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  • Malaysia Boosts Digital Infrastructure with New SALAM Submarine Cable Network

    Malaysia Boosts Digital Infrastructure with New SALAM Submarine Cable Network

    Malaysia is making strides in its efforts to enhance digital connectivity within the country. The nation’s communications regulatory body is encouraging licensed telecommunications entities to consider participating in the construction of a new domestic underwater cable network.

    The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has prompted qualified license holders to indicate their interest in this groundbreaking project on July 16. They were also asked to present an initial Universal Service Plan for evaluation. The regulator requested draft proposals, however, they did not provide a final date for submissions.

    The planned network, named SALAM (Sambungan Kabel Dasar Laut MADANI), is projected to extend over 5,582 kilometers. It will consist of four submarine cable segments connecting ten landing stations scattered throughout the nation. SALAM’s primary objective is to bolster Malaysia’s internal communications infrastructure by creating a new underwater backbone that connects Peninsular Malaysia with Sabah and Sarawak.

    According to Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, the new network is expected to eventually replace the ageing SCREAM cable system. This system has been a significant domestic link for over a decade.

    With the introduction of SALAM, the MCMC plans to further augment domestic transmission capacity. It also aims to support multiple services and industries such as nationwide 5G expansion, broadband services, cloud computing, artificial intelligence applications, data centers, and other digital industries. Funded under Malaysia’s USP framework, SALAM will assist in financing communications projects in underserved regions, with contributions sourced from qualifying telecommunications license holders.

    Oscar Ling, a Sibu Member of Parliament, applauded the project, stating that it would enhance connectivity between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak. He also noted that it would help deliver more reliable internet services to communities in Sibu and across Sarawak.

    The progression of the project is contingent on the expressions of interest and draft Universal Service Plans submitted by eligible telecommunications companies. The MCMC has not yet announced when these submissions will be made public.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the aim of the SALAM network?
    The SALAM network aims to bolster Malaysia’s domestic communications infrastructure by creating a new underwater backbone that connects Peninsular Malaysia with Sabah and Sarawak.

    What services and industries will SALAM support?
    SALAM plans to support multiple services and industries such as nationwide 5G expansion, broadband services, cloud computing, artificial intelligence applications, data centers, and other digital industries.

    Who is funding the SALAM project?
    The SALAM project will be funded under Malaysia’s USP framework, which finances communication projects in underserved regions with contributions from qualifying telecommunications license holders.

  • Indonesian Telecom Boom: Mobile Data Revenue Fuels Market Surge Amid Decline in Voice Services

    Indonesian Telecom Boom: Mobile Data Revenue Fuels Market Surge Amid Decline in Voice Services

    The mobile services sector in Indonesia is anticipated to observe a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 3.4%, thus escalating from USD 10.2 billion in 2025 to USD 12.1 billion by 2030. This expansion is principally fueled by the escalating proceeds from mobile data services, offsetting the continuous decrease in mobile voice and messaging revenues.

    Shift in Mobile Services Revenue

    The forecast for mobile services in Indonesia suggests that the revenue from mobile voice services is slated to reduce during the predicted period. This reduction is ascribed to a gradual decrease in mobile voice ARPU as consumers increasingly opt for OTT communication platforms, whereas service providers are incorporating free voice minutes in their offerings. In contrast, mobile data service revenue is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is stimulated by the increasing number of mobile internet subscriptions and the growing adoption of high-ARPU 5G services. The demand for data services is further boosted by cross-border travelers, business users, and high data consumption in urban areas, signifying a market shift towards data-centered monetization.

    The average monthly data usage over mobile networks is anticipated to escalate from 20 GB in 2025 to 30.3 GB in 2030. This rise can be attributed to the surge in consumption of online video and social media content on mobile networks, spurred by the expansion of 5G networks and enticing data-focused plans provided by mobile network operators.

    The Rise of 5G and Role of Telkomsel

    Even though 4G is expected to maintain its stronghold in mobile technology subscriptions in 2025, its share of total subscriptions is forecasted to reduce as users transition to faster, more reliable 5G services. There will be a considerable increase in the number of 5G subscriptions in Indonesia, credited to the wider availability of reasonably priced 5G-enabled smartphones and an increasing variety of premium data plans for high-bandwidth applications. The Indonesian government has set an aim to expand 5G network coverage to over 30% by the end of 2030.

    In 2025, Telkomsel is set to dominate the Indonesian mobile services market in terms of subscriptions and is predicted to uphold this supremacy throughout the forecast period. This is attributed to its comprehensive 4G coverage and aggressive expansion of its 5G infrastructure, with over 97% population coverage with 4G by March 2026 and more than 2,500 5G base stations across 56 cities by mid-2025.

    The future of Indonesia’s consumer mobile market will revolve around increased mobile data consumption, accelerated 5G migration, and rising demand for high-speed digital experiences. As users gravitate towards video streaming, social media, and data-intensive applications, operators will concentrate on expanding 4G/5G coverage and introducing segmented data plans to drive adoption and monetization.

    Questions & Answers

    What is driving the growth of the mobile services market in Indonesia?
    The growth is primarily being driven by escalating revenue from mobile data services, which offsets the ongoing decline in mobile voice and messaging revenues.

    What is the projected average monthly data usage over mobile networks by 2030?
    The average monthly data usage over mobile networks is anticipated to escalate from 20 GB in 2025 to 30.3 GB in 2030.

    Who is expected to lead the Indonesian mobile services market in 2025?
    Telkomsel is expected to dominate the Indonesian mobile services market in terms of subscriptions in 2025. It will likely maintain this position throughout the forecast period due to its comprehensive 4G coverage and aggressive expansion of 5G infrastructure.

  • Nokia Hitches a Ride on the AI Supercycle: Q2 Financial Triumph Fueled by Soaring Cloud Demand

    Nokia Hitches a Ride on the AI Supercycle: Q2 Financial Triumph Fueled by Soaring Cloud Demand

    Nokia, a leading global technology and communications company, has reported a marked improvement in its financial results for the second quarter of 2026. This financial uplift has been driven by robust demand for AI-related networking infrastructure and continued momentum across its primary network businesses.

    Stronger Financial Results and Network Performance

    Nokia’s Q2 earnings revealed net sales of EUR 4.8 billion, demonstrating a growth of 9% YoY on a constant currency basis, and a rise of 8% on a reported basis. The period’s comparable profit experienced a significant surge of 64% YoY to EUR 414 million, reflecting improved operational performance and a more favorable business landscape.

    The Network Infrastructure segment proved to be the company’s strongest-performing area, with net sales increasing by 12% YoY on a constant currency basis. The growth stems from a 20% hike in Optical Networks and a 16% rise in IP Networks. Sales to AI and cloud clients more than doubled, showing an impressive rise of 105% compared to the same period last year.

    The Mobile Infrastructure segment also turned in a solid performance. Net sales rose by 7% YoY, while maintaining a stable profit contribution, which was supported by an improved product mix.

    In the meantime, Nokia’s Portfolio Businesses recorded a 6% YoY growth on a constant currency basis. The company reclassified its Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) and Enterprise Campus Edge businesses as discontinued operations.

    Profitability and Restructuring Efforts

    Profitability also saw an improvement during the quarter. The comparable gross margin grew by 70 basis points to 46%, and the reported gross margin increased by 60 basis points to 44.6%. The comparable operating margin improved by 70 basis points YoY to 9%, indicating a stronger underlying performance. However, the reported operating margin declined to negative 1.0%, down 430 basis points from a year earlier, primarily due to an accelerated pace of restructuring activities.

    In line with Nokia’s objective of increasing agility and resource allocation toward growth opportunities, the company has accelerated certain restructuring actions. This means that Nokia now expects related charges of EUR 800 million in 2026.

    Questions & Answers

    What was Nokia’s net sales for the second quarter of 2026?
    Nokia’s net sales for the second quarter of 2026 were reported to be EUR 4.8 billion.

    What led to the increase in sales in the Network Infrastructure segment?
    The increase in sales was driven by a 20% increase in Optical Networks and a 16% rise in IP Networks. Sales to AI and cloud customers doubled, climbing 105% compared to the same period last year.

    What restructuring efforts is Nokia undertaking?
    Nokia has accelerated certain restructuring actions to increase agility and allocate more resources toward growth opportunities. The company expects related charges of EUR 800 million in 2026.

  • SK Telecoms New Venture SK Hyper Powers South Koreas AI Infrastructure Expansion

    SK Telecoms New Venture SK Hyper Powers South Koreas AI Infrastructure Expansion

    SK Telecom, a prominent South Korean telecommunications company, has recently announced the formation of a new subsidiary, SK Hyper. This initiative aims to advance the company’s artificial intelligence data center (AIDC) division, and expedite South Korea’s AI infrastructure objectives. The communications company has earmarked an investment of up to KRW 750 billion for SK Hyper, extending until 2030.

    Roles and Responsibilities of SK Hyper

    The newly established subsidiary will be tasked with leading the evolution of hyperscale AI data centers. This includes a wide range of responsibilities such as securing locations, establishment and management of substations, customer acquisition, and the commercialization of AIDC projects. SK Telecom will maintain complete ownership of SK Hyper, and is committed to providing capital contributions in phases, as and when required, within the preapproved investment budget.

    The inception of SK Hyper follows the creation of SK Telecom’s AIDC Integrated Development Division. This division brings together the operator’s comprehensive AI capabilities to bolster the deployment of large-scale AI infrastructure.

    In line with its objectives, SK Hyper aims to foster the development of 15 GW of AI data center capacity. The first phase involves achieving a target of 5 GW of capacity by 2029, with an expansion plan to reach 15 GW by 2035. The development will commence with a gigawatt-scale AI data center cluster in Ulsan, subsequently extending to additional facilities in the Chungcheong and Honam regions.

    Leadership and Future Plans

    SK Telecom has appointed Chung Suk-geun as the first CEO of SK Hyper. In addition to this role, Chung also holds the position of Head of the operator’s AI Company-in-Company (AI CIC) and leads the AIDC Integrated Development Division. He is responsible for coordinating SK Group’s AI data center initiatives.

    According to Chung Suk-geun, the primary role of SK Hyper is to materialize SK Group’s vision of becoming Asia’s AI Infrastructure Hub. By implementing a systematic and swift execution plan, SK Hyper will secure essential infrastructure and customers, thereby contributing to Korea’s progression in the AI sphere.

    Reinforcing its broader AI strategy, SK Telecom will continue expanding its partnerships and investments in cutting-edge technologies. Earlier this year, the company entered into an agreement with Ericsson to work on AI-powered radio access networks, autonomous and open network technologies, cybersecurity, and 6G research, including strategies related to spectrum, energy efficiency, integrated sensing and communication, and advanced MIMO technologies.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the main objective of SK Hyper?
    The main objective of SK Hyper is to lead the development of hyperscale AI data centers and support the expansion of South Korea’s AI infrastructure.

    Who has been appointed as the CEO of SK Hyper?
    Chung Suk-geun has been appointed as the inaugural CEO of SK Hyper.

    What future plans does SK Telecom have regarding AI?
    SK Telecom plans to consistently enhance its AI strategy by expanding partnerships, investing in next-generation technologies, and continuing its collaboration with Ericsson on various technological fronts.

  • Telecom CapEx Stabilization: A New Era of Smarter, Not Bigger Networks

    Telecom CapEx Stabilization: A New Era of Smarter, Not Bigger Networks

    The telecommunications industry is entering a new era. Mobile data traffic is surging, artificial intelligence (AI) implementation is speeding up, and government digital transformation investments are heavy. However, the capital expenditure of telecom companies, known as CapEx, doesn’t seem to be aligning with these trends. Instead of continuously increasing, spending has begun to stabilize as companies shift their focus from network expansion to extracting more value from their existing infrastructure.

    According to industry analysts, the worldwide CapEx of telecom operators is projected to remain relatively unchanged throughout the second half of the decade. While this could be mistaken as a sign of reduced innovation, it instead indicates a strategic shift. Companies are now investing more in areas such as fiber, cloud-native architectures, AI, automation, and software-defined infrastructures. These investments promise better long-term returns and improved operational efficiency. Today, the industry is less about building larger networks and more about building smarter ones.

    Moving Beyond the 5G Buildout

    The period leading up to the stabilization of CapEx saw one of the highest infrastructure investment cycles in telecommunication history. Commercial 5G deployments that began in 2019 called for significant investments in areas such as spectrum licenses, Massive MIMO radios, cloud-native core networks, fiber backhaul, and urban networks. Today, this capital-intensive rollout has largely concluded in many developed markets.

    However, the demand for network services continues to rise. Mobile operators are projected to invest approximately USD 1.5 trillion through 2030, with the majority of this supporting 5G infrastructure. While the total investment is considerable, yearly spending is predicted to level off, in contrast to the rapid growth seen during the initial years of deployment.

    In the near future, global 5G subscriptions are projected to exceed six billion. The rise in mobile data traffic is expected to continue, driven by the growing popularity of AI applications, cloud computing, fixed wireless access, video streaming, and immersive digital services. This divergence between traffic growth and relatively stable CapEx illustrates the significant evolution of network technology. Modern mobile networks can handle much more data than previous generations without corresponding increases in physical infrastructure.

    The Rising Influence of AI

    One of the most significant shifts in telecom investment is the growing influence of AI. Operators are moving away from simply opening new radio sites, instead investing more in areas such as AI-ready optical transport, edge computing platforms, and intelligent network automation.

    AI is transforming network operations both internally and externally. Predictive maintenance, intelligent traffic management, AI-driven fault detection, and automated energy management are all made possible by AI, improving efficiency across large network footprints. AI also creates new revenue opportunities for operators through cloud connectivity, edge computing, managed AI infrastructure, and digital platform services.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the current trend in telecom CapEx?

    Telecom CapEx is stabilizing rather than continually increasing. Telecom operators are focusing on extracting greater value from their existing infrastructure.

    How is AI influencing telecom investment?

    AI is having a significant impact on telecom investment. Operators are investing more in AI-equipped areas, such as edge computing platforms, intelligent network automation and AI-ready optical transport.

    What is the future outlook for telecom growth?

    The next growth phase in telecom will be fueled by the integration of fiber, AI, cloud-native networks, automation, and shared infrastructure into smart digital platforms.

  • Globe Joins Forces with e& to Boost International Voice Services, Ensuring Secure, High-Quality Traffic

    Globe Joins Forces with e& to Boost International Voice Services, Ensuring Secure, High-Quality Traffic

    Globe, a prominent name in the telecommunication industry, recently revealed a strategic collaboration with e& Carrier & Wholesale Services (C&WS), internationally recognized as the global technology group e&’s wholesale division. The primary objective of this partnership is to supervise Globe’s international voice traffic.

    Enhancing Global Voice Services

    Under the terms of this agreement, e& is set to be Globe’s preferred partner for international voice services, providing a safe, reliable, and superior entry point for voice traffic aimed at the Globe network. e&’s international voice network, routing expertise, and security capacities will couple with Globe’s extensive market influence to offer carrier partners a safe and efficient route to the Globe network.

    Nabil Baccouche, e&’s Group Chief Carrier & Wholesale Officer, stated that this collaboration will not only enhance service quality but also ensure traffic protection and support future growth. Real-time monitoring and AI-enabled fraud detection will bolster these services.

    On the other hand, Darius Delgado, Chief Commercial Officer of Globe, expressed that the partnership signifies a significant leap in solidifying Globe’s international voice business. By collaborating with a global technology leader like e&, Globe aims to improve service quality, bolster fraud protection, and offer more value to international carrier partners.

    Prioritizing Security and Efficiency

    The service will benefit from e&’s voice security features, which include a voice firewall, AI-driven fraud prevention, real-time traffic monitoring, advanced analytics, and SIM-box detection. These features will play a crucial role in ensuring revenue protection, maintaining traffic integrity, and minimizing fraud on international voice routes.

    Globe’s strong presence in the Philippine market paired with e&’s extensive global carrier network and wholesale expertise will offer international operators an efficient connection to the Globe network. Carrier partners are expected to benefit from intelligent routing, improved traffic visibility, and consistent service management through e&.

    Questions & Answers

    What does the strategic partnership between Globe and e& aim to achieve?
    The partnership aims to supervise Globe’s international voice traffic and improve service quality, bolster fraud protection, and offer more value to international carrier partners.

    What security features will the service leverage?
    The service will leverage e&’s voice security features, including a voice firewall, AI-driven fraud prevention, real-time traffic monitoring, advanced analytics, and SIM-box detection.

    What benefits will carrier partners potentially gain from this partnership?
    Carrier partners can expect benefits such as intelligent routing, improved traffic visibility, and consistent service management through e&.

  • Skyrocketing Demand: Docomos Starlink Direct Soars to 5 Million Subscribers in Just Two Months

    Skyrocketing Demand: Docomos Starlink Direct Soars to 5 Million Subscribers in Just Two Months

    NTT DOCOMO, a prominent telecommunications company, has reported a remarkable surge in subscribers for its innovative Docomo Starlink Direct service. The subscription numbers exceeded 5 million just over two months after the service was launched, signaling a robust initial demand for direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity in Japan.

    A New Era in Mobile Connectivity

    The Docomo Starlink Direct service, which was launched on April 27, achieved this impressive milestone within approximately two months. The service facilitates a direct link for compatible smartphones to SpaceX’s Starlink satellites, bypassing the need for terrestrial base stations. It provides comprehensive coverage across Japan, extending up to 12 nautical miles offshore.

    The company attributes this rapid adoption to the growing interest in satellite-enabled mobile connectivity. Among the operator’s 92 million mobile subscribers, a substantial percentage of users with compatible devices have already activated the feature.

    Currently, the company supports 89 smartphone models for the service. Over 25 million compatible devices are already in operation. The Docomo Starlink Direct service contrasts with traditional satellite services, which necessitate specialized hardware. Instead, this service operates intuitively on supported smartphones, eliminating the need for users to register or subscribe separately. Furthermore, the company ensures that satellite data usage is not deducted from customers’ monthly mobile data allowances. Currently, the service is offered at no extra charge.

    The service allows for text messaging, location sharing, and compatible data applications in places where terrestrial mobile networks cannot reach.

    The Future of D2D Satellite Market

    The launch of this service firmly establishes NTT DOCOMO’s foothold in Japan’s burgeoning D2D satellite market. In this space, all major mobile operators are introducing satellite-supported connectivity.

    Operators in Japan view satellite connectivity as a solution to close the remaining mobile coverage gaps in the country’s remote and mountainous regions. This is despite the fact that terrestrial networks already cover over 99% of the country’s population. In addition to extending coverage, these services aim to ensure resilient communication when typical mobile infrastructure is compromised by natural disasters, such as earthquakes and tsunamis.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the Docomo Starlink Direct service?
    The Docomo Starlink Direct is a service offered by NTT DOCOMO that allows compatible smartphones to connect directly to SpaceX’s Starlink satellites, providing coverage across Japan and up to 12 nautical miles offshore.

    How is the service different from traditional satellite services?
    Unlike traditional satellite services which require dedicated hardware, Docomo Starlink Direct operates automatically on supported smartphones, without requiring users to register or subscribe separately.

    What is the purpose of these satellite connectivity services?
    The main purpose of these services is to close the remaining mobile coverage gaps in remote and mountainous regions and provide resilient communications when conventional mobile infrastructure is disrupted by unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters.

  • Digital Bridge Unveiled: China and Cambodia Debut Historic Subsea Cable System

    Digital Bridge Unveiled: China and Cambodia Debut Historic Subsea Cable System

    China Unicom Global, in partnership with Cambodia’s Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MPT), has made significant strides in the global telecommunications arena with the successful landing and installation of the Sihanoukville-Hong Kong (SHV-HK) submarine cable system. This monumental achievement establishes a direct digital link from Sihanoukville, Cambodia to the Tseung Kwan O Industrial Estate in Hong Kong SAR.

    First State-Owned International Submarine Fiber-Optic System in Cambodia

    The collaborative venture between the MPT and China Unicom Global has produced the inaugural state-owned international submarine fiber-optic system in Cambodia. Produced and deployed by HMN Tech, this significant investment, costing an estimated USD 165 million, is set to enhance high-capacity optical transport across the South China Sea.

    The SHV-HK subsea system spans an impressive 2,938 kilometers and features a main trunk with two additional stub cables, paving the way for potential expansions in the future. Boasting a design capacity of a whopping 80 Terabits per second across four fiber pairs, this cable has the capacity to support over 3.2 million simultaneous streams of 4K ultra-high-definition video or manage massive enterprise cloud transfers.

    Hong Kong’s Role in the Ambitious Project

    China Unicom Global is managing the Hong Kong segment of this ambitious project. The cable reaches the shore at a Beach Manhole (BMH) specifically located in the Tseung Kwan O Industrial Estate. Supplementing the overall infrastructure are the Power Feeding Equipment (PFE) and Submarine Line Terminal Equipment (SLTE) located at China Unicom Global’s global center and cable landing station in the Tseung Kwan O Industrial Estate. These installations will guide traffic effectively into the major local carrier-neutral data centers.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the length of the SHV-HK submarine cable system?
    The SHV-HK submarine cable system stretches for approximately 2,938 kilometers.

    What capacity does the SHV-HK submarine cable system hold?
    The cable system has a design capacity of up to 80 Terabits per second, which can support over 3.2 million simultaneous streams of 4K ultra-high-definition video or extensive enterprise cloud transfers.

    Who are the key players involved in this project?
    China Unicom Global and Cambodia’s Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications (MPT) have partnered to complete this project, with HMN Tech manufacturing and deploying the cable system.

  • Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison Delivers Double-Digit Growth, Accelerating Its AI-Led Transformation

    Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison Delivers Double-Digit Growth, Accelerating Its AI-Led Transformation

    PT Indosat delivered strong financial and operational performance in the first half of 2026, demonstrating how its AI-led transformation is strengthening the business today while building the foundation for Indonesia’s next phase of digital growth.

    For the six months ended 30 June 2026, Indosat recorded revenue of IDR30.7 trillion, up 13.1% year-on-year (YoY). EBITDA increased 14% YoY to IDR14.6 trillion, growing faster than revenue and maintaining a healthy EBITDA margin of 47.6%. Normalized figure of net profit attributable to owners of the parent rose 49.2% YoY to IDR3.2 trillion, supported by sustained business growth, disciplined cost management, and increasing operational efficiency.

    AI is now becoming an integral part of customers’ everyday digital experience. Through services such as Anti-Spam and Anti-Scam feature, Sahabat-AI, Gemini AI, and Adobe Express, Indosat is delivering greater productivity, creativity, and digital security as part of its connectivity offering. These differentiated experiences helped drive a 19.9% YoY increase in data traffic and a 17.3% YoY increase in Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) to IDR46 thousand, while maintaining a healthy mobile subscriber base of 93.4 million.

    Vikram Sinha, President Director and Chief Executive Officer of Indosat Ooredoo Hutchison, said, “Our AI North Star has always been about creating long-term value by transforming Indosat beyond connectivity into an AI-driven technology company. The double-digit growth we are achieving demonstrates the strength of this strategy and the momentum behind our transformation journey. This progress gives us the confidence to accelerate the next phase of our transformation, strengthening the capabilities that will become our future growth engines while helping build Indonesia’s AI ecosystem.”

    Investing Today’s Performance into Tomorrow’s Growth

    Strong operating performance has enabled Indosat to accelerate investments that will shape its next phase of growth. With a stronger financial foundation, Indosat is investing in the capabilities that will expand its technology business and unlock new long-term growth opportunities.

    A significant milestone during the first half was the establishment of PT Infra Fiber Teknologi (IFT) together with Arsari Group. Through the transfer of management of more than 86,000 kilometres of national fibre infrastructure, Indosat unlocked approximately IDR11.7 trillion in gross proceeds while adopting a more asset-light operating model. This transaction provides greater financial flexibility to accelerate investments in higher-growth opportunities that support Indosat’s long-term transformation.

    Building on this stronger capital position, Indosat continues to scale its AI Cloud business as enterprises accelerate AI adoption. During the first half of 2026, AI Cloud generated US$33 million in revenue, already surpassing its full-year 2025 revenue of US$28 million. This strong performance reflects accelerating enterprise demand for sovereign AI infrastructure and positions AI Cloud as one of Indosat’s key emerging growth engines.

    To support this growing AI ecosystem, Indosat also continues strengthening its connectivity. Indosat recently secured 80 MHz of spectrum across the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz bands, expanding network capacity and enhancing service quality as demand for AI-powered digital experiences continues to grow. Together with its continued focus on Customer Love, these investments will enable Indosat to deliver more reliable, intelligent, and personalized digital experiences, while unlocking new opportunities to monetize 5G services, including Fixed Wireless Access (FWA).

    Building Sustainable Growth

    As Indosat expands its AI-powered growth platforms, the Company remains committed to ensuring innovation creates lasting value for society and the environment. AI-powered network optimization and intelligent energy management reduced carbon emissions intensity by 50.89%, while Indosat’s commitment to responsible business practices was recognized through its inclusion in all three KEHATI ESG Indices—SRI-KEHATI, ESG Sector Leaders, and ESG Quality 45—for the June–November 2026 period.

    Indosat is also investing in Indonesia’s AI future through its partnership with the Ministry of Manpower (Kemnaker RI) and the Wadhwani Foundation, with the ambition to develop one million digital talents and 100,000 AI-driven entrepreneurs by 2029. Together, these efforts reinforce the Company’s belief that long-term AI leadership must be built on responsible innovation, sustainable growth, and inclusive talent development.

  • Mysterious $1B Investment in True Telecom Sparks Investigation by Thailands Market Regulator

    Mysterious $1B Investment in True Telecom Sparks Investigation by Thailands Market Regulator

    The Thai market regulator has initiated an investigation after an individual surfaced with an estimated one billion US dollars in shareholdings in telecom titan True Corporation, thereby becoming one of its largest shareholders. The regulatory body intends to gather further details and seek explanations from relevant entities in compliance with the standard procedures, as per a recent announcement.

    Stake Increase and Company Backing

    The individual, identified as Supaporn, disclosed in a regulatory filing last week that she had amplified her stake in True, which is based in Bangkok, from 3.9% by purchasing shares through an international broker. Her investment equates to roughly 32 billion baht ($960 million), calculated based on True’s closing price on Monday.

    True Corporation enjoys the backing of Charoen Pokphand Group (CP Group), one of the largest conglomerates in Thailand, and holds the position of the country’s second-largest mobile phone service provider. Earlier this year, Arise Digital Technology, under the control of True’s chairman Suphachai Chearavanont, bought approximately a 25% stake in True from Norway’s Telenor for 39 billion kroner (US$3.9 billion). Both CP Group and Telenor had studied the possibility of merging their telecom units in 2021.

    This deal also included an opportunity to buy an extra 5.4% stake within a two-year timeframe.

    Discrepancies and Legal Implications

    However, there seem to be some inconsistencies in the details provided by Supaporn in her regulatory filing, according to a statement issued by True. The firm stated that it has never offered preference shares to the public and currently does not have any outstanding preference shares. The company has reportedly informed the SEC about the inconsistency.

    The Thai regulator has issued a warning that stern legal measures would be enforced if the ongoing probe uncovers any breaches of the prevailing regulations.

    True also mentioned that the disclosure made by Supaporn about her augmented stake was labeled as preliminary, indicating that the details are incomplete and remain under scrutiny.

    On a different note, this Monday marked the completion of the sale of a 10% stake in True by the CP Group, achieved via a series of transactions as per an official statement.

    Questions & Answers

    What initiated the review by the Thai market regulator?
    The review was initiated after an individual emerged owning nearly one billion US dollars in shareholdings in True Corporation, making her one of its largest shareholders.

    Who is backing True Corporation?
    True Corporation is backed by Charoen Pokphand Group, one of Thailand’s largest conglomerates.

    How did True Corporation react to Supaporn’s regulatory filing?
    True Corporation pointed out some inconsistencies in Supaporn’s filing, stating that the company has never offered preference shares to the public and currently does not have any outstanding preference shares. The firm has notified the SEC about the discrepancy.

  • Singtel Faces Back-to-Back Disruptions: Singapore’s Largest Mobile Network Grapples with Connection Issues

    Singtel Faces Back-to-Back Disruptions: Singapore’s Largest Mobile Network Grapples with Connection Issues

    On Tuesday, customers of Singtel, the largest mobile network in Singapore, faced connectivity issues for the second consecutive day. These disruptions followed a Monday outage that lasted more than eight hours and impacted thousands of users, creating significant inconvenience for customers and affecting crucial services such as payments, ride-hailing, and food delivery.

    Singtel revealed that a “small number” of customers were experiencing connectivity issues, but clarified that these problems were unrelated to the Monday outage. By 5 p.m. on Tuesday, connectivity had been restored. The company issued an apology for the inconvenience caused to its customers.

    The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), in a recent statement, confirmed that initial investigations into the two incidents found no evidence of any cyber-related issues. They emphasized that they seriously view any service disruptions and pledged to thoroughly investigate both incidents. They also sternly warned that they would not hesitate to take stringent regulatory action against Singtel if any lapses were identified.

    Previous Disruption and Cyber Attack

    On Monday, Singtel experienced a severe network outage that lasted more than eight hours. This disruption led to many Singtel users reporting issues with their mobile services. Some were even unable to make payments or use mobile data for work-related tasks.

    Last month, the authorities in Singapore reported that all four major telcos, including Singtel, had been targeted in a cyberattack by UNC3886. This assault, disclosed last year, enabled the attackers to access critical systems at the telcos. However, no sensitive customer data was compromised.

    Continuing Issues and Customer Dissatisfaction

    Despite the restoration of services, many Singtel and GOMO users reported that they were still unable to reconnect on Tuesday. They expressed frustration over the slow customer service responses. GOMO is a budget-friendly sub-brand of Singtel.

    Priscilla Wee, a 56-year-old homemaker, shared her ordeal of repeatedly turning her phone off and on and reloading her GOMO e-SIM. However, her efforts were in vain. Out of frustration, she terminated her GOMO line on March 17 and switched to StarHub. She stated, “The trust factor with Singtel is now gone.”

    Aaron Ang, chief technology officer of Cyber Leaders Nexus, a Singapore-based cybersecurity company, commented on the situation. He suggested that engineers responding to a significant outage often resort to restarting systems, rerouting traffic, or implementing quick fixes. Such remedial actions can put stress on other parts of the system or reveal hidden issues, potentially causing a second, separate outage.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the cause of the recent Singtel disruptions?
    The company stated that they were unrelated incidents and not associated with any cyber-related issues.

    What were the consequences of these disruptions?
    Thousands of users were affected, with some unable to use essential services such as payments, ride-hailing, and food delivery, leading to significant inconvenience.

    What is the IMDA’s stance on these incidents?
    The Infocomm Media Development Authority takes a serious view of service disruptions, pledging to thoroughly investigate both incidents and warning of stringent regulatory action if any lapses are identified.

  • Nokia Hits the Mark: Reports 3% Q4 Revenue Boost and Meets Full-Year Goals for 2025

    Nokia Hits the Mark: Reports 3% Q4 Revenue Boost and Meets Full-Year Goals for 2025

    Nokia Corporation recently announced a 3% increase in comparable net sales for Q4 2025, achieving EUR 6.1 billion. This increase is attributed to growth in both its network infrastructure and mobile networks businesses. The company’s outcomes are in line with its full-year financial objectives, demonstrating a year of strategic redirection and portfolio growth.

    Financial Overview

    In 2025, Nokia saw a 2% year-on-year rise in net sales on a constant currency and portfolio basis, and a 3% increase as reported.

    The company reported a full-year operating profit of EUR 2.0 billion, marginally surpassing its previously issued guidance midpoint of EUR 1.85 billion.

    Although Q4 saw a rise in revenue, Nokia’s comparable operating margin fell by 90 basis points year-on-year to 17.3%. This decrease can primarily be attributed to increased investment in network infrastructure and costs tied to the integration of Infinera, a recent acquisition aimed at strengthening Nokia’s optical networking portfolio.

    The comparable gross margin expanded by 90 basis points to 48.1%, underpinned by a robust product mix that compensated for a reduced contribution from Nokia Technologies. The reported gross margin, on the other hand, fell by 120 basis points to 44.9% due to augmented restructuring costs.

    In Q4, the comparable diluted EPS was EUR 0.16 (reported EUR 0.10), with a free cash flow of EUR 0.2 billion and a net cash balance of EUR 3.4 billion. For the full year, net sales expanded by 2% on a constant currency and portfolio basis (+3% reported). All these figures are within the prior guidance.

    Networks Overview

    Optical networks became a major growth catalyst, bolstered by robust demand from AI and cloud deployments. IP networks saw roughly 3% growth, facilitated by a strong Q4 2024 showing. Fixed networks stayed largely steady as portfolio optimization actions balanced out growth in fiber OLT shipments. The company’s book-to-bill ratio remained well above 1, reflecting ongoing momentum across both optical and IP networks. Gross margins stayed mostly consistent year-on-year, but operating margins declined due to continued investments related to growth and the integration of Infinera.

    Cloud and network services experienced a slight year-on-year dip in Q4, though full-year net sales increased by 6%, driven by strong demand in core networks. Q4’s gross margin benefited from a modest provision reversal of EUR 37 million. Even excluding this, margins improved, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance profitability. Mobile networks also witnessed strong year-end demand, leading to a 6% growth in net sales in Q4, with gross margins bolstered by a favorable product mix. Meanwhile, Nokia Technologies signed several deals during the quarter, maintaining the contracted net sales run-rate at around EUR 1.4 billion.

    Questions & Answers

    What was Nokia’s full-year operating profit for 2025?
    Nokia’s full-year operating profit for 2025 was EUR 2.0 billion.

    What factors contributed to the decline in Nokia’s comparable operating margin in Q4 2025?
    The decline in Nokia’s comparable operating margin in Q4 2025 was primarily due to increased investment in network infrastructure and costs associated with the integration of Infinera.

    What trends were observed in Nokia’s network businesses in 2025?
    In 2025, optical networks emerged as a key growth driver for Nokia, supported by strong demand from AI and cloud deployments. Fixed networks remained stable, while IP networks saw about 3% growth.

  • Hong Kong and Cambodia Unite to Crush Spam Communications: A Victory for Cross-Border Collaboration

    Hong Kong and Cambodia Unite to Crush Spam Communications: A Victory for Cross-Border Collaboration

    The Hong Kong Office of the Communications Authority (OFCA) and the Telecommunication Regulator of Cambodia (TRC) have agreed to a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at bolstering their collaborative efforts in the fight against scam calls, scam messages, and other forms of spam communication.

    Strengthening Regulatory Cooperation

    The MoU was signed on January 26th during a bilateral meeting between Mr. Chaucer Leung, the Director-General of Communications for Hong Kong, and Mr. Chenda Thong, the Chairman of Cambodia’s TRC. This agreement sets out a comprehensive framework that will facilitate closer cooperation and a more streamlined exchange of information between the two regulatory bodies.

    The outlined areas of focus include regulatory practices, public awareness campaigns, and the development of technological practices specifically designed to mitigate the impact of scam and spam communications, such as voice calls and SMS messages.

    Shared Commitment to Tackling Scam and Spam Communications

    Commenting on the significance of the MoU, Mr. Chaucer Leung noted its importance in facilitating the sharing of expertise and experiences in battling scam and spam communications. He elaborated that it would also encourage the timely sharing of insights regarding emerging market trends and developments, allowing both regulators to identify and effectively tackle evolving scams and spam threats in Hong Kong and Cambodia. The MoU, according to Mr. Leung, is a clear demonstration of their joint commitment to devising and improving measures to effectively handle scam and spam communications.

    Measures in Place in Hong Kong

    In Hong Kong, the OFCA has been collaborating closely with telecommunications service providers and government departments to maintain the integrity of its communications network. These efforts have seen the implementation of key measures such as requiring operators to block suspected fraudulent phone numbers and websites, barring suspicious inbound calls that attempt to spoof the +852 Hong Kong prefix, the introduction of the SMS Sender Registration Scheme, and the enforcement of the Real-Name Registration Program for SIM cards.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the main focus of the MoU signed between the Hong Kong OFCA and the Cambodian TRC?
    The MoU provides a framework for cooperation and information sharing between the two regulators, aimed at combating scam and spam communications. This includes voice calls and SMS messages.

    Who signed the MoU on behalf of the two countries?
    The MoU was signed by Mr. Chaucer Leung, the Director-General of Communications for Hong Kong, and Mr. Chenda Thong, the Chairman of Cambodia’s Telecommunication Regulator.

    What measures have been implemented in Hong Kong to tackle scam and spam communications?
    In Hong Kong, various measures have been put in place. These include requiring operators to block suspected fraudulent phone numbers and websites, barring suspicious inbound calls spoofing the +852 Hong Kong prefix, implementing the SMS Sender Registration Scheme, and enforcing the Real-Name Registration Program for SIM cards.

  • LS Cable & System Spearheads Submarine Power Grid Expansion in Malaysia: Aims for Dominance in Booming Asia-Pacific Subsea Cable Market

    LS Cable & System Spearheads Submarine Power Grid Expansion in Malaysia: Aims for Dominance in Booming Asia-Pacific Subsea Cable Market

    The initiative’s main objective is to guarantee a reliable power supply by enlarging a 132kV-grade underwater power grid between the Malaysian peninsula and Langkawi Island, a well-known tourist hotspot.

    LS Cable & System prevailed over several international corporations to secure this second Langkawi venture, following an earlier project. The firm emphasized its capacity to manage intricate turn-key projects, supervising everything from design and material provision to installation and construction. This was over and above the basic cable supply, thus demonstrating its superior engineering proficiency.

    It is predicted that the worldwide underwater cable market will increase to KRW 34 trillion by 2030. The Asia-Pacific region, renowned for its abundant islands, is likely to be at the forefront of this surge with KRW 20 trillion. At present, Southeast Asia is diligently working on large-scale underwater power grid projects in an effort to set up the ASEAN Power Grid (APG). The primary goal of the APG is to interconnect national power infrastructures.

    LS Cable & System is poised to use this project as a stepping stone to boost its international order references and quicken its growth in the local market. The company plans to join forces with LS Marine Solution and other associates on large national projects. One example of such a project is the West Coast energy highway, for which a bidding notice is expected to be released in the first half of this year.

    LS Cable & System stated, “We are establishing credibility in the global market, built upon previous project implementation experience and our technical prowess. We are determined to strengthen our leadership in the underwater cable market by successfully executing domestic and international backbone network construction projects, leveraging our proven turn-key competencies.”

    Questions & Answers

    What is the primary goal of the project?
    The project’s main goal is to ensure a reliable power supply by expanding a 132kV-grade underwater power grid between the Malaysian peninsula and Langkawi Island.

    What is LS Cable & System’s role in the project?
    LS Cable & System is responsible for managing complex turn-key projects, including design, material supply, laying, and construction.

    What future plans does LS Cable & System have?
    LS Cable & System plans to use this project to enhance its international order references and accelerate its expansion into the domestic market. It also intends to collaborate with LS Marine Solution and other partners on large-scale national projects.

  • Revolutionizing Taiwan’s Connectivity: Chunghwa Telecom Spearheads North Asia’s First O3b mPower Ground Station with SES

    Revolutionizing Taiwan’s Connectivity: Chunghwa Telecom Spearheads North Asia’s First O3b mPower Ground Station with SES

    Chunghwa Telecom, a Taiwan-based telecommunications company, has officially partnered with SES, a satellite operator based in Luxembourg. The two companies have struck a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop the first second-generation O3b mPower ground station in North Asia, located in Taiwan.

    The Aim of the Agreement

    The primary objective of this cooperation is to substantially improve Taiwan’s Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite data transfer capacity and service performance. The project expects to provide faster, more reliable, and highly robust satellite connectivity. In addition to enhancing the data transmission, the project also seeks to strengthen Taiwan’s vital communication infrastructure. To achieve this, it will ensure that essential traffic information is landed directly within the country, thereby supporting network sovereignty and resilience.

    Collaboration’s Contributions

    As part of their collaboration, SES will use their system deployment and operational expertise from their Satellite Innovation Centre in The Hague, the Netherlands. The partnership will highlight the advanced applications that satellites can offer. These include the integration of multi-orbit satellite communications, connectivity to the cloud, edge computing, data analytics for the Internet of Things (IoT), and automated machine vision.

    Furthermore, Chunghwa Telecom and SES are looking into the possibility of establishing a Satellite Innovation Lab in Taiwan. This proposed undertaking will have demonstration sites and certification processes meant to aid domestic companies in speeding up the validation of technology and the adoption of products. By aligning with SES’s global ecosystem, Taiwanese firms might have the opportunity to penetrate international supply chains and gain commercial opportunities.

    Benefitting Taiwan’s Global Stature

    This collaborative effort utilizes Taiwan’s proficiency in semiconductors and avant-garde manufacturing to create a cooperative hardware-and-software ecosystem. This will further reinforce Taiwan’s strategic position in the global satellite and space technology sector.

    Jia Chung-Yung, President of Chunghwa Telecom’s Network Technology Group, shared that the company continues to amalgamate diverse communication resources to build a new-generation network architecture. This structure marries high resilience and technological innovation. He assured that the company will continue to invest in the development of next-generation communication technologies and promote diversified services and application innovations. Furthermore, he emphasized the company’s commitment to its ESG sustainability goals, laying a long-term foundation for Taiwan’s communication resilience.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the primary aim of the collaboration between Chunghwa Telecom and SES?
    The collaboration primarily aims to improve Taiwan’s Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite data transfer capacity and service performance, and strengthen Taiwan’s essential communication infrastructure.

    What will be SES’s contribution to this collaboration?
    SES will leverage its system deployment and operational expertise from their Satellite Innovation Centre to highlight advanced satellite-enabled applications such as cloud connectivity, edge computing, and IoT data analytics.

    What is the purpose of the proposed Satellite Innovation Lab in Taiwan?
    The Satellite Innovation Lab aims to provide demonstration sites and certification processes to aid domestic firms in speeding up the validation of technology and product adoption, potentially opening up access to international supply chains and commercial opportunities.