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.
Google’s recent announcement of a US$2 billion investment in Malaysia signifies a major milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey. This strategic investment not only positions Malaysia as a regional hub for cloud computing but also empowers its industries and workforce to embrace the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI).
A Google Cloud Data Centre in Kuala Lumpur
The centrepiece of Google’s investment is the construction of its first data centre and Google Cloud region in Malaysia. Strategically located in Sime Darby Property’s Elmina Business Park in the Greater Kuala Lumpur region, this data centre will serve as the backbone for Google’s popular digital services like Search, Maps, and Workspace. These services are the lifeblood of countless individuals and organizations worldwide, including those in Malaysia.
(Source: Google) Artist impression of Google’s first data centre and Google Cloud region in Malaysia
The impact of Google’s investment extends far beyond powering existing services. The new cloud region will provide high-performance and low-latency cloud services to businesses of all sizes, from established enterprises to budding startups. This will be particularly beneficial for public sector organizations seeking to leverage the efficiency and scalability of cloud computing.
For businesses concerned about data security and residency, Google Cloud offers robust features that meet the highest compliance standards. This empowers organizations to retain complete control over their data storage, ensuring adherence to specific data residency requirements. Furthermore, Google’s existing Dedicated Cloud Interconnect locations in Cyberjaya and Kuala Lumpur will provide even greater connectivity and security by enabling direct connections between an organization’s on-premises network and Google Cloud’s global network.
With the addition of the Malaysian cloud region, Google joins the ranks of leading cloud providers with a presence in 40 regions and 121 zones worldwide. This strategic placement in Southeast Asia strengthens Google’s position to cater to the growing demand for cloud services in the region. Malaysia’s central location makes it an ideal hub for businesses across Southeast Asia to leverage the power of Google Cloud.
(Source: Google) Actual Site for Google’s first data center and Google Cloud region in Elmina Business Park Malaysia
Investments in Training and Upskilling
Recognizing the transformative potential of AI, Google is actively investing in programs to equip Malaysia’s workforce with the necessary skills. Two key initiatives are the Gemini Academy and the Experience AI program.
Gemini Academy: Empowering Educators with AI Tools
The Gemini Academy equips educators with the knowledge and tools to safely and effectively utilize generative AI tools like Gemini. This empowers teachers to boost productivity and explore innovative ways to enhance student learning experiences. Since its pilot phase in November 2023, the program has benefited over 600 educators in Malaysia. In collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Google aims to expand the program’s reach to 15,000 educators by the end of 2024.
Experience AI: Igniting Young Minds
Launched by Google DeepMind, the Raspberry Pi Foundation, and the Penang Science Cluster, the Experience AI program focuses on empowering educators with the skills and knowledge to deliver engaging AI lessons to students aged 11 to 14. Through interactive materials and tutorials, this program equips educators to confidently introduce students to the world of AI. The initial goal is to train 1,000 educators, ultimately reaching 10,000 students across Malaysia.
Jobs, Growth, and a Thriving Tech Ecosystem
Google’s investment is projected to create significant economic benefits for Malaysia. An evaluation by AlphaBeta (part of Access Partnership) commissioned by Google estimates the investment to contribute over US$3.2 billion to Malaysia’s GDP by 2030. This growth is further amplified by the creation of an estimated 26,500 jobs across various sectors. By fostering a vibrant technology ecosystem, Google’s investment aligns perfectly with Malaysia’s aspirations as outlined in the MADANI Economy Framework and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030).
(Source: Google) Actual Site for Google’s first data center and Google Cloud region in Elmina Business Park Malaysia
Google’s US$2 billion investment represents a significant commitment to Malaysia’s digital transformation journey. The construction of a data centre and cloud region, coupled with initiatives to promote AI literacy, positions Malaysia as a leader in the region’s digital future. This investment not only empowers businesses and individuals but also paves the way for a more innovative and technologically advanced Malaysia.
This article is contributed by Azhar Abdullah, Head of Enterprise at Amazon Web Services (AWS)
As Malaysia pushes towards becoming a regional leader in the digital economy under the Malaysia Madani vision of achieving a highly-skilled, prosperous, and sustainable economy, organizations must now take steps to adopt a digital-first mindset to innovate and transform their businesses.
The digital economy is one of the key economic pillars contributing to 23.2%[1] of Malaysia’s gross domestic product (GDP), which is set to increase to 25.5% by 2025. However, 77%[2] of small and medium enterprises, which contribute almost 40%[3] of Malaysia’s GDP, are still early in their digitalization journey. This represents a huge opportunity for Malaysian businesses to accelerate the pace of digital adoption for tech transformations across the board.
As new technologies emerge, businesses need to invest in both solutions and training to enhance efficiency and productivity in day-to-day work and position themselves for growth. Digital upskilling is a key component of Malaysia’s digital transformation, which includes ensuring employees are equipped with capabilities to deploy cloud-enabled solutions, individuals are empowered for future digital careers, and the digital inclusion of citizens is advanced.
Keeping Pace in an Evolving Landscape
To keep pace with industry disruptions and evolving customer needs, it is essential for business leaders to embrace cloud technology as a strategic priority. Doing so will allow them to benefit from the cost-efficiency, reliability, flexibility, scalability, and security of the cloud.
One such example is the well-loved homegrown curry powder and spice brand, Baba’s Products[4], which adopted AWS cloud to efficiently scale, optimize costs, and implement disaster recovery strategies. With AWS, Baba’s Products has achieved faster time-to-value, reducing the order-to-cash cycle by 40%, and supporting its expanding regional presence with products sold across nearly all retail grocery stores in Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei.
Malaysian businesses should move forward on their digitization efforts, to reduce the risk of falling behind as the country moves towards achieving its digital economy goals. Without integrating digital tools and strategies into operations, businesses may face several challenges such as inefficiencies in their productivity levels, resulting in slower delivery of customer products or services. Additionally, with data playing a critical role in decision-making, they might miss out on valuable insights, hindering their ability to make informed choices and strategic decisions.
As part of its strategy, Maxis, Malaysia’s leading converged solutions company and AWS Advanced Tier Partner, taps into resources from the global community AWS Partner Network[5] to drive innovation, modernization, and deliver enhanced personalized experiences for its end customers. Maxis leverages more than 400 AWS-accredited employees to date that provide solutions to local businesses to accelerate cloud adoption.
Building Malaysia’s digital workforce with the right talent
As technology continues to shape the world, education, skilling, and talent play a pivotal role in driving innovation, economic growth, as well as societal progress. In June 2023, Human Resource Minister V. Sivakumar highlighted that based on 2020 World Economic Forum predictions, 4.5 million Malaysians are likely to lose their jobs by 2030 if they do not improve their skills with the emergence of AI[6].
AWS has committed to training 29 million[7] people globally in cloud computing through free training programs by 2025 and has helped 13 million globally access cloud skills training to date. Since 2017, AWS has trained more than 1 million individuals across ASEAN and more than 50,000 individuals in Malaysia.
Training programs like AWS re/Start prepare the workforce for a digital economy, as well as transforming lives in Malaysia. One example is Malaysia’s own re/Start alumni, Ganesan Mahesan, who was faced with the challenge of finding a professional job when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. “During the pandemic, I struggled to find employment in my field. I came across the AWS re/Start program, and it was an excellent introduction to core cloud concepts. I was excited to learn new skills.” Through the program, Ganesan secured a job with the chemical company Evonik as an IT Support Engineer.
Investment in skilling is equally beneficial to both individuals in the workforce and employers. According to a Gallup study,[8] organizations that employ digitally advanced workers, digital technology, and cloud technology reap higher business growth and innovation. In a similar vein, Malaysian workers with advanced digital skills can earn salaries 106% higher, and 74% of respondents express higher job satisfaction.
To stay ahead of the evolving job landscape and skills demands, Bank Islam, Malaysia’s first listed Islamic financial services institution, launched a broad staff upskilling program to give more than 4,000 Bank Islam employees access to foundational cloud skills. This was achieved through a combination of on-demand digital training, live instructor-led training, and group interaction sessions, as part of a skills roadmap to establish the Bank Islam Digital Academy, a permanent learning centre that will drive and grow digital skills across the organization.
Long-term commitment to enable Malaysia’s Digital Era
It is inspiring to see the potential of how cloud technology can enable SMEs, enterprises, government agencies, and citizens. In the public sector, government agencies can tap into the Cloud Framework Agreement with the Malaysian Administrative Modernization and Management Planning Unit (MAMPU), which grants Malaysia’s government agencies and departments access to power IT modernizations and improve citizen services.
Earlier in March, AWS announced its plans to launch an AWS infrastructure Region in Malaysia, which will give government, developers, businesses of all sizes, and non-profit organizations across the country the access to greater choices – from compute and storage, to artificial intelligence and machine learning, and more, to foster innovation and growth. As part of its commitment to the region, AWS is planning to invest $6 billion (approx. MYR 25.5 billion) in Malaysia by 2037. We look forward to seeing how this investment will spur job creation, cultivate skills training, and provide growth opportunities to the communities surrounding our data centres, helping Malaysia reach its potential as a digital leader in the region.
Malaysia is finally looking to get its 5G act together after over 2 years in limbo. While the country started its 5G conversation early in 2019, political instability, the pandemic and multiple changes in the plans for 5G have seen the country without widespread 5G connectivity until now.
In 2021, Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) was established to be the single “special-purpose” vehicle for the country’s rollout of 5G under the purview of the Ministry of Finance (MoF) and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). Since then, DNB has been in a tumultuous state with telcos refusing terms and even members of the public and experts criticising DNB’s presence.
However, in late 2021, DNB did an initial launch of 5G with only two telcos – TM and YTL Communications (YES) onboard. Since then, little has changed with DNB continuing to set up 5G infrastructure while it struggled to reach a consensus even with the MoF’s invitation to telco to take up a stake in the vehicle. In early October 2022, an agreement was finally reached with two telcos – U Mobile and Maxis – abstaining from claiming a stake in DNB. DNB is now owned by MoF (35%), YTL Communications (20%), TM (20%), Celcom Axiata (12.5%) and Digi Telecommunications (12.5%). Celcom Axiata and Digi are in the midst of a merger following the agreement between parent companies Axiata and Telenor to merge operations. In light of this merger, the resulting company’s stake was limited to 25%. As of 31 October 2022, five of the six telcos in Malaysia have finally signed an access agreement with DNB for access to the 5G network.
With all the drama done with, Malaysia is finally getting widespread coverage starting with key areas in the country’s central region of Klang Valley. Aside from YES – which has already rolled out its 5G offerings – telcos are beginning to provide access to users starting on 1st November 2022. Digi and Maxis have yet to announce any offerings for 5G. We’ve summarised the usage and plans available in the table below for easy reference.
Telco
5G Rollout
Details
YTL Communications (YES)
Already available
5G is available on: 1. Infinte+ Postpaid plans 2. FT5G Unlimited Prepaid 3. Wireless Fibre 5G plans
TM
31 October 2022
TM Unifi Mobile users will be able to access the 5G network for free until 31 December 2022. After which it seems like they will need to register for the new Uni5G plans to access the 5G network. Prices for subscriptions start at MYR1.
Celcom Axiata
1 November 2022
5G access will be available to all Celcom subscribers according to their plans for free until December 2022. Plans included: 1. Celcom MEGA Lightning (80, 98, 128, ,158 and 188) 2. Celcom Xpax Postpaid (40 and 60) 3. Celcom Xpax Prepaid (35 and 45)
U Mobile
3 November 2022
U Mobile subscribers of their recently launched 5G Ready U Postpaid plans will be able to use the 5G network with compatible devices. Prepaid users on U25 and U35 plans will need to redeem a “Speed Booster” for free which entitles them to 1 hour of 5G connectivity a day with up to 30 hours a month.
Digi
TBA
TBA
Maxis
TBA
TBA
It’s worth noting that Maxis, one of the nation’s largest telcos, has yet to ratify the access agreement. The company has cited that its board is still accessing the requirements for the 5G Access Agreement. In its statement to the press, Maxis states, “Maxis is committed to playing an active role in bringing 5G to the nation in line with the Government’s digital ambitions, and to utilising Digital Nasional Berhad’s (DNB) network for 5G services. The Company looks forward to bringing the best of 5G services and solutions to its customers and is confident of launching 5G in the near future”. The company has also recently appointed a new CEO, Goh Seow Eng, who has served in Advanced Info Service (AIS) in Thailand. Goh will be taking the reigns from Gökhan Öğüt, who has been the CEO of Maxis for nearly 4 years.
So, it looks like Maxis and Digi customers can expect an announcement in the near future possibly with revamped plans.
Google Cloud is stepping up its services for Malaysia with plans to roll out a new region in the country. The new region joins Thailand and New Zealand as Google Cloud continues its expansion throughout the Asia Pacific Region. With the addition of the three new regions, Google Cloud expands its total regions to 14 within the Asia Pacific region and 37 globally.
The rollout of the Malaysia region will bolster the government’s plans to accelerate the country’s digital economy to contribute 25.5% of the national GDP by 2025. According to reserach by AlphaBeta that was commissioned by Google, the country is poised to reap the benefits of an MYR257.2 billion (USD 61.3 billion) annual economic value by 2030 if digital transformation is properly leveraged.
The rollout of these regions will bring world class connectivity and compute to the quickly expanding number of ccompanies depending on the cloud. In addition to access to high performance compute and access to Google’s Tensor capabilities, better latency will help accelerate workflows. Google’s new Cloud Region will also be complemented by the existing Dedicated Cloud Interconnect locations. In Malaysia, these are located in Cyberjaya and Kuala Lumpur. Organisation on Google Cloud will be able to leverage interconnectivity and access on-premises and through direct connections via Google Cloud.
Source: Gooogle Cloud
Being one of the foremost in the industry, data security, data soverignty and privacy is paramount when it comes to rolling out new regions for Google Cloud. When asked about data privacy and sovereignty when it comes to rolling out a new Region in Malaysia, Google Cloud Managing Director for Southeast Asia, Ruma Balasubramaniam, had this to say, “We will work with local customers to ensure that each local cloud region, including the one that’s coming soon to Malaysia, fits their specific needs. Our aim is to provide solutions that help customers meet their local requirements for data security, privacy, and sovereignty – without compromising on considerations like functionality, cost, and the developer experience.The Malaysia cloud region will ultimately give local organizations more options regarding where they would like to run their workloads and store their data, whether this is in-country in the Malaysia cloud region or in another cloud region that is part of our global network. Ultimately, it is solely up to the Google Cloud customer to choose where they would like to run their workloads and store their data.“
In addition, she emphasized Google’s commitments to data security and privacy even internally. Google Cloud has ensured that all data on their service is securely encrypted and that no Google employee will be able to acceess it. They also have strict guidelines and tools for customers to ensure data security including preventing Google decryption access. This includes government requested access which require valid legal processes. Government requests for data is also reported in their transparency report.
Google Cloud hasn’t announced any timelines just yet when it comes to the rollout and availability. The new regions will join Google Cloud’s 11 existing regions across Asia Pacific and Japan including ones in Jakarta and Singapore. In total, Google Cloud currently has 34 regions and 103 zones worldwide. The company has been working public sector agencies, large corporations and even small and medium entrerprises across the world. In Malaysia alone, Google Cloud is working with Capital A (Airasia Aviation and airasia Super App), Hong Leong Bank, JB Cocoa, KPJ Healthcare, Malaysia Airlines, Mass Rapid Transit Corporation, Maxis and Media Prima.
It is August, for Malaysia that means it is the month leading to the National Day and Malaysia Day. It means we get two extra holidays for the month of August and September. But it is also a celebration of what of Malaysia and all that is Malaysian.
Digi, one of the biggest homegrown telcos celebrates the month of August and September the only way it knows how; giving more good deals. In anticipation of National Day and Malaysia Day, Digi launches the Juara Internet Malaysiaku promotion. Of course, since it is also a promotion for Malaysia Day, it lasts through August and September 2022.
Starting from today new and existing Digi customers are entitled to free devices when they sign up for a new internet plan. If you sign up for a new Digi Postpaid Family Unlimited plan, you get a new Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite for free. With the Pakej PowerJimat postpaid plans, you are entitled to a number of free Samsung, Redmi, vivo, and OPPO smartphones.
If you are thinking of getting a new home internet plan from Digi, there is no better time than now to get it. New customers to the Digi Fibre 190 plan and above are entitled to rebates totalling up to MYR 240. Current Digi customers are entitled to up to MYR 60 a month in savings when they pair their postpaid plans to select Digi Fibre plans.
Postpaid customers are entitled to enjoy 10GB more data for 12 months if you switch or upgrade to Digi Postpaid 40, 60, and 90 plans. If you go for the 120 or 150 plans, you get 50% more quota than what is offered on the brochure. Customers who are on Digi Postpaid 90 programs and above also get to enjoy up to MYR 15 of additional rebate every month for the next 12 months. You are also entitled to a Gadget SIM free for two months so that you can share your internet plans with your other devices via a second line for the promotion period. A Gadget SIM usually sets you back MYR 10 a month. Postpaid customers are also entitled to an MYR 200 GadgetFreedom Plus voucher within the MyDigi app. The voucher can be used to purchase anything from Digi’s official online store on Shopee Mall.
Of course, prepaid customers are not fogotten. New customers to the Prepaid NEXT 35, NEXT 45, Raja Kombo 35, and Raja Kombo 45 plans gets 65GB of additional high-speed video quota for 30 days so that they can enjoy contents from Netflix, Viu, Astro Go, and YouTube without worrying about running out of data. Loyalty pays here, current prepaid customers get an additional 130GB of high-speed streaming quota with any 30-day Internet plan purchase via MyDigi Box of Surprise. Digi’s Unlimited Video Pass is also now extended to all Digi Prepaid customers. From MYR 5 onward you get to enjoy unlimited streaming from Netflix, Astro GO, Viu, Dailymotion, or Unifi PlayTV for three days.
The Juara Internet Malaysiaku promotion starts today onward (1st of August 2022) until the 30th September 2022. You can find out or sign up for these attractive offers by visiting any Digi Store, Digi Store Expess, Digi authorised dealer, or their website.
Since early March, the high rate of COVID-19 cases in Malaysia has resulted in the implementation of the Movement Control Order (MCO) nationwide. Soon after the official announcement, panicked purchasing increased drastically resulting in most daily necessities being sold out in most places.
With most Malaysians aware of the prolonged duration of the MCO, consumers are turning to online market places to obtain necessities and equipment to enable them to work-from-home (WFH). Thus, we investigated the search trends of more than 900,000 iPrice Malaysia visitors. The data has shed light on a number of interesting and unexpected findings.
The research was conducted by analyzing the online search behavior of close to 1 million visitors on iPrice Malaysia between 18 March 2020, when the MCO was first enforced, and 17 April 2020. All percentage increases displayed in this research were obtained by comparing the search impressions data with consumers’ online search behavior prior to the implementation of the MCO.
1. Satisfaction is important, but safety always comes first
In the medical supply category, it was unsurprising to see a 648% increase in search interest for face masks such as surgical masks & N95 masks. However, it seems like Malaysians are getting adventurous as there was also a rise in interest for sex related products such as sensual toys, vibrators, fertility test kits & condoms.
From their search behaviours, we saw the following percentage increase in interest:
347% increase in searches for sensual toys & vibrators
79% increase in searches for fertility test kits
61% increase in searches for condoms
While it seems like Malaysian could be indulging in self love and even more adventurous exploits, this also shows that Malaysians are being more cognizant of family planning especially with the increase in searches for fertility test kits.
2. Malaysians are running out of patience with their overgrown hair
The MCO began in the mid of March & has been ongoing for more than 6 weeks. This also means that most Malaysians probably have overgrown hair and are looking for ways to take care of it.
iPrice data reveals major increase in searches for trimming clippers. In fact, the increase was an averaged 17,652%! This trend can also be seen throughout various social media platforms, where people has been sharing the results of their DIY haircut attempts.
3. The MCO is potentially breading more MasterChefs
Malaysians are probably tired with packaged and delivered foods. As a result, they are turning to more home cooked food. Data reveals high interest in appliances such as bread makers, mixers, air fryers and ovens suggesting that people are showing interest in experimenting with various recipes.
This is supported by the increase in searches related to appliances including bread makers (7,587%), stand mixers (3,048%), ovens (1,058%) and air fryers (2,029%).
4. Malaysians Prefer the Nintendo Switch during the pandemic
The inability to go outdoors may have led to excessive boredom. As such, people are looking for ways to stay entertained at home. This could be driving the an increased interest in gaming. Data shows high search interest for gaming items such as the Nintendo switch, Animal Crossing game & board games such as Monopoly.
Nintendo’s latest game, Animal Crossing , saw a 17,427% increase in interest, while the Nintendo Switch saw an average increase of 1,064%. Board games, on the other hand, saw a 4,336% surge in interest among Malaysians.
5. Tablets preferred over laptops?
When it comes to preparing for WFH, Malaysians are probably looking to purchase tech that would allow them to be more productive; one would think that this would mean that they would be looking for laptops or PCs. However, the data indicates otherwise. In fact, it shows that Malaysian are turning more to tablets. On average, searches for tablets saw an increase of 1,125%, while laptops recorded a 299% increase.
This would suggest Malaysians are probably getting tablets for work or entertainment activities.
6. Staying fit indoors
Like many others on the internet, it seems that Malaysians are also worrying about gaining weight from being cooped up at home for too long. It’s all over social media! More people are showing an interest in working out at home. This is reflected in the data, there was a surge in searches for exercise equipment such as skipping ropes (4,528%) and yoga mats (2,016%).
Research methodology
Data featured in this study were obtained by aggregating thousands of product pages of more than 150 online merchants through https://iprice.my/. Data on the increase in searches were analyzed by comparing the impressions data recorded from March 18 – April 17, 2020 as compared to February 16, 2019 – March 17, 2020.
This whole COVID-19 situation has been quite trying for plenty of people. For Malaysia, the country is in its third phase of a state sanctioned quarantine, or Movement Control Order (MCO) in their words. The MCO means that there are some imposed restrictions to how you can move about in the region. No one can come into or out of Malaysia at this time too. In other words, we are under a limited lock down.
This also means that most organisations in Malaysia are on a work-from-home policy, including us. Working from home is not a new concept though. Funnily enough, it is not tech-based firms that has gone big with work-from-home concepts. Still, this is the time when everyone just must start adopting the work-from-home culture. Not like they have a choice anyway in Malaysia.
Facebook has been one organisation at the forefront of business transformations in the region. They have also transformed how businesses work and sell their products in the modern world. They are more than just a Social Media app you have on your smartphones. Facebook is more than an app just to keep in touch with your friends.
It has become a live news channel, where you can view live updates on the most current news. You can set up watch parties (limited to Facebook Watch and videos) to a live event. It has become a live event space, if you might for the public. With Messenger and WhatsApp, it is a communication powerhouse; an all-in-one tool for your daily communication needs.
If you need to, Facebook can be your marketplace, or the place where you shop with marketplace. With Facebook Watch, it is your source of entertainment. It can even be your calendar if you really need it to be. It is truly a one-stop, go-to, solve-it-all platform where you can find anything and everything.
That is also why when we were given the chance to sit down with Nicole Tan of Facebook Malaysia, we took the offer up.
Nicole Tan is not just a random person in Facebook Malaysia. She is the Facebook Malaysia’s Country Director. When you say top brass, she is it for Facebook Malaysia. The buck stops with her. Of course, no one is better qualified to talk about Facebook’s presence and efforts in Malaysia than her.
Source: Facebook
We started the interview with a burning question of ‘how?’ Everyone is in this trying period that is the MCO and plenty are forced to bring work home. In that case, everyone has to adapt to a completely new working environment and culture. Every other person is of course looking toward the big tech names for guidance and inspiration.
Facebook has always had a very flexible approach toward this issue of course. Being a tech firm there are already measures in place for a work-from-home situation. In fact, Facebook Malaysia has adopted the work-from-home policy even before Malaysia’s MCO is implemented. According to Nicole Tan, the firm has adopted to the situation very quickly. Naturally, there has been a lot more web-conferencing that is needed for daily operations. For Nicole then, it is almost just like any other day in the office; just with more video conferencing than ever.
There is one big concern for consumers who are on Facebook though. The platform has become one of the biggest news channels in the world. In Malaysia at least, plenty rely on Facebook for the latest updates in the region. In these trying times, more so rely on Facebook and its services for information. With fears of cyber attacks and scams related to COVID-19 as well, fake news is another big concern. In that, Facebook has been working very closely with their partners which include health institutes and certain government departments to verify news sources. They are not just doing it on Facebook as a platform though. They are also doing it on Whatsapp, Messenger and even Instagram.
Source: Facebook
All this accumulates to Facebook’s very own COVID-19 specific information center. The section is also an accumulation for your benefit. Facebook, through the center is working to bring forward tips and resources from experts and other certified sources to keep you healthy and informed at this time. This is not something new for Facebook. At this time though, to verify all the news, they have spent quite a significant amount of money to work with fact-check networks just so that you get the correct information.
That is not all they have been doing in the fight for COVID-19 though. Being one of the largest tech firms in the world, they could contribute plenty to the efforts around the world. They join other multinationals in donating relief funds and even development of vaccines. In total, they probably has put forth about US$ 70 million in the efforts of not just fighting the disease, but also fighting the side-effects of the global pandemic.
In that also, Facebook is using their platform to help Small Medium Enterprises (SME) even here in Malaysia. Globally Facebook will be offering grants for SMEs or even guide businesses to survive this period of MCO. If you need more information on that, do visit their website.
Source: Facebook
Nicole also added that they are also working with certain Non-Government Organisations (NGO) and Non-Profit Organisations; one of them is Yellow House KL. Of course, there are more that they are doing in the global fight of COVID-19. You can keep yourselves updated on their efforts on their newsroom.
Nicole also gave us a lot of good insights on how Facebook has adapted to the global pandemic situation. For that you should refer to the interview video. Facebook is a free Social Media platform that is available for free on Google’s Play Store for Android and Apple’s Play Store for the iOS.
Last week, we saw the HUAWEI P40 series being globally launched. The HUAWEI P40 and the P40 Pro is supposed to come to the market first. The HUAWEI P40 Pro Plus is probably the one you want to go for, but that is going to set you back a lot of money and you have to wait until mid-year 2020. It is also the one that comes with five cameras instead of the measly three of the HUAWEI P40 and the four of the HUAWEI P40 Pro.
Source: HUAWEI
In that case, you might have expected the HUAWEI P40 series to arrive in Malaysia a little later, in waiting for the HUAWEI P40 Pro+. That is not the case though. Malaysia is quite a lucky market. Well, if I am quoting them right, Malaysia is one of their key markets in South East Asia. Flattering, no?
That also means that we are one of the first markets also to get HUAWEI’s latest and greatest. That happens today with the HUAWEI P40 series, starting with the HUAWEI P40 and the HUAWEI P40 Pro flagship devices. The HUAWEI P40 Pro+, as was announced in the global launch, will be available at a later date.
Source: HUAWEI
Still, the HUAWEI P40 and the HUAWEI P40 Pro are still the flagship device that you have been waiting for since the HUAWEI P30. We found the HUAWEI P30 to be quite brilliant, if we are being honest and we do not expect the HUAWEI P40 devices to be anything less than that. Still we have covered all the necessary spec talk in the global launch, so we are going to spare you the lecture.
Briefly though, the flagship series is powered by none other than HUAWEI’s own HiSilicon Kirin 990 5G capable System on a Chip (SoC) with dedicated dual Neural Processing Units (NPU) for maximum delivery. All of them will come with 8GB of RAM. That is smaller than some of the outgoing flagships now. Then again, who needs more than 8GB? Both flagships will come with a main 50-Megapixel camera.
Source: HUAWEI
The only few things that differentiate one from the other is the design cue, their screen sizes, the number of cameras packed at the back, and their price tags. The HUAWEI P40 comes with a regular 6.1-inch display with Full HD display while the Pro comes with a bigger 6.58-inch overflow display with 90Hz and 2,640 by 1,200 pixels for resolution. The HUAWEI P40 comes with three cameras at the back while the HUAWEI P40 Pro comes with four cameras at the back.
The HUAWEI P40 and P40 Pro will be available for pre-order from the 3rd April 2020 (10.08 a.m.) onward via HUAWEI’s online sales portal, various retail partners, or HUAWEI’s Lazada Flagship store and your devices will come to you on the 11th of April onward. You have to keep in mind that while the HUAWEI P40 and P40 Pro are EMUI 10 devices based on Android 10, they do not come with Google’s Play Store. The HUAWEI P40 flagship series will come in four colours for now – Black, Blush Gold, Deep Sea Blue, and Silver Frost. I must say that I really like the Silver Frost.
Alongside the HUAWEI P40 series, the HUAWEI MatePad Pro has also arrived in Malaysia. The HUAWEI MatePad variant that is coming to Malaysia though is the WiFi edition one, not the 5G ready one. It is available in two colours – Midnight Grey and Pearl White. It will also be available for pre-order at the same time the HUAWEI P40 series is available for pre-order on the 3rd April 2020 for MYR 2,399. If you do, you get a keyboard case, the M-Pen, and 3-month free subscription for HUAWEI Video worth MRY 1,000.
There is also the HUAWEI Watch GT 2e that is designed for the active lifestyle. The HUAWEI Watch GT 2e can last you two weeks on a single charge and will come in two colours – Mint Green and Graphite Black. It will also be available for pre-order at the same time for MYR 599. If you do, you get a free strap that is worth MYR 68.
How much? The HUAWEI P40 will set you back MYR 2,799 and the HUAWEI P40 Pro will set you back MYR 3,899. If you pre-order your device you get to enjoy free gifts worth up to MRY 1,300. You get a free HUAWEI FreeBuds 3, 50GB of cloud storage, 1-year extended warranty, 1-month of screen protection, 3-months free subscription to HUAWEI Video, wireless charging case for the P40, and a wireless car charger if you get the HUAWEI P40 Pro. For more information on the HUAWEI P40 series, you can head to their website.
If you go out into the smartphone market right now, you would be spoiled for choice. You have not even set a budget. So let us say that you have a budget of MYR 1,000 for a smartphone. That part of the market, while not as filled as the mid-range market from MYR 1,000 – MYR 3,000 market range, is still quite a crowd.
You get plenty of offerings from most of the Chinese brands.
They are not some brands you never heard of too. They are reputable brands that
have been in the market for some time now, with proven products and strategy. You
have brand names like OPPO, who have started making great flagships like their
OPPO Find X2 series. You have Xiaomi who had innovated with their Mi Mix Alpha
wraparound display. You have HONOR and HUAWEI who made headlines with their own
flagships too.
The point is, they make smartphones that sells at below MYR
1,000 as well; and they are not half bad products at that price. You still get
the latest Android, the latest hardware to work with, not the most high-end of
stuff; but you get the picture. It is a tough market to be in.
Source: Realme
That is where the Realme brand shines though. They make
budget friendly devices at great prices. Their latest offering just resonates
that quality of theirs. The Realme 6 that was just launched in Malaysia a few
days ago.
The Reame 6 is not some kind of revolutionary product that
completely changes Realme’s range of smartphones. It is to replace the Realme 5,
yes; but it is more like an evolution that a revolution.
The display, for example is not that big of a step up in terms
of size. At 6.5-inch, it is still the same size with the Realme 5. The notch
that was on the Realme 5 is now a punch-hole on the top-left corner of the
display. The resolution is also bumped up to Full HD+ instead of HD+. You also
get 90Hz refresh rate with the display, and 12Hz sampling rate. Then again,
90Hz is becoming a norm these days.
Source: Realme
The upgrades do not just end there though. It is throughout
the whole device. The device is packing improved power too thanks to the MediaTek
MT6785 Helio G90T Octa-core system on a chip (SoC). They tout it as a gaming
class processor, like almost everything else in the market. It does work well
on games like PUBG Mobile and Mobile Legends though, as demonstrated in a
livestream.
That Octa-core processor unit is helped by 4GB of RAM, which
may not seem like a lot; but 4GB is more than enough most of the time on a
smartphone. You are not getting shorthanded in your storage size though; 128GB
in storage, in fact. You even get a MicroSD slot if you need to expand your
storage size.
Source: Realme
Out the back is still a quad-camera layout; no one is crazy
enough to make an official appearance of a five-camera layout just yet. Instead
of a 12-Megapixel shooter though, you get a bumped up 64-Megapixel main
shooter. That is supported by an 8-Megapixel ultra-wide lens, a 2-Megapixel
Macro lens, and a 2-Megapixel Black and White lens which also acts as a depth
sensor. Out the front is a 16-Megapixel shooter, that is also a bump up from
13-Megapixel of the Realme 5. Of course, with the main shooter you can shoot
videos t up to 4K resolution.
All this power is no use if you cannot bring it out of the house or leave your charger behind. It comes with a 30W fast charging capability on its 4,300 mAh battery. It is charged via a USB Type-C cable too, so there is that. On another plus side, it still has a 3.5mm jack so your old headphones are not obsolete.
Source: Realme
Source: Realme
Source: Realme
Source: Realme
Source: Realme
The Realme 6 will be available 27th March 2020 onward on Realme’s online retail partners for MYR 999. The device will be available in two colours options – Comet White, and Comet Blue. In conjunction with Lazada’s birthday party sale, Realme will bring the price down on the 27th March 2020 to MYR 799, exclusively on Lazada Malaysia from 12.00 a.m. to 2.00 a.m. Of course, more information can be found on their website, or you can head to Lazada Malaysia to check it out.
