Connecting the Dots: EDOTCO, MDEC, and Boost Set the Stage for Malaysia’s Digital Breakthrough

In the ever-evolving landscape of digitalisation, Malaysia is stepping up its game. The recent partnership between EDOTCO, Malaysia’s leading telecommunications infrastructure provider, and the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) marks a significant leap forward in the country’s digital journey.

Facilitated by the Minister of Digital, Yang Berhormat Gobind Singh Deo, this collaboration aims to not only enhance the digital infrastructure but also bridge the urban-rural divide, bringing next-generation connectivity to all corners of the nation.

EDOTCO & MDEC: Propelling Malaysia to New Digital Heights

At the heart of this partnership is a shared vision to bolster Malaysia’s digital economy. EDOTCO, with its portfolio of 58,000 towers across nine countries, is positioned to support the nation’s digital transformation. The company’s collaboration with MDEC focuses on providing expert advisory services and preferential rates for next-generation digital infrastructure to Malaysia Digital Status companies. This move is set to revolutionise how businesses and communities interact with technology, driving innovation and growth nationwide.

The collaboration is a testament to Malaysia’s commitment to building a future-ready digital economy. As an infrastructure ecosystem partner, EDOTCO will play a pivotal role in creating a reliable foundation for digital growth. This includes providing 4G and 5G in-building connectivity, deploying low-orbit satellites, and offering sustainable smart city solutions. These efforts will ensure that both urban and rural communities have access to the advanced connectivity needed to thrive in the digital age.

Elevating Communities: Boost Joins in the Party for Financial Inclusion Partnership

But the partnership with MDEC is just one piece of the puzzle. EDOTCO’s collaboration with Boost, a homegrown fintech leader, is set to address but equally important aspect of digital inclusion. The Tower Landowner Credit Access initiative, a first-of-its-kind programme, aims to provide financial stability to over 2,200 landowners with existing tenancy agreements with EDOTCO. This initiative is particularly groundbreaking as it targets individuals who are often unbanked or unbanked, offering them simplified access to credit.

The first phase of this initiative focuses on supporting SME tower landowners, with plans to expand to individuals in the coming months. By leveraging tenancy agreements, EDOTCO and Boost are opening new avenues for financial empowerment, reinforcing their commitment to fostering an inclusive financial environment.

Minister’s Continued Focus: Uniting Malaysia’s Cyberspace

In his keynote address at the MoU signing ceremony, Yang Berhormat Gobind Singh Deo highlighted the importance of these partnerships in advancing Malaysia’s digital agenda. He emphasised that the collaboration with MDEC would enhance sectors such as digital agriculture, digital cities, and digital tourism, ensuring that communities within the Malaysia Digital ecosystem have the infrastructure support necessary to drive innovation and growth.

“The MoU with MDEC leverages EDOTCO’s digital infrastructure expertise to support Malaysia Digital ecosystems, enhancing sectors that are critical for national growth,” said Gobind. “This partnership is designed to ensure that Malaysia is not just keeping up but leading the charge in digital innovation, bridging the urban-rural divide, and positioning the country as a leader in the digital age.”

He also applauded the partnership with Boost, noting its alignment with the government’s goal of promoting digital inclusion and financial participation, especially in underserved communities. “The Tower Landowner Credit Access initiative is a perfect example of how we can leverage digital solutions to create a more inclusive economy,” Gobind added.

The Turning Point: A Milestone in Malaysia’s Digital Transformation

These strategic partnerships are not just about infrastructure and financial empowerment; they represent a significant milestone in Malaysia’s digital transformation journey. By combining EDOTCO’s infrastructure capabilities with MDEC’s digital ecosystem expertise and Boost’s financial technology, Malaysia is creating a digital ecosystem that is robust, inclusive, and future-ready.

Mahadhir Aziz, CEO of MDEC, expressed his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “MDEC is thrilled to partner with EDOTCO in this milestone. Their proven track record in digital infrastructure makes them the ideal partner in empowering Malaysia’s innovators. With over 20,000 towers across the nation, EDOTCO is well-equipped to support the rapid employment of infrastructure essential for growing Malaysia’s digital economy.”

On the other hand, Sheyantha Abeykoon, Group CEO of Boost, emphasised the importance of financial inclusion in driving economic growth. “The partnership with EDOTCO exemplifies our commitment to providing simplified access to finance for those in need. By integrating our holistic fintech solutions, we support essential financial needs for the underserved, fostering economic growth within these communities,” he said.

Moving Forward: A Connected Malaysia

As Malaysia moves forward in its digital journey, these partnerships underscore the critical role of collaboration in achieving national digital goals. With EDOTCO, MDEC, and Boost at the forefront, Malaysia is not just catching up with the digital wave but is poised to lead it. This is more than just about infrastructure or financial access; it’s about building a connected Malaysia where everyone can participate in and benefit from the digital economy.

In the words of Adlan Tajudin, Group CEO of EDOTCO, “These collaborations are pivotal in driving Malaysia’s digital economy forward. We are committed to fostering inclusive growth as we build a stronger, more connected Malaysia.”