The world we live in today is highly digitalised. For one, you’re likely reading this either on your laptop or your phone.
However, even though Malaysia has made many great strides when it comes to technological advancements, there’s still a digital divide that exists in our country.
To narrow this divide, U Mobile and Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation Berhad (SDEC) have decided to team up, working together to empower Sarawak’s SMEs with cutting-edge 5G technologies.
The two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on January 17 to mark this collaboration.
Their partnership will not only enhance enterprise digitalisation in the state, but also allow them to explore solutions such as small cell technology to further narrow the digital divide by providing connectivity to underserved areas.
Wholly owned by the Government of Sarawak, SDEC operates under the Ministry of Finance and New Economy’s purview. That means it’s mandated to spearhead Sarawak’s digital economy initiatives and transform Sarawak into a “Digital Economy Powerhouse.”
Incorporated in January 2018 and operationalised in July 2020, its main objectives are to revolutionise Sarawak’s economy and industries as well as to spur socio-economic growth and advancement.
This partnership with U Mobile is one of many ways that the organisation is accomplishing its mission.
What it entails
With this partnership, U Mobile will work with SDEC on initiatives that accelerate digital transformation for SMEs in Sarawak, further closing the gap for those in underserved areas.
To drive the adoption of 5G technologies and solutions in Sarawak’s SMEs, the two organisations will carry out initiatives such as providing 5G network connectivity, educational programmes, devices, and innovative use case solutions.
This will all help local businesses enhance their competitiveness in the digital economy.
Additionally, following the success of a small cell proof of concept in providing coverage to a longhouse in Long Lawen, Sarawak, U Mobile and SDEC aim to explore similar solutions to provide connectivity to rural and underserved areas.
Beyond their MoU, both organisations are also currently collaborating on the Sarawak Multimedia Authority Rural Telecommunication 600 (SMART600) project.
Through this project, U Mobile’s 4G coverage will be made available to serve rural communities in Sarawak through Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) technology.
These efforts highlight U Mobile’s ongoing commitment to improving digital connectivity and access for Sarawakians.
According to the blueprint
The partnership aligns to the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030, which envisions a robust digital economy fostering an inclusive and green digital society by 2030.
It also complements U Mobile’s drive to narrow the digital divide in the nation and enable Malaysia to become a technology-enabled high income nation.
“As Malaysia’s future second 5G network provider, U Mobile is committed to play a critical role in realising Malaysia’s goals of being a digitally enabled high income nation,” said Alex Tan, Chief Sales Officer of U Mobile.
“By collaborating with SDEC, we aim to empower Sarawak’s communities and businesses with cutting-edge 5G technology and digital solutions, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey towards a digitally connected future.”
Dato Ir. Ts. Sudarnoto Osman, CEO of SDEC, shared: “As Malaysia progresses in its digital journey, fostering industry collaboration including exploring potential 5G use-cases with U Mobile is essential to ensuring Sarawak remains at the forefront of technological advancements.”
“Our focus remains on empowering the people and businesses of Sarawak with access to cutting-edge digital solutions, driving sustainable growth and innovation.”
Featured Image Credit: U Mobile & Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation Berhad (SDEC)
