are individually alert and raise collective awareness by sharing scam prevention tips with friends and loved ones.”

Singapore – Gorilla, the mobile telecommunications branch of Society Pass (SoPa), a fintech and e-commerce ecosystem in Southeast Asia, has announced the release of its latest mobile telecommunications app, which aims to deliver a broad range of capable digital mobile communication options intended for both SEA travellers and working professionals.

With its e-SIM technology, Gorilla collaborated with more than 500 mobile operators in 190 countries to provide roaming mobile data to business travellers in the SEA region and globally. This product functions as a virtual SIM card integrated into the user’s phone, removing the need for a physical SIM card. It will allow customers to manage numerous cellular providers on a single device, allowing for seamless travel as well as distinct personal and commercial subscriptions. 

The Gorilla telco will launch its ‘Switchback Rewards’ feature in 2023, where users can utilise this tool to convert unused mobile data and credit into SOPA loyalty points, which can be redeemed for incentives and offers across the SOPA platform. Gorilla’s virtual mobile number provides consumers with low-cost data plans for global internet connectivity.

Rokas Sidlauskas, chief marketing officer of SoPa, explainsed that Gorilla’s next-generation technology is targeted at the fast-growing business travel segment here in SEA. 

“Our digital e-SIM product allows customers to buy data credit and stay connected online with their mobile devices while travelling abroad. By 2H 2023, our suite of services will expand into local e-SIM provisions. Gorilla plans to offer a revolutionary Switchback Rewards feature, allowing any unused mobile data and credit to be converted into SOPA Loyalty Points and redeemed for awards across the ecosystem,” he said.

Singapore – Circles.Life, Singapore’s fully digital telco, has appointed global marketing agency, TEAM LEWIS, as its agency partner for public relations and influencer engagement.

Taking effect last April 2023, TEAM LEWIS will support Circles.Life in conceptualising, developing, and implementing PR strategies and activities in Singapore. In addition to providing consultancy services, the agency will also be responsible for the creation of relevant and impactful mainstream, online and social media coverage for Circles.Life to further bolster the positioning and messaging the brand has to offer.

The fully digital telco company continues to be a key player in disrupting the traditional notions of a telco service provider, with offerings such as unlimited data, rollover data, and its new travel plan, JetPac, allowing users to roam anytime, anywhere with added features such as airport lounge access.

One of the founders of Circles.Life, Rameez Ansar, commented on the appointment, “As the fourth largest telco in Singapore, we are constantly revolutionising our digital service experience, while continuously reinventing ourselves to stay relevant for our ever-changing customers’ needs. TEAM LEWIS has demonstrated an understanding of the brand and provided a strategic direction in line with our brand messaging.” 

Pamela Tor Das, managing director of TEAM LEWIS Singapore, said, “Circles.Life is known for its making innovative and bold moves that have made waves across Singapore’s telco industry. We are thrilled to be its partner of choice for integrated communications in Singapore and can’t wait to showcase what else the brand has to offer.” 

The appointment followed a competitive pitch for the account last December, with the appointment being finalised in March 2023.

Malaysia – In conjunction with Malaysia’s 65th Independence Day, also known as Merdeka, local telco provider Celcom has launched a new campaign to remind Malaysians to embrace the spirit upon which Merdeka was founded – happiness. 

Themed ‘Bahagia Kita’, which translates to ‘We are happy’ in English’, the campaign explores the heart of the country’s harmony and happiness – the core values of kindness, acceptance, and understanding upheld by every Malaysian, as foretold by Bapa Kemerdekaan Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia’s Father of Independence. With inclusivity in mind, Celcom also aims to honour all cultures from East to West Malaysia by celebrating both Merdeka & Malaysia Day.

The thematic film follows the journey of 11-year-old Haikal. After he’s assigned to write a poem about Independence for school, he sets off on an eye-opening adventure around his neighbourhood. Haikal witnesses everyday Malaysian scenes and immerses himself in many multicultural experiences, and on this journey, he learns that all Malaysians are inherently kind and that the little things are what contribute to the nation’s happiness.

“As a homegrown organisation that believes in advancing society, the mantra of encouraging Malaysians to embrace happiness will help Malaysians advance positively into a future that we would be all proud of,” said Celcom. 

Moreover, in this festive season, Celcom will also help Malaysians stay happily connected with limited-time offerings, including free devices, unlimited Internet, flexible plans, and free home fibre for life, amongst others.

Singapore – Singapore-based telecom ViewQwest, has partnered with Hong Kong’s telecom and technology solutions provider HKBN Enterprise Solutions (HKBNES) to both elevate their regional capabilities in providing ICT and digital transformation (DX) services to customers in APAC, especially for large regional retailers. 

By combining ViewQwest’s extensive regional network with HKBNES’ one-stop digital solutions, the two companies will be able to further strengthen their regional capabilities to create win-win-win outcomes with customers.

Moreover, leveraging HKBNES’ competitive ICT and digital solutions capabilities, ViewQwest will be working with HKBNES in deploying digital transformation services in Hong Kong and Macau. Both will be establishing a colocation facility in HKBN’s data centre, providing on-ground technical and engineering support to ViewQwest’s customers in Hong Kong and Macau, including software and hardware installation and troubleshooting services.

Vignesa Moorthy, CEO of ViewQwest, shared that their partnership with HKBN leverages their deep knowledge and experience in the Hong Kong and Macau market, and it will enable them to better serve their customers with regional operations.

“This combined play marks a significant milestone in our journey and mission to help our customers build and transform their network and security architecture with confidence, streamlining operations, driving cost-savings, and enabling business agility,” said Moorthy.

Meanwhile, William Ho, co-owner-to-be and CEO at HKBNES, noted that this is a unique growth opportunity to further enhance their position as one of the most trusted ICT and digital transformation solutions providers, as they can more dynamically meet their customers’ diverse business and strategy needs – like expanding into overseas markets.

“This world-class partnership will strengthen HKBNES’ footprint in Singapore, and provide us with a solid foundation for accelerated development and growth in the Southeast Asia and APAC markets,” said Ho.

Manila, Philippines – The Philippine telecommunications industry is facing new challenges, as telco giant Globe Telecom and new player DITO have exchanged public statements regarding their business operations and performance.

It first started with DITO, who filed two complaints at the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) against Globe Telecom and Smart Communications for their competitive business behaviour, more specifically during their interconnection agreement.

Said interconnection agreements allow DITO users to send texts and make calls to users of PLDT’s Smart and Globe.

“It has become very difficult for our subscribers to interconnect with Globe and Smart,” said Adel Tamano, chief administrative officer at DITO through CNN Philippines.

Meanwhile, the PCC has acknowledged DITO’s complaints, stating that interconnection is an essential component of the telecommunications industry as it allows interoperability and exchange of calls, SMS, and other information from one network to another.

Johannes R. Bernabe, the OIC chairperson at the Philippine Competition Commission, said, “Our Competition Enforcement Office (CEO) is now evaluating the merits of Dito’s complaints. The Commission has 10 days within which to decide whether or not to give due course to the complaint. If given due course, our CEO will proceed to investigate the charges and if it subsequently finds sufficient basis, file with the Commission en banc a Statement of Objections against the allegedly erring entities.”

In response, Globe Telecom has released a statement, asking the country’s National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to require DITO to pay up to PHP622m in interconnection penalties.

According to Globe’s statement, around 1,000 fraudulent calls– identified as international in origin but masked as local calls– are allowed to pass through DITO’s network to Globe users every day, a clear violation of interconnection deals.

“Clearly, DITO has not only failed to compensate Globe, but it also has not taken any serious actions to curtail bypass activities emanating from its network and terminating in Globe’s. Indeed, these bypass activities have not waned but have in fact continuously increased over the said period. DITO’s twin failures to check these bypass activities and pay Globe what it is justly due have worked on a continuing serious prejudice against Globe,” the telco said.

Globe and DITO have signed an interconnection agreement in February 2021 which covers domestic mobile calls and SMS enabling Globe’s customers to make mobile calls, send SMS with DITO Telecommunity’s customers without additional charges.

Singapore – To honour Singapore’s National Day, which is celebrated every 9 August, the telco Singtel has launched a new campaign that illustrates how its telecoms infrastructure and engineering expertise have been vital to the staging of the National Day Parade since the 1960s, through the early days of 3G to a fully 5G nation today.

Titled ‘The Making of a 5G Nation’, the film tells the story of Singtel’s planners and engineers for whom wiring up the Marina Bay floating platform with 5G is a mission they are immensely proud to undertake.

Mark Chong, Singtel’s group chief technology officer, shared that when thousands of people want to live stream and send videos at the same time, from multiple 5G-enabled devices that are concurrently streaming over global online mediums, great demands are placed on their network which will be seriously tested in terms of its power and reliability.

“From our experience supporting this event through the years, and our 5G trials in Sentosa, we’ve picked up important lessons on managing complex technology for an even more memorable experience. It is our privilege to support the Parade every year and we’re excited to bring 5G to everyone this year to commemorate Singapore’s birthday,” said Chong

Meanwhile, Lian Pek, Singtel’s vice president of strategic communications and brand, noted that this is the first time they’ve thrown the spotlight on their planners and engineers, the unsung heroes who work quietly behind the scenes, year after year, to pull off one of the most anticipated events in the national calendar.

“This year’s NDP is particularly special for us as a company as we’ve reached nationwide 5G coverage 3 years ahead of time, effectively making Singapore the first country in the world to be fully covered by standalone 5G. The significance of this milestone, and a 5G-enabled live Parade, after a two-year hiatus due to COVID, calls for a celebration with fellow Singaporeans. This is the leap in technology that will help carry Singapore forward as it moves on from the pandemic,” said Pek.

Singtel said that preparations for this year’s National Day Parade started as early as a year ago, with its teams working to enhance capacity and optimise and test 5G mobile coverage to ensure spectators at the event are well supported.

The campaign will be airing on Singtel TV and various social media channels.