Yes 5G is kicking off the festive season with a bang, offering Malaysians an incredible deal: 999GB of data for just RM1. This limited-time offer is part of the telco’s latest “KAWKAWKAW” campaign that kicked off on November 5th, 2024 and will run until February 5th, 2025.
Source: Yes
With Yes 5G’s prepaid and postpaid offerings, you’ll be able to use this data in multiple ways. You’ll even be able to use the data with your hotspot which is shared with your monthly data quota on certain Yes 5G plans. Here are a few ideas of what to do with 999GB of data at your fingertips:
Gaming: Enjoy up to 50 hours of seamless, lag-free gaming with NVIDIA’s GeForce Now service.
Entertainment: Binge-watch your favorite shows and movies, or stream music for hours on end.
Productivity: Work remotely, attend virtual meetings, and collaborate seamlessly.
Content Creation: Upload high-quality videos and photos, and live stream without worrying about data limits.
The KAWKAWKAW promo will allow you to access 999GB of uncapped 4G and 5G data on Yes’s network. You can also purchase the KAWKAWKAW add-on multiple times throughout the campaign period. However, the data cannot be stacked; you will only be able to buy the add-on after the previous data allocation is depleted or expires.
Amelia Henderson Joins the Yes 5G Family
To make the KAWKAWKAW campaign even more exciting, Yes 5G has partnered with popular Malaysian actress and singer, Amelia Henderson. As the brand’s newest ambassador, Amelia will help spread the word about Yes 5G’s commitment to providing affordable and high-quality 5G services.
This article is contributed by Bijay Singh, Global Head, Business Unit Healthcare at DKSH.
The Asia Pacific (APAC) region, home to 60% of the global population, is emerging as a key market for global medical device companies.[1] This shift is underscored by the potential of the APAC region, which encompasses a diverse array of cultures, languages, and socioeconomic backgrounds, and a healthcare market that has already surpassed Europe to become the second-largest market globally, right behind the United States.[2] Key drivers for this growth include rising income levels, an ageing population, and an increased prevalence of chronic diseases, all contributing to the heightened demand for medical devices.[3] However, the APAC region embodies a spectrum of healthcare systems, ranging from densely populated urban centres with state-of-the-art medical facilities to remote communities facing formidable barriers to access. These disparities in the healthcare space highlight the need for innovative solutions to transform the healthcare delivery system, addressing key issues such as access barriers and shortages of manpower and resources. This is where the crucial role of medical devices comes into play.
Population Dynamics across APAC
By 2050, the number of individuals aged 60 and above in the APAC region is projected to more than double, reaching a staggering 1.3 billion.[4] This demographic trend brings with it a host of healthcare challenges, including an increased burden of age-related diseases and conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.[5]
Source: DKSH / A woman is measuring her blood pressure while consulting with a doctor via telemedicine video call on a laptop at home
Alongside an ageing population, there is a marked increase in the prevalence of chronic and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, which collectively contribute to 41 million deaths each year, representing approximately 74% of global mortality.[6] In APAC, NCD-related deaths are prominent, with some countries reporting rates as high as 90% of total fatalities.[7] The lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, severely straining healthcare resources, disrupting routine care services, and revealing critical gaps in preparedness and response capabilities.[8] Healthcare facilities are grappling with issues like overcrowding, reduced physician-to-population ratios, limited medicine availability, and inadequate funding. Projections from the World Health Organisation (WHO) indicate an imminent global deficit by 2030, with Southeast Asia alone expected to account for 40% of this shortfall.[9] For instance, in 2023, Indonesia reported a deficit of 31,481 specialist doctors,[10] while the Philippines anticipates a 25-year timeline to achieve the ideal doctor-patient ratio.[11] These challenges are further compounded by factors such as rapid population growth, lifestyle shifts, urbanization, emigration of healthcare workers, and an ageing healthcare workforce.
Harmonising Healthcare with Medical Device Innovations
Amidst the growing demand for healthcare services, the medical devices sector stands as a burgeoning industry poised to reshape healthcare approaches. Analysts project that, by 2028, the Asian medical devices market will account for more than USD 156 billion in revenue.[12] The next frontier in healthcare innovation will involve an increased focus on the digitalisation of medical devices, thereby enhancing access, convenience, and patient-centred care.
In recent years, we are already seeing more medical devices being used across the healthcare system:
Remote monitoring and telemedicine: Medical devices, including wearable sensors, smart watches, remote monitoring devices, and telemedicine platforms, empower healthcare providers to remotely monitor patients’ vital signs, health status, and treatment adherence. This allows caregivers to monitor multiple patients simultaneously despite manpower shortages. For instance, the Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitoring system, available in Singapore and Japan, allows for real-time monitoring, integrated with wearable sensors and a transmitter for the measurement of blood glucose values.
Point-of-care testing: Point-of-care testing devices offer rapid and convenient diagnostic capabilities outside of traditional laboratory settings. These devices can be particularly valuable in resource-limited settings or remote areas. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, multiple home-test kits were developed to allow the first round of testing at home. This also helped people adhere to the social distancing norms.
Self-management apps: Mobile health (mHealth) apps and devices empower patients to take an active role in managing their health and well-being. These apps enable users to track their exercise, diet, medication adherence, and vital signs, providing valuable insights into their health status and facilitating communication with healthcare providers.
Home-based care: Technological advancements have facilitated the development of home medical devices, and enhanced patient care convenience while reducing hospitalization expenses, promoting patient independence, and improving quality of life. Devices such as home infusion pumps, portable oxygen concentrators, and remote monitoring systems empower chronic patients to manage their health outside of traditional healthcare settings. DKSH’s service Home Pulse exemplifies this shift by delivering high-quality healthcare services directly to patients’ homes in Thailand. This approach has the potential to enhance the role of home-based medical devices, optimizing resource allocation and cutting overall healthcare costs for the future.
While the accelerated adoption of medical devices can transform the healthcare landscape, a critical challenge lies in enabling healthcare professionals (HCPs) to interpret collected data. This is a common industry issue, where a significant amount of data either falls through the cracks or becomes overwhelming, making it difficult to analyse and utilise effectively. Statistics paint a concerning picture, revealing that 97% of health data produced by hospitals remains unanalysed, and 46% of healthcare leaders view data management as a significant burden.[13] This translates to a vast reservoir of potentially life-saving insights remaining untapped. Hence, addressing the challenges of data interpretation will allow HCPs to unlock the true potential of medical devices and pave the way for personalised healthcare in APAC.
Collaborative Efforts to Propel Medical Devices Growth
In 2023, the region’s medical devices market reached a value of USD 111.93 billion, and projections suggest that it will further grow at a CAGR of 6.8% and reach USD 166.1 billion by 2029.[14] Driving this growth in APAC demands a collaborative approach involving government bodies, healthcare providers, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders.
Source: DKSH / Consulting doctor visit via a mobile app at home i.e telemedicine
Regulatory developments play a pivotal role in strengthening the sector’s upward trajectory. Harmonising and streamlining regulatory frameworks are essential to facilitate faster approval and market entry of new medical devices. Regional agreements, like those within ASEAN[15] aim to establish consistent regulations, streamline approval processes, and enhance market access for medical devices across borders.[16] By aligning standards and regulations, regulatory bodies seek to create a more predictable and transparent environment for manufacturers, distributors, and healthcare providers.
Governments should incentivise research and development (R&D) through grants and tax benefits to stimulate local innovation of medical devices. Initiatives like Singapore’s National Health Innovation Centre (NHIC) and South Korea’s National Institute of Health (NIH) fund medical research and support clinical trials, often in collaboration with universities and healthcare companies, enabling efficient validation of new medical devices.[17] Training programs for healthcare professionals on the use of new devices are equally crucial to ensure their effective adoption and utilization. These efforts not only facilitate faster market entry but also ensure that innovations address specific healthcare needs in diverse APAC markets.
Additionally, healthcare distribution facilities are emerging as key growth drivers, streamlining supply chains and enhancing accessibility to medical devices across APAC. DKSH Healthcare’s OP1 in Taiwan, Asia’s largest automated healthcare distribution centre, utilizes advanced automation to expedite the distribution of healthcare solutions, including medical devices, across the region. Distribution centres such as this ensure efficient logistics and support timely delivery and inventory management, which is crucial for meeting healthcare demands in diverse markets. All in all, driving the medical devices sector forward in APAC involves a comprehensive approach to address regulatory, infrastructure, reimbursement, and training challenges while ensuring patient privacy, safety, and equity. Collaboration among healthcare stakeholders, technology developers, policymakers, and regulatory authorities is crucial to improving health outcomes. In this regard, DKSH Healthcare is committed to playing a vital role in this transformation by facilitating the distribution and adoption of innovative medical devices, empowering patients, optimizing resource allocation, and contributing to a healthier future for all in the region.
The vivo V40 Lite 5G is a budget-friendly smartphone that offers a blend of style, performance, and durability. With its sleek design, powerful features, and long-lasting battery, the V40 Lite 5G is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and feature-packed device.
Source: vivo Malaysia
The V40 Lite 5G boasts a sleek and stylish design, available in Titanium Silver, Dynamic Black, and Dreamy Violet. The design is also a marked departure from the design language of the V40 series. The camera module is now a sleek bar with three squircles which house the camera’s three modules and vivo’s signature Aura light. The phone’s 6.67-inch FHD+ AMOLED display offers vibrant colours and a comfortable viewing experience. The device is also durable, with IP64 Dust and Water Resistance and a sturdy build.
The new affordable smartphone runs on the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor promising the best performance and multitasking in the price range. Together with this, the V40 Lite comes with at least 8GB RAM. This is supplemented by up to 16GB of virtualised RAM and up to 512GB of storage. The storage is expandable with a microSD card and should ensure you have plenty of space for your apps and files.
Source: vivo Malaysia
The V40 Lite 5G’s camera system brings the signature vivo photography to a more affordable price point. Notably absent on the V40 Lite is the ZEISS co-branding. However, it doesn’t stop vivo from supping up the smartphone’s camera setup. The smartphone comes with a 50MP Main Camera, 8MP 120° Ultra Wide-Angle Camera, and 32MP Portrait Camera. The setup provides versatility for various shooting scenarios. The AI Aura Light enhances your portraits with natural and even illumination.
The V40 Lite 5G’s 5000mAh battery provides ample power for extended usage. vivo is touting this as the smartphone’s main selling point with extended usage and support for 80W FlashCharge, you can quickly top up your battery when needed. However, the vivo V40 Lite stands out as one of the only smartphones in its price range to come with a 4-year guarantee for smoothness and responsiveness. vivo is guaranteeing the battery life and smoothness of the software experience on the smartphone. That said, the guarantee doesn’t indicate how many updates and security patches it will be receiving.
Pricing and Availability
The vivo V40 Lite 5G is priced at RM1,299 for the version with 256GB of storage and RM1,599 for the version with 512GB of storage. It will be available in Diamond Titanium, Dreamy Violet and Dynamic Black.
Source: vivo Malaysia
Pre-orders for the vivo V40 lite start on 25th October through various online and offline channels. All pre-orders will come with up to RM955 worth of freebies which include 4 years of vivo Care – Battery Warranty, 4 years of vivo Care – Free Screen Protector and Protective Cover, 1 year of extended warranty and screen protection and a vivo selection earbuds and powerbank.
Infinix is heating up the entry-level smartphone market with the HOT 50 5G. This new smartphone offers a compelling combination of performance, design, and features. However, its best asset is the price point below RM600.
Powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 5G processor, the HOT 50 5G is built to deliver impressive performance for a device in this price range. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or multitasking, the processor should handle tasks with ease. The phone also features a 120Hz refresh rate for smooth scrolling and a 240Hz touch sampling rate for responsive touch.
The HOT 50 5G boasts a stylish and modern design, with a 6.7-inch Punch-Hole Display that offers vibrant visuals and a high screen-to-body ratio. The device is also remarkably thin and lightweight, making it comfortable to hold and use. It also comes with IP54 dust and splash resistance, ensuring it can withstand everyday wear and tear.
The HOT 50 5G is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery that provides ample power for extended usage. With 18W fast charging, you can quickly top up the battery when needed. Additionally, the battery is designed to maintain over 80% of its health even after four years, ensuring long-lasting performance
Infinix is also going ham with AI on the HOT 50 5G. The new smartphone comes with Infinix’s AI assistant, Folax, which is always ready to assist with tasks like music, calls, and travel. The AI Creation feature allows you to design cartoon-style wallpapers with a single tap, adding a personal touch to your device.
The HOT 50 5G features a 48MP main camera with the advanced Sony IMX 582 sensor, capturing stunning photos even in low-light conditions. AI Super Night Mode ensures vibrant and detailed night shots, while the Portrait Master Mode offers customizable beauty and makeup features for professional-looking portraits.
The HOT 50 connectivity is boosted by features like Super WiFi, which automatically switches between 2.4G and 5G networks for uninterrupted performance. Gamers will appreciate the device’s smooth gameplay, stunning graphics, and rapid response times, thanks to its powerful hardware and optimized software.
Pricing and Availability
The Infinix HOT 50 5G is available in Sleek Black, Vibrant Blue, Sage Green, and Dreamy Purple colour options. The device is priced at RM599 and will be available for purchase on Shopee starting from October 7th, 2024. After the exclusive Shopee sale, the HOT 50 5G will be available on Infinix Official Stores on Lazada, TikTok Shop, and offline through Infinix Malaysia Authorized Dealers.
It seems Samsung might have accidentally jumped the gun on the official announcement of the Galaxy A16 5G. While there hasn’t been a formal unveiling yet, details about the phone have surfaced on the Samsung Netherlands website. This budget-friendly smartphone boasts 5G connectivity and promises a lengthy software support commitment, making it an interesting option for those seeking an affordable phone with future-proof features.
The information reveals a phone equipped with an Exynos 1330 in Europe. It’s expected that other regions including Southeast Asia may receive a version with a MediaTek processor (specific model not confirmed yet). The processor seems to be paired with 4GB of RAM. Storage options include 128GB, expandable via a microSD card slot for additional storage flexibility.
The display of the Galaxy A16 5G is a 6.7-inch Super AMOLED panel with FHD+ resolution, offering a vibrant and immersive viewing experience. Whether you’re watching videos, browsing the web, or gaming, the A16 5G promises crisp visuals.
The camera department features a triple-lens setup on the back. The main sensor is a 50MP shooter, accompanied by a 5MP ultrawide lens and a 2MP macro lens for capturing close-up details. On the front, a 13MP camera handles selfies and video calls.
Powering the A16 5G is a 5,000mAh battery, which should offer all-day usage on a single charge for most users. The phone also supports 25W fast charging, so you won’t have to wait long to get back up and running.
Samsung Outclasses Other Entry-Level Smartphones with 6 Years of Updates
One of the most exciting aspects of the Galaxy A16 5G is Samsung’s software support commitment. The phone is confirmed to receive six years of Android version updates, ensuring you have access to the latest features and security patches for years to come. This extended support goes beyond what many budget smartphones offer, making the A16 5G a compelling option for users who want to keep their phone for the long haul.
Pricing & Availability
While the official announcement and pricing haven’t been revealed yet, the Samsung Netherlands website suggests it will be available in Turquoise, Light grey and white. The Galaxy A16 5G is currently listed (at the time of writing) for €249 (approximately RM1,133) on the Netherlands and French Samsung websites.
Stay tuned for further details on the official launch and pricing of the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G!
U Mobile and Huawei Malaysia have entered into a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at bolstering the telco’s 5G network capabilities. The collaboration will see both companies work closely to enhance the overall 5G experience, accelerate the deployment of future Radio Access Network (RAN) technologies, and drive 5G adoption among both consumers and enterprises.
Building on their existing partnership, U Mobile will leverage Huawei Malaysia’s global expertise to deploy advanced hardware and software solutions for the nation’s second 5G network. This strategic move is expected to significantly improve network efficiency and performance. Furthermore, the telco will tap into Huawei’s technical prowess to prepare for the integration of future RAN technologies, ensuring that its network remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
To foster greater 5G adoption, U Mobile and Huawei Malaysia will intensify research and development efforts. The collaboration will focus on understanding and addressing the evolving needs of consumers and enterprises, particularly in sectors with high demands for low latency and massive bandwidth, such as those in the enterprise segment.
“U Mobile is delighted to receive Huawei Malaysia’s support for the deployment of the second 5G network. As long-term partners, we have benefitted from Huawei Malaysia’s technologies and global expertise and we believe they will continue to play a critical role in helping us improve the 5G experience and also in our preparations to deploy future RAN technologies,” said Woon Ooi Yuen, Chief Technology Officer at U Mobile. “This will help us ensure that our infrastructure is capable of supporting rapidly evolving and high-performance needs, particularly from enterprises.”
Zac Chow, Vice President of the Carrier Network Business Group at Huawei Malaysia, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Huawei Malaysia looks forward to supporting U Mobile in their future developments. We want to set the stage for a better and more connected future. Our ultimate goal is to bridge the digital divide, and bring digital to every person, home and organisation.”
The latest MoU builds upon a previous agreement signed earlier this year, which focused on 5G innovation and business adoption. This ongoing collaboration underscores the commitment of both companies to driving Malaysia’s digital transformation and enhancing the overall telecommunications landscape in the country.
CelcomDigi has hit a significant milestone in its network integration and modernization journey. Just a year into the three-year project, the company has already surpassed the 50% completion mark, with upgrades completed in Penang and ongoing across the nation. This rapid progress positions CelcomDigi as a frontrunner in building Malaysia’s second 5G network.
Datuk Idham Nawawi, CEO of CelcomDigi, expressed the company’s commitment to building a robust 5G ecosystem. He highlighted that by the end of 2024, over two-thirds of CelcomDigi’s network will be modernized, making it the largest and most advanced digital network in the country. This achievement paves the way for a swift and efficient deployment of a standalone 5G network.
The foundation for this rapid progress lies in CelcomDigi’s extensive 4G network, covering 97% of populated areas. The company has modernized all network components, including RAN, core, and transport, to be 5G-ready. This strategic approach enables simultaneous 4G upgrades and 5G activation, optimizing resources and accelerating deployment.
CelcomDigi’s partnership with over 100 tower and state-backed companies has been instrumental in achieving this milestone. This strong ecosystem, coupled with the company’s efficient execution, has positioned CelcomDigi as a prime candidate for building Malaysia’s second 5G network.
Beyond network infrastructure, CelcomDigi is focused on driving 5G adoption. The company has launched a suite of 5G postpaid, prepaid, and home fibre plans, offering Malaysians access to high-speed internet. Additionally, the CelcomDigi AI Experience Centre (AiX) is at the forefront of 5G and AI innovation, with over 40 global tech partners collaborating on the development of new solutions.
To ensure an exceptional customer experience, CelcomDigi has established specialized teams known as Skuad 5G to conduct rigorous network testing and optimization. This dedication to quality has resulted in noticeable improvements in signal strength and network throughput, particularly in areas like Penang.
As CelcomDigi continues to advance its network modernization efforts, the company aims to deliver an unparalleled network experience to its customers while positioning Malaysia as a leader in 5G technology and innovation.
Malaysia’s telecommunications landscape could be on the cusp of a major shakeup, with Maxis Bhd., one of the country’s leading mobile operators, reportedly considering a buyout of its rival, U Mobile Sdn Bhd. This potential merger, if successful, would mark the second significant consolidation within the industry following the recent Celcom-Digi merger announced in May 2024.
Strategic Move to Consolidate Two Rivals on the Same Page
News of the potential Maxis-U Mobile deal emerged in mid-July 2024. Sources close to the matter claim that Maxis has expressed interest in acquiring U Mobile, with talks currently in their early stages. This move comes at a time when Malaysia is actively accelerating its transition to 5G technology, and both companies are vying for a strategic advantage.
The potential Maxis-U Mobile merger mirrors the recent Celcom-Digi union, which seeks to create a dominant player in the 5G space. With the Malaysian government aiming to roll out nationwide 5G coverage by 2024, consolidation within the telecommunications sector appears to be a strategic move for companies to strengthen their infrastructure and investment capabilities. Notably, U Mobile has been at the forefront of 5G development, collaborating with EDOTCO, a state-owned tower company, to spearhead the deployment of the second 5G network in Malaysia.
While Maxis seems keen on acquiring U Mobile, the latter has reportedly rejected the initial buyout offer. U Mobile, currently the third-largest mobile operator in Malaysia with over 9 million subscribers, is said to be valuing itself at more than RM10 billion (approximately USD 2.3 billion). Interestingly, U Mobile has been contemplating an initial public offering (IPO) since 2021, suggesting an alternative path towards growth and expansion.
MCMC Ready to Oversee Merger
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has expressed its readiness to establish guidelines should Maxis and U Mobile decide to proceed with the merger. The regulator’s focus will likely be on ensuring healthy competition within the market and preventing the creation of a monopoly that could stifle innovation and ultimately harm consumers.
The potential benefits of a Maxis-U Mobile merger are multifaceted. It could lead to a more efficient allocation of resources, reduced network duplication, and potentially lower prices for consumers. However, concerns exist about the potential reduction in competition, which could lead to higher prices and a lack of choice for users. Additionally, job losses within both companies due to potential redundancies remain a key concern.
The potential Maxis-U Mobile merger is shrouded in uncertainty at this point. While Maxis has expressed interest, U Mobile appears hesitant. Both companies have their own strategic considerations, and the MCMC’s regulatory oversight further complicates the picture. However, one thing is clear: if successful, this merger would significantly redraw the Malaysian telecommunications landscape.
It remains to be seen whether the Maxis-U Mobile deal will materialize. However, this potential consolidation serves as a reminder of the ongoing transformation within Malaysia’s telecommunications sector. As the race for 5G dominance heats up, further consolidation and strategic realignments within the industry are not out of the question. Whether these developments benefit consumers or stifle competition depends on the regulatory framework and the companies’ commitment to providing high-quality services at affordable prices.
U Mobile and EDOTCO, Malaysia’s leading mobile and digital services provider and telecommunications infrastructure company respectively, have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expedite the deployment of the country’s second 5G network. This strategic partnership leverages EDOTCO’s extensive tower infrastructure and expertise to empower U Mobile’s efficient and cost-effective rollout, aligning with the government’s dual network model.
Under the MoU, U Mobile gains access to EDOTCO’s vast network of towers, streamlining the identification of optimal locations with the aid of data-driven analytics and artificial intelligence. This collaboration aims to accelerate site acquisition and permit processes through streamlined collaboration with state agencies. Additionally, EDOTCO will ensure timely delivery of these sites, enabling U Mobile to bring its 5G network online faster and expand coverage across the country.
From left to right – Wong Heang Tuck, CEO of U Mobile, Woon Ooi Yuen, CTO of U Mobile, Gayan Koralage, Director of Malaysia Business at EDOTCO, Adlan Tajudin, Group CEO at EDOTCO.
The partnership extends beyond infrastructure access. U Mobile and EDOTCO will explore various cost-efficient commercial arrangements for diverse infrastructure needs. This includes exploring options like “built-to-suit” sites for specific requirements, co-location opportunities at existing towers, and upgrades to existing infrastructure. Indoor coverage solutions are also on the table, ensuring comprehensive network reach within buildings. This joint effort aims to create a competitive offering that facilitates a timely and cost-effective 5G rollout.
Both parties acknowledge the significance of this collaboration. Woon Ooi Yuen, Chief Technology Officer of U Mobile, emphasizes how EDOTCO’s infrastructure footprint will strengthen their position as a key player in deploying the second 5G network. He highlights their commitment to delivering affordable and high-quality 5G services to Malaysians, unlocking the economic potential of this technology for consumers, businesses, and the public sector alike.
Gayan Koralage, Director of Malaysia Business at EDOTCO, echoes this sentiment. He views the partnership as a critical step towards accelerating Malaysia’s journey into a 5G-powered future. EDOTCO, as the nation’s largest tower company, is committed to working with mobile network operators like U Mobile to provide superior telecommunication solutions and shape the future of connectivity in the region.
This MoU builds upon a well-established relationship between the two companies. U Mobile has been a valued partner of EDOTCO since the latter’s inception in 2012, being their first non-Axiata commercial customer. Recently, U Mobile renewed its lease agreement with EDOTCO and is working on on-site consolidation plans, aiming to enhance network aesthetics while reducing operational costs. This further streamlines the 5G rollout process by leveraging existing infrastructure efficiently.
The U Mobile and EDOTCO partnership is a promising step towards a faster and more cost-effective deployment of Malaysia’s second 5G network. By combining U Mobile’s expertise with EDOTCO’s extensive infrastructure and focus on collaboration, Malaysians can expect to experience the benefits of 5G technology sooner and at a more accessible price point.
CelcomDigi is not slowing down. After announcing its new prepaid and postpaid plans, the telco is now revamping CelcomDigi Hub in Subang Jaya’s Hi-tech Park. The new revamp will help showcase how it is empowering different technologies with its integrated solution including 5G.
CelcomDigi Hub has long been one of the company’s best showcases for its technologies. Even before the merger, the Hub served as a showcase for Digi Telecommunications. Now, CelcomDigi is not only bringing its new identity to the building but also bringing it into the future to showcase 5G and AI technologies with its AI Experience Center (AiX). In the heart of the Hub, CelcomDigi is using an interactive system to showcase its 5G and AI applications in The Infinity. This immersive, interactive experience brings you on a tour guided by the CEO of CelcomDigi himself, Datuk Idham Nawawi. The Infinity seems like an apt name for the tour as the possibilities with AI and 5G are limitless (until we get 6G).
YB Fahmi Fadzil, Minister of Communications standing with Datuk Idham Nawawi, CEO of Celcom and other partners at the launch of the AiX.
The tour at The Infinity is only the beginning. CelcomDigi continues to showcase the many use cases of 5G in The Gallery. Here, you’ll be able to see things like remote medical diagnoses, immersive augmented reality medical education and even robotics. The Gallery gives visitors a truly tangible experience with some of the many applications that they are showcasing. Many of these use cases are already deployed in the real world.
Some of the AI and Robotics that will be showcased at the CelcomDigi AiX
CelcomDigi’s AiX isn’t just a stagnant display. The company will be refreshing the experience regularly to showcase the latest it has to offer. The AiX will also serve as a collaboration space where CelcomDigi, its partners and interested parties are able to collaborate and innovate to leverage AI technologies and 5G. The space is equipped with a cutting-edge live lab environment that will allow interested parties to test and collaborate. In addition, guests at the AiX will also be hosted by AI-RA, the first AI digital human. AI-RA will be giving visitors a rundown of all the innovations that will be featured in AiX. Together with AI-RA, the new AiX will also be populated by a fleet of AI robotics that cater to the different needs of the AiX and its visitors.
YB Fahmi Fadzil, Minister of Communications, getting hands-on with Robotics innovations in The Gallery in CelcomDigi’s AiX
CEO, Datuk Idham Nawawi noted, “Emerging technologies such as AI are revolutionising the world, and Malaysia must keep pace with this progress to build a flourishing digital nation. Over 1.5 years ago, we made a strong commitment to play a pivotal role to realise this ambition, leveraging our greater combined capabilities as a merged company to invest and drive digitalisation, innovation and sustainable growth for the nation. The AI Experience Centre is a realisation of the national benefit of the merger, where CelcomDigi’s scale and capabilities are able to attract and partner with global and regional digital tech giants to accelerate the development of cutting-edge digital solutions – positioning us as a strong ally to the nation’s digital aspirations.”
The CelcomDigi AiX was built on over 40 partnerships with industry leaders such as Huawei, AWS and DNB. A concept that will underpin the innovation and interactions that will take place within its walls. It will be open to visitors on a scheduled basis.
