MIMOS launches first Internet of Things Technical Working Group Workshop towards developing National IoT Blueprint
Kuala Lumpur, May 14: MIMOS today launched the first national Internet of Things Technical Working Group (IoT TWG) Workshop to kick start the development of the National IoT Blueprint, which will play a key role in shaping Malaysia’s ICT landscape and take advantage of the numerous opportunities offered by IoT technologies.
The two-day Workshop, which brings together the cream of the cream from the technology community, academia and government agencies nationwide, will share knowledge and discuss ideas on means to best address the importance and impact the IoT will have on the country’s economic and social progress and explore collaboration in IoT research, development and commercialisation.
Launched under the patronage of the Science Advisor to the Prime Minister, Professor Emeritus Dato’ Sri Dr Zakri Abdul Hamid, the opening of the workshop was also attended by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation’s Deputy Secretary General (Science), Dr Zulkifli Mohamed Hashim.
“The IoT will inspire new working practices and business processes, spark a new wave of innovation, allow us to penetrate new markets and industries and encourage greater investments in technology,” said Dr Zulkifli. “With the right direction and policies, the National IoT Blueprint will bring about tremendous economic benefits to the country.”
The Internet of Things encompasses the integration of enabling technologies – devices, embedded software, connectivity/communications and information services, among others. It is expected to transform daily life via the application of smart appliances, homes, offices, vehicles, streets and cities.
Dr Zakri said the Blueprint would realise the Science to Action (S2A) initiative launched last year by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak. The initiative aims to intensify the application of science and technology for industrial development and the wellbeing of Malaysians through three key components: Science to Industry, Science to Wellbeing and Science to Governance.
“The Internet of Things will also act as Science to Action enablers,” he said. “In Science to Industry, for example, it will realise opportunities in the digital age which in turn can lead to a Gross National Income of RM1.7 billion and the creation of 14,720 new jobs by 2020.”
Dr Zakri said the Blueprint would also complement national transformative initiatives as Digital Malaysia, the Government Transformation Programme and the Economic Transformation Programme.
“The Internet of Things will change the digital market and create greater economic value for all organisations and for Malaysia’s economy” he said, adding that the Blueprint would be presented to the government in October.
MIMOS President and Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Abdul Wahab Abdullah said the Internet of Things was a logical progression for the national R&D centre in ICT after having ‘introduced’ the Internet to Malaysia in 1992.
“MIMOS has been undertaking applied research in ICT towards raising national competitiveness and to position Malaysia as an innovation-led economy since our inception in 1985,” he said. “It is therefore fitting that we spearhead the IoT initiative with the support from the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation.”
Agencies and companies taking part in the Workshop include the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), National Heart Institute, Cisco Systems, Celcom Axiata Berhad, Intel, Oracle Corporation and Microsoft.
SCCyberworld
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
Addressing the impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) on Malaysia
XPAX CELEBRATES THE SAMBA SPIRIT WITH KAX!
Watch out for exclusive collectibles, exciting activities and exceptional offers
to commemorate the biggest sporting event of the year
KUALA LUMPUR, 14 May 2014 – Football fever is on! Xpax, Celcom Axiata Berhad’s main prepaid brand for youth, is igniting the passion of football fans in Malaysia by rewarding customers with KAX, a series of eight limited edition blue and purple collectibles that makes the perfect companion as Malaysians celebrate the excitement of the biggest sporting event of the year.
The KAX promotion lasts from 29 April 2014 until 31 August 2014 and customers will get the chance to own their very own KAX that comes in eight different designs, dressed in football jerseys which are given away free when they sign up with Xpax.
Speaking at the launch of KAX, Zalman Aefendy Zainal Abidin, Chief Marketing Officer of Celcom Axiata Berhad, said, “Malaysia is a football-obsessed nation and with the biggest sporting event of the year just around the corner, Xpax is pleased to introduce the cute and cuddly KAX to our customers and bring Malaysians together in celebrating the football fever that is set to sweep the country and the rest of the world soon.
“The KAX collectibles make the perfect companion and a lovable best friend with their unique, different and infectious personalities that will excite collectors who can never get enough of soft and adorable collectibles. We are happy to offer these collectibles to our customers and the KAX collection signifies Xpax’s effort to delight our customers by providing offerings that are beyond our core products, in line with our commitment to enhance customer experience,” said Zalman.
The launch saw the introduction of Romeo KAX, Foxy KAX, Harley KAX, Peachy KAX, Jasper KAX, Mia KAX, Joey KAX and Dolly KAX which form the complete collection of the KAX collectibles.
Customers can get the limited edition KAX series while stocks last, from redemption centres including Celcom Blue Cube nationwide and selected Celcom Xclusive starting 15 May 2014. Customers can get their hands on these exclusive KAX collectibles via any of the following steps:
a. Xpax:
i. New customers: Activate Xpax starter pack and reload RM30
ii. Existing customers: Subscribe to Monthly Mobile Internet Plan or Pick A Pack worth a minimum of RM7 per week
b. Celcom First:
i. New customers: Sign up with Celcom First Prime/Premier/Elite plan
ii. Existing customers: Subscribe to Mobile Internet mBasic, mAdvance or mPro
c. Celcom Frenz: Subscribe by dialing *141# and reload RM30 and above
d. Celcom Traveller SIM: Activate Pack worth either RM39 or RM59 and subscribe to Mobile Internet weekly
e. Celcom PortaWiFi: Sign up with any Celcom PortaWiFi Plans with EXTRA DATA and RM120 rebate
f. Celcom Broadband: Sign up with selected Broadband packages or purchase additional volume of 5GB
“Watch out for KAX, all eight of them as they will be making appearances at Xpax roadshows and on-ground activities at various shopping complexes. They will also invade your favourite social media sites including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. KAX is for all fans and non-fans alike as football transcends all boundaries. So what are you waiting for? Let’s come together and join in the fun to celebrate the forth coming football frenzy with KAX,” Zalman added.
For more information on KAX and the list of redemption centres, visit www.xpax.com.my/ www.celcom.com.my
Friday, April 11, 2014
Samsung Malaysia Surprises 55 Selected Owners of GALAXY S5
Telco partners and Samsung Brand Stores hand goodies and perks to eager new owners
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia – April 11, 2014 – Samsung Malaysia Electronics rewarded 55 selected fans with a special gift worth RM200 each at five selected locations in Klang Valley and Penang, in conjunction with the consumer launch of the GALAXY S5. These 55 fans were chosen from Celcom Blue Cube and DiGi Concept Store at Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall, Maxis Centre at Suria KLCC, Samsung Experience Store at The Gardens Mall and Gurney Paragon Mall Penang.
Lee Dong Yong, President of Samsung Malaysia Electronics said: "We are excited to be here today to thank our loyal customers for their enduring support all these years. As such, we decided to select 55 fans to represent the 5 core pillars of the GALAXY S5, which are fun, fit, life, speed and style.
"The GALAXY S5 is Samsung's people-inspired smartphone to complement every aspect of our consumers' lifestyles. We look forward to designing more innovative products that resonate with the needs of our consumers," Lee elaborated.
The GALAXY S5, Gear 2 and Gear Fit are available for purchase at all Samsung Experience Stores nationwide, as well as Samsung's telco partners - Celcom, DiGi and Maxis. Meanwhile, the devices will be available at all Malaysian retailers by the end of the month, joining the shelves of 125 countries including the US, Europe, Middle East, Latin America and most Asian markets. The GALAXY S5 retails at RM2,399, while the Gear 2 and Gear Fit are priced at RM899 and 599 respectively.
For more information, please visit www.samsung.com/my or visit Samsung Mobile Malaysia Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/samsungmobilemalaysia.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
CELCOM ENHANCES YOUR LIFE WITH THE NEW SAMSUNG GALAXY S5
Be among the first 200 customers to get either a Samsung GALAXY Tab 3 Lite
or Samsung GALAXY Y Neo for a RM55 when signing up with Celcom First plans
KUALA LUMPUR, 9 April 2014 – Celcom Axiata Berhad, the first and foremost mobile telecommunications provider in Malaysia, is thrilled to offer its customers another Samsung flagship smartphone, the Samsung GALAXY S5 bundled with attractive mobile voice and data plans that work best with Celcom Territory’s stable, fastest and widest nationwide mobile network.
To celebrate the latest addition to Celcom’s world of smartphones, customers can look forward to the launch of the Samsung GALAXY S5 at all Celcom Blue Cubes and Celcom Xclusive nationwide on Friday, 11 April 2014. The Samsung GALAXY S5 will be offered from as low as RM988 with Celcom First Voice + Data mPro bundle plans. The first 200 customers to visit the launch at Bluecube Sunway Pyramid will get an exclusive privilege to either own a Samsung GALAXY Tab 3 Lite or Samsung GALAXY Y Neo at only RM55 when signing up with Celcom First and mPro plan.
Commenting on the upcoming launch, Zalman Aefendy Zainal Abidin, Chief Marketing Officer of Celcom Axiata Berhad, said, “The much anticipated Samsung GALAXY S5 fits perfectly into the reliable network coverage within Celcom’s Fastest Territory as its features aims to deliver the capabilities that matter most to our consumers. With a whole range of customised Celcom plans and bundles that will appeal to any customers, the Samsung GALAXY S5 is a welcome addition to our extensive range of smartphone choices that will give our customers the best mobile experience for their ever-evolving digital lifestyles.”
The Samsung GALAXY S5 runs on a 2.5GHz Quad-Core Snapdragon 801 processor with 2GB of RAM, on the latest Android 4.4 KitKat. The smartphone’s 16MP camera is further enhanced with new features including Real-time HDR. The inclusion of health features such as the heart rate sensor and the enhanced S Health app in the Samsung GALAXY S5 makes it unique as it encourages customers to lead a healthier lifestyle.
Customers can expect high speed connectivity with the new Samsung GALAXY S5 as it also comes with 4G LTE support. With Celcom’s lightning fast 4G LTE, users of the new Samsung flagship smartphone can enjoy clear HD videos and seamless online video streaming as well as more added fun while playing their favourite games online. Celcom is committed to providing the fastest LTE network to its customers as clearly demonstrated by its investment of RM923 million for CAPEX in 2013, the highest in the industry, mainly on network modernization, LTE and IT transformation. Celcom will be investing another RM1 billion this year in CAPEX to improve network quality and capacity to offer better customer data experience.
Customer satisfaction and giving the best customer experience have always been the core of Celcom’s business. Celcom recently organised a preview night of the Samsung GALAXY S5 for Celcom First Elite customers where they had the opportunity to be the first to reserve, experience and own the latest Samsung flagship smartphone which is one of the brand promises of Celcom First Elite offered by First Access.
To further enhance the overall customer experience, Celcom is launching three loyalty programs later today, namely Club Celcom First, XClub and FRENZ Club to provide instant rewards and more value to Celcom customers who subscribe to Celcom First, Xpax and Celcom FRENZ plans.
For more information on Samsung GALAXY S5, please visit Celcom’s website http://www.celcom.com.my
Saturday, December 14, 2013
CELCOM AND DIGI SEAL COLLABORATIVE DEAL WITH TM FOR TM NEXT-GEN BACKHAUL™ SERVICES
Key industry players set to work together to provide extensive robust backhaul network infrastructure for broadband rollout in Peninsular Malaysia …
Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) together with two (2) key mobile operators Celcom Axiata Berhad (Celcom), through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Celcom Networks Sdn Bhd (Celcom Networks) and DiGi Telecommunications Sdn. Bhd. (DiGi) today marked another major milestone in the nation’s telecommunications industry when the three (3) operators inked a wholesale bandwidth collaborative deal for TM Next-Gen Backhaul™ Services.
Witnessed by YB. Dato’ Jailani Johari, Deputy Minister of Communications and Multimedia, the principle terms of the landmark collaborative deal was documented in two (2) binding documents signed by Chief Executive Officers of TM, Celcom and DiGi; Tan Sri Zamzamzairani Mohd Isa, Group Chief Executive Officer, TM, Dato’ Sri Shazalli Ramly, Chief Executive Officer, Celcom and Henrik Clausen, Chief Executive Officer, DiGi respectively. Also present at the event was Dato’ Mohamed Sharil Mohamed Tarmizi, Chairman, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
To keep pace with the on going demands and needs of the industry, Malaysian Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are challenged to deliver significant improvement in their network quality to offer low latency and high bandwidth to mobile devices. In order to achieve this, MNOs need to gain access to more backhaul networks providing higher degrees of flexibility and better scalability. This industry collaboration also serves as a positive move; enabling a higher quality customer experience when they access high-bandwidth digital content, or run real-time applications on their mobile devices.
In this groundbreaking collaborative deal, TM will provide wholesale bandwidth connectivity via TM Next-Gen Backhaul™ services for aggregation and access sites jointly owned by Celcom (via Celcom Networks) and DiGi, covering a span of between 3,000 and 3,500 kilometres in Peninsular Malaysia. This forms an important part of the ongoing network collaboration initiative between Celcom and DiGi announced in early 2011, particularly with regards to the joint ambition to roll out more than 10,000 kilometres of fibre network nationwide.
Commenting on the collaboration, Tan Sri Zamzamzairaini said, “We are indeed very happy with this signing with Celcom and DiGi, two (2) major players in the industry, in what is yet another landmark collaboration. As Malaysia’s leading telecommunications infrastructure provider, TM will optimise its extensive nationwide network infrastructure coverage to provide cost effective and high capacity bandwidth via resilient IP network platform for TM Next-Gen Backhaul™ Services deployment. This will support the continuous and ever-growing needs for higher mobile bandwidth demand of both Celcom and DiGi’s customers. Backhaul networks need to be able to support the main traffic types – voice, video, network signalling/management and internet data. Leveraging on TM’s strength on its nationwide fibre coverage and resilient network platform, Celcom and DiGi subscribers will be able to enjoy seamless and quality services via their mobile devices everywhere, anywhere.”
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Henrik Clausen, DiGi’s Chief Executive Officer said; “Demand for quality internet services is growing year-by-year in Malaysia, and Malaysians all over the country today require access to always-on, high-speed data connectivity to cater to their increasing needs. By leasing wholesale bandwidth services for access and aggregation fibre network from TM, DiGi will be able to obtain quick access to fibre infrastructure to support our future network capacity demands, to deliver affordable and high-quality internet connectivity to more Malaysians.”
“Infrastructure sharing among industry players is gaining traction around the world. Our collaborative effort today marks another clear move to be more operationally efficient as an industry, and by leveraging on synergies created we will be able to build and utilise our assets more efficiently, optimise costs, and avoid duplicating network infrastructures. Ultimately, benefits derived from operational efficiencies will be channeled towards accelerating our reach and significantly improving the quality of our services to all customers across Malaysia.”
Further commenting on the collaboration, Dato’ Sri Shazalli Ramly, Chief Executive Officer, Celcom mentioned, “This collaboration is a significant milestone for Celcom – not only as a showcase of industry collaborations in line with national aspirations but also as a major step towards top-notch customer experience. We are committed to improving our nationwide network for coverage and speeds in the long run and this represents one of many key investments into network quality that Celcom is currently implementing.”
This collaboration between key Malaysian telco industry players is in line with the Government’s call for greater industry partnerships and at the same time promoting healthy competition among the players as service providers will be focusing on delivering improved customer experience and better value offerings, which ultimately will benefit Malaysian consumers.
For further information on TM, visit www.tm.com.my. For more information on Celcom, visit www.celcom.com.my and for more information on DiGi, visit www.digi.com.my.
Tuesday, October 8, 2013
BlackBerry Z30 Celebrates with Celcom in Weekend Carnival
On the morning of 5th October, Celcom welcomed hundreds of BlackBerry Z30 enthusiasts at the iconic Celcom Blue Cube at Sunway Pyramid for an afternoon of carnivalesque treats. The event saw a line of almost 100 individuals by 8am, with its first customer in line at 9:30pm the night before!
An impressive record of 200 BlackBerry Z30 devices was sold within the first three hours of the launch. Not only did the Celcom Blue Cube in Sunway Pyramid witness a resounding attendance of crowds, queues of people were also seen at Celcom’s exclusive partner stores in Wangsa Walk and Alam Sentral.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
天地通委任 NSN 负责巴生谷超快速流动数据服务
NSN 提供 4G 网络基础设施并为 1800 兆赫的 GSM 频段提供频谱重整服务
大马首要流动电讯服务商兼亚通集团有限公司 (Axiata) 独资子公司天地通（Celcom）宣布，与诺基亚解决方案与网络公司 (Nokia Solutions and Networks，NSN) 建立伙伴关系，以便在巴生谷提供 LTE (长期演进)* 解决方案和服务，涵盖吉隆坡和周边郊区。天地通颁发合约给 NSN 以便为其 LTE 服务的 2600 兆赫 (MHz) 和 1800 兆赫频段，提供网络基础设施，以及为其 1800 兆赫的 GSM 频段提供频谱重整服务，以便在多元科技的环境下提供更高的数据处理率和更佳表现，从而增强用户的使用体验。
由于 4G 网络的数据传输速度比 3G 网络快高达十倍，天地通用户在使用视频串流和其它实时线上应用程序等宽频密集型应用程序时，将可享有卓越的流动数据体验。
天地通首席执行员拿督斯里沙查里南利 （Dato’ Sri Shazalli Ramly）表示：“天地通的巴生谷网络升级行动，突显了我们要为我们的用户提供优越服务体验的承诺。随着我们对 LTE 的重大投资，并逐步在全马展开，我们的用户将可日益享受到其成果。NSN 将持续提供高素质的基础设施和服务支援，配合我们的网络发展计划，提供优越的全面覆盖范围和最佳终端用户体验。”
NSN 亚太区高级副总裁保罗泰勒 (Paul Tyler) 示： “此项目是我们在大马与天地通公司的长期良好关系的另一个重要里程碑，我们将继续支持天地通在大马建立迎向未来的通讯基础设施所作的努力。 ”
在这项为期三年的合约下，NSN 将以其屡获殊荣、紧密结合、高容量，以及为 GSM、3G 和 LTE 设计的基站 Flexi Multiradio 10 Base Station，把天地通的整个巴生谷网络转型为 Single RAN (单一无线电接入网络) 系统。此基站使用 NSN 的 NetAct 网络管理系统，能以更简易和具成本效益的方式将基站升级至 LTE，令天地通可完善管理其网络。这项交易也包括智能型自我组织网络 (Self Organizing Network, iSON) 功能，整个无线网络将能自我修复、自我优化和自我配置，从而改善 LTE 网络素质。
NSN 凭借其完善的服务组合，为服务运营商在迈向 LTE 时实现最高的网络质量 。NSN 将为天地通的 1800兆赫 GSM 频段提供频谱重整服务、桌面规划、优先优化服务，以及程序校准、支援及工程的运营服务。
截至今日为止，NSN 已成功交付 LTE 解决方案予 92 位商业客户，包括在先进流动宽频市场例如北欧、日本、韩国和美国的首要客户。
Friday, June 14, 2013
Xperia Tablet Z – Now in Malaysia
• Features same stunning OmniBalance design as Xperia Z
• Reinforces Sony’s intention to be a leading player in the premium Android device market
• Exclusively partners with Celcom to take full advantage of Celcom’s nationwide mobile network and Celcom First plans from 15 June 2013
KUALA LUMPUR, 14 June 2013 – Sony Mobile Communications (“Sony Mobile”) and Celcom Axiata Berhad, the first and foremost mobile telecommunications provider in the country, today announced the local availability of the Xperia Tablet Z – the world’s slimmest* and lightest** water resistant tablet.
Premium Tablet Design
First previewed during the local launch of the Xperia Z back in March, Xperia Tablet Z is the most premium, high performance 10.1” Android tablet available. Built from quality materials and featuring the same stunning OmniBalance design as its smartphone sibling, Xperia Tablet Z is also incredibly slim and lightweight at 6.9mm and 495g.
”Xperia Tablet Z sets new standards in entertainment by matching premium specifications and Sony technology with cross-device connectivity and a consistent user-experience. This device reinforces our intention to be a leading player in the premium Android device market, by building on the principles established by Xperia Z and perfectly optimising them to the tablet form factor,” said Ola Lilja Molén, Head of SEA Markets at Sony Mobile Communications.
Integrated Sony Technology
Xperia Tablet Z includes the very best of Sony technology. With a 10.1” HD WUXGA Display, powered by Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2, it delivers enhanced colour reproduction for a brilliant TV-like viewing experience. It also draws upon Sony’s camera expertise with an 8MP rear camera featuring “Exmor R for mobile” as well as a 2MP HD front-facing camera for capturing the best images in any condition. Sony’s S-Force Front Surround 3D, guarantees soul-shaking audio performance alongside Sony’s Clear Audio+ mode and the innovative use of two in-built speakers with four ‘speaker halls’ on the left and right corners delivers amazing sound no matter how it is held.
Xperia Tablet Z also includes Battery STAMINA mode, Sony’s unique battery management technology that can significantly improve standby time. The WiFi variant also offers up to 64GB of storage with an optional microSD card.
Seamless One-touch Connectivity
Xperia Tablet Z includes more connectivity options than any other tablet. It also includes Sony’s One-Touch functions that let users transfer content seamlessly from HD tablet to TV, tablet to speaker or phone to tablet just by touching them together. One-touch functions are a key component of Sony’s device range this year and no other consumer electronics company is bringing as many NFC-enabled products to market. The tablet’s Universal IR Remote allows users to control the TV and other Sony devices - as well as products from other manufacturers - directly from the tablet placing the device at the heart of the home. TV SideView is a new application that gives users an entirely new way to interact with the TV.****
Sony’s media applications
Sony’s signature media applications - “WALKMAN”, Movies and Album - allow users to enjoy, control and view content regardless of their device.
Xperia Tablet Z Accessories
A number of accessories including a charging cradle, an LCD Screen Protector and Leather Carrying Cover that comes in Black, White or Red will be available at all Sony stores nationwide.
Key features for Xperia Tablet Z
• 10.1” HD 1920x1200p WUXGA Display with Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2
• S-Force Front Surround 3D
• The world's slimmest* design at 6.9 mm and lightest** at 495g for 10.1” water resistant tablet
• Dust and water resistant (IP55 & IP57) with a durable glass front display
• Snapdragon S4 Pro processor with 1.5GHz asynchronous quad CPUs and 2GB RAM
• One-touch connectivity with Near Field Communication (NFC)
• A unique OmniBalance design with subtly rounded edges and smooth reflective surfaces
• 8 MP rear camera featuring “Exmor R for mobile” and Superior Auto plus 2MP HD front camera
• Battery STAMINA mode further improves the standby time.
Xperia Tablet Z will launch on Android 4.1 (Jelly Bean) and is upgradable to 4.2 post launch for the latest Android user experience. Available starting 15 June in LTE and WiFi versions, the Xperia Tablet Z will retail for RM1,999 (LTE/3G) or RM1499 (Wi-Fi).
Celcom is the exclusive service provider to offer the Xperia Tablet Z in conjunction with the launch. Commenting on the partnership, Zalman Aefendy Zainal Abidin, Chief Marketing Officer of Celcom Axiata Berhad said, “Celcom’s network is now 4G LTE-enabled that allows us to cater for the growing number of LTE devices in this country. We are proud to partner with Sony Mobile to offer the Sony Xperia Tablet Z – the very first LTE tablet in Celcom Fastest Territory’s widest, fastest, and stable nationwide mobile network. This partnership further cements our commitment to provide choices to our customers so they can find a device that perfectly suits their ever-evolving digital lifestyles.”
The device will be available from Celcom for as low as RM1,438. Full bundled pricing are as follows, or visit www.celcom.com.my or any Celcom outlet for more information.
* Verified in 10” tablet class at time of announcement.
**Verified in 10” tablet class with water resistance at the time of announcement.
*** In compliance with IP55 and IP57, Xperia Z is protected against the ingress of dust and is water resistant. Provided that all ports and covers are firmly closed, the phone is (i) protected against low pressure jets of water from all practicable directions in compliance with IP55; and/or (ii) can be kept under 1 meter of freshwater for up to 30 minutes in compliance with IP57.
**** TV SideView – can be downloaded from Google Play - service depends on country availability
Thursday, May 23, 2013
IBM Watson At Your Service: New Watson Breakthrough Transforms How Brands Engage Today's Connected Consumers
Top Brands, including Celcom Axiata Berhad, Tap Watson's Ability to Crunch Big Data and Provide Fast, Personalized Responses for Empowered Consumers
PETALING JAYA, 22 MAY 2013 --- IBM today unveiled the IBM Watson Engagement Advisor, a technology breakthrough that allows brands to crunch big data in record time to transform the way they engage clients in key functions such as customer service, marketing and sales.
Now businesses can better serve consumers with a cognitive computing assistant that learns, adapts and understands a company's data quickly and easily, enabling users to have IBM Watson at work quickly, while increasing its knowledge and value over time.
Leading brands from a variety of industries including ANZ, Celcom, IHS, Nielsen and Royal Bank of Canada are exploring how the IBM Watson Engagement Advisor can help them engage with their customers.
"In line with our vision of being the premier mobile operator in Malaysia, Celcom is proud to be a part of the IBM Watson Customer Early Engagement Program," said Dato’ Sri Shazalli Ramly, Chief Executive Officer of Celcom Axiata Berhad, Malaysia’s first and foremost mobile operator and the only telco globally that has achieved 27 quarters of consecutive revenue growth. "Our participation aims to help us harness the power of Watson in analyzing raw data to provide deeper customer insights and preferences in near real time. This will facilitate the delivery of targeted customer offerings, simplify end-user interactions and provide richer customer experiences across our products, services and touch points," he said.
The IBM Watson Engagement Advisor is a first of a kind system designed to help customer-facing personnel assist consumers with deeper insights more quickly than previously possible. Delivered through cloud-delivered services and online chat sessions, IBM Watson will empower a brand's customer service agents to provide fast, data-driven answers, or sit directly in the hands of consumers via mobile device. In one simple click, the solution's "Ask Watson" feature will quickly help address customers' questions, offer feedback to guide their purchase decisions, and troubleshoot their problems.
"We envision Watson to serve as cognitive assistant, adept and quick at making sense of Big Data, that can empower our regional bank advisors to better serve our two million wealth management clients across the region," said Joyce Phillips, CEO Global Wealth and Group Managing Director, Marketing, Innovation and Digital, ANZ Banking Group. "We are pleased to explore with IBM how Watson can enable smarter, faster financial recommendations – yielding a customer experience that is simple, personalized and steeped in data-informed insights."
“Around the globe and across platforms, Nielsen provides insights into what consumers watch and buy—helping marketers engage with their customers in the smartest possible way," said Randall Beard, Global Head, Advertiser Solutions for Nielsen. "Our work with IBM’s Watson is the latest from the Nielsen Innovation Lab, founded to advance research in advertising effectiveness. Watson's unique capacity to uncover insights from Big Data by simply posing a question in natural language is incredibly powerful. Using Watson, we will explore the ways we can help agencies and their client brands more effectively engage with consumers across devices and improve the impact of their advertising and media plans.”
Part of IBM's Smarter Commerce initiative, the newest capabilities of IBM Watson are a natural fit for customer engagement, based on its ability to understand the nuances of human language, process questions akin to the way people think, and quickly cull through vast amounts of big data for relevant, evidence-based responses to its human users' needs.
The rise of the digital consumer has spawned a range of online, mobile and social media commerce trends that require businesses to deepen their interactions with customers and transform the way they provide marketing, sales and service. Consumers expect brands to know them individually, deliver personalized interactions and self service options. Business leaders -- such as chief marketing officers, customer experience leaders and heads of sales -- must transform the way they interact with consumers to build brand loyalty and improve customer service. The key to success: IBM Watson, via cognitive computing intellect, can proactively engage with a business' customers, and continuously learn from interactions, anytime and anywhere, providing fast, more accurate and personalized interactions.
The IBM Watson Engagement Advisor will help companies make their interactions count by knowing, delivering and learning what each customer wants – in the context of their preferences and actions – sometimes before even the customer knows it themselves. Consider these findings:
· Millennial consumers will comprise nearly half of the workforce by 2020 -- using paychecks for major purchases that require top-flight customer service -- from cars to insurance policies.
· There will be more than 10 billion mobile devices by 2016, outpacing the human population.
· An IBM study of 1,700 chief marketing officers (CMOs) reveals that 65 percent of CMOs feel under prepared for the growth of choices that today's empowered consumers have for communications channels, such as smart phones and tablets.
These disruptive forces are empowering consumers and raising their expectations of the entire customer experience. This power shift from the seller to the buyer is redefining the term "commerce." Retailers were the first to face the rising power of consumers, but now companies across a wide array of industries such as telecommunications, financial services and others have begun adapting to these changes.
With the latest IBM Watson debut, IBM is enabling clients to better respond to market shifts in real-time, automate marketing, and transform the way they service their clients, while improving their global brand presence.
"IBM is taking Watson to the masses in ways that positively impact people's lives, from helping doctors improve patient care to helping businesses put consumers first, in an increasingly mobile world," said Manoj Saxena, General Manager, IBM Watson Solutions. "Customer engagement is a natural fit for Watson, which can instantly create a strong bond between who customers are as individuals, and what types of information will help them reach their goals. The end product: users will come away feeling known as people, empowered as consumers, and engaged as satisfied brand ambassadors who are willing to champion the business to friends and family."
This is IBM Watson; How Can I Help You?
For the first time, consumers will be able to tap into the power of IBM Watson for their everyday needs. The IBM Watson Engagement Advisor "Ask Watson" feature greets, and offers help to, customers via any channel, be it through a website chat window or a mobile push alert, saving consumers the hassle of performing searches, combing through websites and forums, or waiting endlessly for a response about the information they need. Calling upon IBM's Big Data Analytics technologies, IBM Watson retrieves data about customers to help ensure interactions are tailored to their needs, and search its corpus of stored information for the best solutions.
Since its television debut, IBM Watson is smarter, faster and smaller -- having gained a 240 percent improvement in system performance, and a reduction in physical requirements by 75 percent. The cognitive computing system can now be run on a single Power 750 server using Linux, transitioning from its original size of a master bedroom to that of four pizza boxes. Businesses that use IBM Watson can have the solution up and running quickly using a cloud computing environment, or deploy the technology on-premise.
IBM Watson transforms the customer service experience
The state of today's customer engagement leaves much room for improvement. 270 billion customer service calls are handled annually, with roughly 50 percent unresolved, which for businesses means an increase in cost per escalated call by three times. In hindsight, 61 percent of those calls could have been resolved with better access to information. It is no surprise that Forrester’s 2012 Customer Experience Index revealed only 37 percent of brands received good or excellent customer experience index scores, while 64 percent received a rating of “OK,” “poor” or “very poor” from their customers.
Making matters more urgent for brands is the imminent spike in Millennial consumers who are expanding their footprint in today's economy, using paychecks for insurance, bank accounts and telecom plans. Their expectations for brands: fast and personalized service on the go, via mobile device.
The IBM Watson Engagement Advisor will also help brands manage their existing customer engagement functions, by reducing burdens faced by call and e-service centers that struggle to keep up with skyrocketing demand.
The move of IBM Watson into customer engagement positions it within IBM's Smarter Commerce initiative, which provides a range of solutions and services to better connect more than 2,000 brands to their increasingly digital customers, accelerating business to the speed of life through intelligent automation.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
LTE is here! Gear Up for Higher Speeds in 2013! MCMC Issues Spectrum for 4G Mobile Broadband in the 2600 MHz Band
Cyberjaya: 5 December, 2012 --- Malaysians may not have to wait much longer to enjoy higher mobile broadband speeds. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has announced the allocation of the much anticipated 2600 MHz spectrum band, paving the way for Malaysians to enjoy 4G services which could offer mobile broadband speeds in excess of 100 Mbps.
The technology promises many news services to consumers such as high definition video streaming, enhanced user experience on real-time applications and better connectivity for mobile and consumer electronic devices.
Since the introduction of 3G and WiMAX technology in Malaysia, the demand for better quality mobile broadband service has intensified. This allocation is in line with similar initiatives in developed countries like the US and some European states. Market readiness for 4G technology is also reaching its maturity as increasingly, many of the latest devices in the global market support the use of this technology; hence the economies of scale will bring much benefit to the country.
Eight (8) companies will be allowed access to the 2600 MHz spectrum band. They are, in alphabetical order, Celcom Axiata Bhd, DiGi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd, Maxis Broadband Sdn Bhd, Packet One Networks (M) Sdn Bhd, Puncak Semangat Sdn Bhd, REDtone Marketing Sdn Bhd, U Mobile Sdn Bhd and YTL Communications Sdn Bhd.
MCMC Chairman Dato’ Mohamed Sharil Tarmizi said, “MCMC is always committed to finding the right balance between the needs of consumers, investors and other stakeholders of the industry. We believe that the balance struck between ensuring healthy competition in the market and promoting industry development will help spur continued growth for existing service providers and provide opportunity for new market entrants.”
Existing service providers may use the 2600 MHz allocation to further expand and enhance the capacity of their mobile broadband networks to meet increasing consumer demands whilst the introduction of a new player is expected to bring fresh ideas and innovation to the market.
Service providers are also expected to enter into smart partnerships and sharing agreements between them which include spectrum and radio access network sharing in order to utilise larger bandwidths, lower the cost of roll out and offer better 4G-experience and affordability to consumers. Additionally, smart partnerships mean shared infrastructure thus reducing the duplication of physical transmission towers. 4G wholesale MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Service) will also be offered to other service providers that do not get access to the allocation.
“With this new technology, the people can look forward to improvements in their digital lifestyle. For the business community, cloud services, teleworking, teleconferencing and video type applications can be better experienced whilst on the move,” said Dato’ Mohamed Sharil.
2.6 GHz Spectrum Allocated to P1
Kuala Lumpur, 6th December 2012 – South East Asia’s leading and one of the world’s first 4G service provider, Packet One Networks (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (“P1”) has been allocated the access to 2.6 GHz spectrum by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
Michael Lai, CEO of P1 said, “We are thrilled to have been granted access to 20MHz of 2.6 GHz TD spectrum, and we thank the government, our Ministry and MCMC for their confidence in P1. Being one of the pioneers in the 4G world, we are definitely excited to be able to offer this next generation of 4G technology to Malaysians.”
“Being one of the Steering Committee Members of the Global TD-LTE Initiative (GTI), we are excited to be able to serve our subscribers with the 4G Time-Division Long-Term Evolution (TD-LTE) technology. Our subscribers will be among the first to taste and experience the latest 4G LTE technology. Continuing our mission of “Broadband for All”, this spectrum allocation will allow us to continue our commitment in bringing cutting-edge broadband technology to every single Malaysian. And simultaneously, contribute to our national broadband agenda and initiative,” he elaborated.
“We are ready for this, and we look forward to serving our customers even better with complete range of services from 4G wireless, Fiber, SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) services and wireless internet leased line,” Lai added.
U MOBILE AWARDED LTE SPECTRUM
Kuala Lumpur, 6th December, 2012 - U Mobile Sdn Bhd, Malaysia’s most dynamic and innovative telco service provider, is pleased to be awarded a 20MHz block of the 2.6GHz spectrum by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
In a letter issued by MCMC yesterday, it was outlined that U Mobile was awarded a spectrum block which the company notes as strategic.
“The position of our block of spectrum is strategic in that it provides U Mobile with the option of sharing spectrum and possibly collaborating through smart partnerships with other telcos,” said Jaffa Sany Ariffin, U Mobile CEO. “By sharing spectrum we would hope to benefit from reduced rollout costs and pass those savings onto our consumers.”
Jaffa added, “When LTE services are commercially available, the benefit will be an enriching and exciting mobile experience for our customers and it will undoubtedly bring significant change to the way we experience mobile communication services. We thank the MCMC for awarding us the spectrum and we look forward to providing our customers with even faster mobile internet services.”
The allocation of the 2.6GHz spectrum blocks by MCMC to eight telecommunications players signifies the next phase of the evolution of mobile internet in Malaysia, as it provides the gateway for 4G or Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technology.
Through its LTE services, U Mobile will aim to provide an even better value proposition to its customers with improved technology delivering mobile internet with speeds up to 100 Mbps, better smartphones and applications.
As a result of the spectrum allocation, U Mobile is well placed to play its role in assisting the Government in achieving its national agenda to provide high speed mobile data services for all Malaysians.
To get the latest updates on U Mobile products and services, please visit www.u.com.my.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
TM Forum’s Customer Experience Management Summit Helps Service Providers Put Customers at the Heart of the Business
Experts from Celcom Axiata Berhad, Dialog Axiata, Globe Telecom, Oracle, Tune Talk and more deliver strategies to exceed customer expectations, enable vibrant, open ecosystem
SINGAPORE/MALAYSIA - November 26, 2012: Today, Asia is widely considered one of the major growth markets for the communications industry and as a result, service providers are saturating the region with their offerings. While many are focused on capturing new subscribers’ attention, they need to shift their mindset beyond customer attraction and transform their relationships through strategic customer experience management (CEM) programs in order to maintain those customers and increase long-term revenue. To help service providers understand the key facets of CEM, TM Forum, a global, non-profit industry association with over 130 members across Asia, opens the doors tomorrow to its Customer Experience Management Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, where 30 speakers will address attendees from across Asia.
TM Forum’s Customer Experience Management Summit, which runs from Nov. 27-28 at the Prince Hotel, features a stellar line-up of CEM expert keynotes from Celcom Axiata Berhad; Dialog Axiata PLC; Globe Telecom, Inc.; Oracle Corp.; and Tune Talk Sdn Bhd. These speakers will explore how in today’s experience-driven market, a seamless and sustainable customer experience is vital and goes beyond network coverage and adequate customer service to include customer loyalty programs, social media interaction and more
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TM Forum chose Kuala Lumpur as the location for the Customer Experience Management Summit not only because of Asia’s reputation as a growth market, but also because of its strong technology, Banking, Financial Services and Insurance (BFSI) and retail sectors. Indeed, TM Forum’s Summit addresses how all types of businesses can put the customer at the heart of their strategy by understanding their expectations and behaviors.
Jason Lo, CEO of Tune Talk, Malaysia’s fastest growing Mobile Virtual Network Operator, and one of the Customer Experience Management Summit keynote speakers, stresses the importance of CEM in the region. “The proliferation of smartphones and the surge of mobile broadband in Asia have created opportunities for over-the-top players to aggressively compete with mobile operators for consumer loyalty,” he says. “In order to remain relevant, service providers need to reevaluate their CEM strategies to focus on the full picture—including customer service, network performance, using big data to understand customer preferences, and targeting customers with services based on their usage patterns. Strategic CEM is crucial to success in Asia, where customer loyalty could be a real game changer.”
Aileen Smith, chief operating officer, TM Forum, agrees that the focus on CEM is an absolute necessity in the current competitive environment. “Subscribers are attracted to differentiating factors that sets one service provider apart from the rest. Historically, if the relationship with the provider is good, customers stay with that provider,” she says. “But today, proactive retention of customers, loyalty programs and mobile broadband performance for increased social media interaction, video and web browsing are all key elements in establishing a successful CEM strategy. Our Customer Experience Management Summit serves as a platform for all the players in the ecosystem to discuss challenges in customer management and develop strategies to move forward.”
According to Smith, CEM is one of the key elements for success in the new digital economy, and this summit is an important part of how TM Forum is working to provide guidance, best practices and practical tools that help businesses effectively deliver enterprise-grade digital services in complex environments. As a result, on Dec. 4, TM Forum will launch Frameworx 12.5, the latest update to its suite of best practices and standards, which includes important CEM tools such as a Customer Experience Maturity Model and Customer Experience Management Index. These tools ultimately help service providers build stronger CEM programs and measure their CEM efforts overall.
About TM Forum:
TM Forum is a global, non-profit industry association focused on enabling service provider agility and innovation. As an established thought-leader in service creation, management and delivery, the Forum serves as a unifying force across industries, enabling more than 900 member companies worldwide to solve critical business issues through access to a wealth of knowledge, intellectual capital and standards.
The Forum provides a unique, fair and safe environment for the entire value-chain to collaborate and overcome the barriers to a vibrant, open digital economy, helping member companies of all sizes gain a competitive edge by enabling efficiency and agility in their IT and operations. For more information about TM Forum, visit www.tmforum.org.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Tune Talk Flying High
KUALA LUMPUR, 10 December 2011- Tune Talk Malaysia’s fastest growing mobile prepaid service announced its achievement to be part of ‘The Malaysia Book of Records’ today at Stadium Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur.
The hot air balloon launched by Tune Talk had been endorsed by The Malaysia Book of records as 'The Biggest Sim Card shaped hot air balloon' in Malaysia with the size of approximately 100 feet tall and it can accomodate 3 adults at one time and also a pilot.
Present at the ceremony today was Mr Jason Lo, CEO of Tune Talk Sdn Bhd and Datuk Danny Ooi, Founder of The Malaysian Book of Records.
Jason said “Our Super Sim is our icon for a reason - It stands for excellence in quality of service for our 3G Data, Voice and SMS, for technological innovation of our product, for thinking big, not following the norm, for challenging the big boys and playing them at their own game. The most important thing, for listening to our customers and staying one step ahead of their needs. This Super Sim is now larger than life and takes to flight as we showcase our icon high above the Malaysian skies. As our coverage is that of Celcoms, we too now mark our territory above the rest.”
“And now we have the Biggest Billboard in Malaysia at 100 feet high. It can also fly so is mobile and will be in your neighborhood soon so if u see a giant Sim card in the sky, come on over for a ride. Join us as we take you high and above the rest. Literally!!” he added.
The hot air balloon will be going to a few states starting from middle December, so do not miss the change for a ride with our Super Sim!
Thursday, September 1, 2011
YTL COMMUNICATIONS APPOINTS NEW CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER
Experienced marketeer to spearhead sales and marketing activities for Yes 4G Mobile Internet with Voice service
KUALA LUMPUR — August 12, 2011 —YTL Communications, the world’s first operator with a fully converged mobile 4G network, today announced the appointment of Mr. Chee Pok Jin as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).
In this capacity, Mr. Chee will oversee the overall sales and marketing as well as product development activities including portfolios in advertising, public and media relations, customer retention, digital and experiential marketing.
“We are tremendously delighted to have Mr. Chee on board. He is a seasoned marketing professional who brings a great deal of sales, marketing, branding, and project development experience to YTL Communications. As we look forward to bring more innovation and positive change to Malaysians through Yes, Mr. Chee will serve as a valuable resource and leader to position our services and value propositions to an expanding customer base,” said Wing K. Lee, CEO of YTL Communications.
Mr. Chee has more than 30 years of working experience in retail operations, brand management, technology and consumer sales and distributions, marketing, IT and corporate affairs experience garnered from various industries ranging from FMCG, banking as well as telecommunications both local and abroad. Mr. Chee joins YTL Communications after a successful tenure at Celcom Axiata Berhad where he was the COO of New Business before assuming the role as the CMO.
As the COO of Celcom, Mr. Chee drove Mobile Broadband as a new, successful business for the company. He led the sales team to create new distribution channels, simplified pricing and communications plan. He also turned Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO) into a profitable venture making Celcom the most successful Service Provider in MVNO deployment.
In his capacity as the CMO, he developed a full fledge Customer Lifecycle Management (CLM) Division to focus on sales and after sales business management in a holistic view. He also deployed an effective Partnership Program with the Blackberry Smartphone manufacturer, RIM, and made Celcom the most preferred Blackberry carrier in the country.
Prior to his stint in Celcom, Mr. Chee was the COO in PT Mobile-8 Telecom Tbk in Indonesia, CMO in DiGi, Senior GM in Harpers Trading, Head of Marketing and Product Management in Maxis, Head of Sales in Citibank and Director of Sales – Singapore and Malaysia for Procter & Gamble.
“I am very excited to be a part of YTL Communications and to lead the marketing efforts of one of the most advanced mobile Internet networks in the world. YTL is a brand that has a rich tradition of innovation and excellence. It is an honour to continue this tradition at YTL Communications with Yes. With an excellent team behind me, I look forward to delivering positive change and engage with our customers who are now familiar with the consistency, performance and value that the Yes brand brings” said Mr. Chee.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Celcom & Samsung launching Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1
Why another Mobile Tablet?
10 Great Reasons to Own the Sassy Samsung GALAXY Tab 10.1
KUALA LUMPUR, 19 August 2011 – Samsung Malaysia Electronics (SME) Sdn. Bhd., a leading mobile phone manufacturer proudly announced the arrival of the most anticipated and world’s thinnest tablet, the GALAXY Tab 10.1 in the local market today.
Thinner than a pencil, the Samsung GALAXY Tab 10.1 measures at an ultra-slim 8.6 millimeters, and also boasts an incredibly light weight of just 565 grams, ensuring outstanding mobility and comfort in the user’s hand. The device also includes a brilliant 10.1-inch touch screen display with WXGA 1280 x 800 resolution delivering vibrant colors and crisp clarity. This expansive screen is centered inside a narrow bezel to enhance the wide viewing angle.
“The Samsung GALAXY Tab 10.1 is a remarkable example of Samsung’s constant innovation, demonstrating our dedication to designing products of the highest standard, ensuring they fit the unique needs of the technology-savvy Malaysian audience,” said Kwon Jae Hoon, Managing Director, Samsung Malaysia Electronics. “We have combined our innovations in design and display with an intuitive user experience, creating a new class of products that will lead the tablet market.”
In this electronic world of convenience, adaptability and mobility, PCs have given ways to laptops, which is now slowly giving way to tablet computers. Strategy Analytics reports that global tablet shipments had soared 331% annually in Q2 2011. Tablet computers are here to stay.
All around the world, people are waiting to get their hands on the one gadget that will transform the PC market altogether. This is where the Samsung GALAXY Tab 10.1 takes its place. In a world where people demand for faster, smoother, slimmer and more powerful devices with more possibilities on the go, the Samsung GALAXY Tab 10.1 is set to revolutionise your world!
