• The partnership will see both parties work together to empower Sarawak’s SMEs with cutting-edge 5G technologies to enhance enterprise digitalisation in the state
• Both parties will also explore solutions like small cell technology to further narrow the digital divide by providing connectivity to underserved areas
• 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, and complements U Mobile’s drive to narrow the digital divide in the nation to enable Malaysia to become a technology-enabled high income nation

14 JANUARY 2025, KUALA LUMPUR – U Mobile, Malaysia’s future second 5G network provider, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation Berhad (SDEC) to establish a strategic partnership aimed at realising the ambitions of the Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030, which envisions a robust digital economy as well as an inclusive digital society for the state by 2030. To achieve this, U Mobile will work with SDEC on initiatives that accelerate digital transformation for SMEs in Sarawak, as well as narrow the digital divide for those in underserved areas.

Through this partnership, U Mobile and SDEC will collaborate to drive the adoption of 5G technologies and solutions in Sarawak’s SMEs. This includes providing 5G network connectivity, educational programmes, devices, and innovative use case solutions to empower local businesses and enhance their competitiveness in the digital economy.

Additionally, following the success of a Small Cell Proof of Concept (POC) in providing coverage to a longhouse in Long Lawen, Sarawak, U Mobile and SDEC will collaborate to further narrow the digital divide by exploring similar solutions to provide connectivity to rural and underserved areas.

“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. We are delighted to have signed this partnership with SDEC as it is aligned with our commitment and enables us to achieve broader national ambitions. 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. We are proud to play a role in supporting Sarawak’s vision to build an inclusive and green digital economy by 2030,” said Alex Tan, Chief Sales Officer of U Mobile.  

“SDEC remains committed to facilitating strategic engagements that contribute to Sarawak’s digital development and economic transformation. 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,” said Dato Ir. Ts. Sudarnoto Osman, Chief Executive Officer of SDEC.

Beyond this MoU, both parties are also currently collaborating on the Sarawak Multimedia Authority Rural Telecommunication 600 (SMART600) project, where U Mobile’s 4G coverage will be made available to serve rural communities in Sarawak through Multi-Operator Core Network (MOCN) technology. This highlights U Mobile’s ongoing commitment to improving digital connectivity and access for Sarawakians.

The MoU was formalised during the launching of MySRBN’s (Sarawak Rural Broadband Network) new coverage at Kampung Betanak, Pulau Bruit in Mukah division, in the presence of YB Dato Sri Haji Julaihi bin Haji Narawi, Minister for Utility and Telecommunication Sarawak.