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Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) has today announced the completion of its new fibre optic network hub or point of presence (PoP) project phase 1 installations, across northern region, Sabah and Sarawak. The launch ceremony, which was officiated by YB Fahmi Fadzil, Minister of Communications and Digital, took place at SMK Padang Terap, Kuala Nerang, Kedah.

PoP is a place where different devices connect to each other and to the internet. In simple terms, PoP brings fibre closer to users. By setting up PoP locations near schools, people in rural and remote areas can get better and faster internet services in their homes. This will improve internet access and connectivity for more people in the community.

During the ceremony, YB Fahmi highlighted the significant benefits and opportunities that the new PoPs would bring. The new PoPs represent a major step forward in the government’s efforts to narrow the digital gap and promote digital inclusion across Malaysia.

More to Come from TM

A total of 4,370 PoPs had been planned under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), where 4,323 PoPs will be installed near rural schools and 47 PoPs near industrial areas. Phase 1 of the project involves 677 sites. The remaining will be implemented under phase 2 from 2022 to 2025. A total of 233 PoP circuits were installed under phase 1, with 100% completion achieved by TM—ahead of other industry players.

“We are thrilled to see the progress and achievements of this project, which will bring significant benefits and opportunities to the community, including improved internet quality, economic development and the development of new infrastructures,” said Shazurawati Abdul Karim, Executive Vice President at TM One.

PoP will create a more balanced and inclusive regional development. It will boost the growth of new technologies like 5G and future generations of communication technologies. Through this initiative, users in TM’s PoP area have now reached over 9,000 and are increasing. A total of 58 of its users are schools that have subscribed to Unifi services. The widespread internet accessibility will not only help develop the rural economy but also allow learning materials to be downloaded. This will, in turn, improve the quality of education in schools, equipping future generations with a wealth of knowledge.

“As the nation’s telecommunications leader and enabler of Digital Malaysia, TM is committed to support the nation’s development agenda through the benefits brought by hyperconnectivity and digital solutions, which will accelerate digital adoption and new economic growth,” added Shazurawati.

A Boost to the Digital Economy

“The presence of PoP can attract technology companies, startups and other businesses that require a high-speed internet connection to operate. This can create more job opportunities, increase innovation, and stimulate economic growth in local communities,” concluded Shazurawati.

The collaboration between TM and the government demonstrates the shared commitment to deliver digital inclusivity throughout Malaysia. For phase 2 of the PoP project, TM has been awarded with 174 sites in the central region. This phase is expected to further boost digital connectivity and economic development for Malaysia.

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