DNB chief executive officer Datuk Azman Ismail.
PETALING JAYA: Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) has inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with telecommunications company Ericsson to further advance the digital transformation of the country via 5G and its technology.
In a statement, DNB said its network will integrate with the global Application Programming Interface network system, enabling developers to integrate functionalities from other applications, thus simplifying and accelerating the development process.
DNB chief executive officer Datuk Azman Ismail said the collaboration marks a pivotal moment, particularly for the enterprise sector.
“By combining DNB’s expertise in 5G deployment with Ericsson’s global leadership in connectivity, we are strengthening Malaysia’s position as a digital economy leader, powering innovation across key sectors such as manufacturing, healthcare and agriculture,” he said.
Among the key areas of collaboration include 5G connections in strategic areas, including industrial zones. This will enable an enhanced differentiated connectivity services to support businesses.
“The partnership will also create a space for future-ready solutions, by driving the development of cutting-edge applications through partnerships with solution providers, developers and academia,” DNB said.
Furthermore, the collaboration will also integrate AI-powered energy optimisation tools to maximise energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact and pave the way for diverse Internet of Things applications, leveraging on Reduced Capability and wearables technologies.
“The partnership will also focus on bolstering network security and resilience. By implementing advanced security measures, DNB and Ericsson will help safeguard Malaysia’s digital infrastructure against evolving cyber threats, ensuring a secure and reliable 5G ecosystem.
“By harnessing Ericsson’s 5G Advanced technology and expertise, we are setting the stage for groundbreaking innovations that will unlock new opportunities and drive Malaysia’s economic growth,” Ericsson Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh head David Hagerbro said.
Ericsson also announced another collaboration with telecommunications firm CelcomDigi Bhd. The duo signed an MoU to accelerate digital transformation in the oil and gas (O&G) sector.
CelcomDigi said through its newly established 5G Standalone (SA) test lab, both parties will develop and deploy 5G use cases. The focus will be on deploying 5G solutions to improve worker safety and hazard detection in high-risk environments as well as utilising 5G tech to optimise operational efficiency.
“5G will also empower O&G operations with real-time data analytics and automation for seamless decision-making and deliver connectivity to support critical functions and industrial applications,” CelcomDigi said.
Chief executive officer Albern Murthy said the key to unlocking the full potential of 5G-AI lies in strong industry partnerships.
“Collaborations like this allow us to co-create meaningful solutions that go beyond technology, directly addressing industry challenges and transforming operations.
“We look forward to shaping a safer, more efficient and future-ready O&G sector, as well as accelerating 5G adoption across industries as we continue to drive the nation’s development into a 5G-AI digital society,” he noted.
Additionally, Hagerbro said the collaboration is a strategic leap towards digital transformation and he remains committed towards ensuring that Malaysia remains at the forefront of digital innovation.
“Our partnership in the O&G sector will drive real-time solutions in terms of enhanced efficiency, safety and digitalising operations that will redefine how industries operate in the country.”
Meanwhile, edotco Malaysia also said it signed a series of MoUs with DNB, U Mobile, CelcomDigi and Avealto.
For DNB, edotco will look to establish Langkawi as the first 5G-enabled digital tourism hub, while the partnership with U Mobile will accelerate the rollout of 5G In-Building Coverage.
As for CelcomDigi, it will look at implementing Net Zero Towers and for Avealto, a high-altitude connectivity solution will be explored.
edotco group chief executive officer Adlan Tajudin said the collaboration with industry ladders will accelerate the deployment of 5G while ensuring connectivity is inclusive, sustainable and future-proof.
“As the national digital infrastructure partner, we are committed to leveraging our expertise, innovation and strategic partnerships to create transformative opportunities for businesses and consumers nationwide.
“These partnerships mark a defining moment in Malaysia’s digital transformative journey towards a connected, resilient future for all.”