As ASEAN’s digital economy grows rapidly, an increasing number of fintechs—from across Asia and other international markets—are moving to tap into its potential. But for those entering the market, it’s critical to recognise that the region’s fintech ecosystem is evolving swiftly, and that winning in this increasingly sophisticated market will require more than product innovation alone.

Foundational infrastructure decisions—around compute, connectivity, and compliance—are emerging as core determinants of success. Though often invisible to end users, these capabilities are increasingly visible in business outcomes: Speed, trust, uptime, and the ability to scale AI securely and cost-effectively. Together, they could help determine which fintechs unlock ASEAN’s full potential—and which fail to gain traction.

Fintech's Momentum Is Real—But Pressure Points Are Emerging

The past few years have seen Asia Pacific emerge as one of the world’s most dynamic fintech markets. By the end of this year, the region is projected to capture 47% of the global fintech market, reaching a value of US$1.9 trillion (total transaction volumes), according to IBS Intelligence. This pace of growth is drawing interest from both regional players and global fintechs looking to enter and expand.

At the same time, pressure is mounting across multiple fronts—a reality new entrants must address.

Funding has slowed significantly, forcing fintechs to shift focus from growth at all costs to profitability and capital efficiency. Southeast Asia’s fintech sector recorded a 23% drop in funding in 2024, compared to 2023—coming on the back of a 75% decline between 2022 and 2023, shows data from Tracxn.

Regulatory challenges are intensifying, too. KPMG’s Exploring the Fintech Frontier report reveals that 46% of Asian fintech leaders cited increased regulatory scrutiny from both regulators and strategic partners as a major trend shaping the future of the sector. Meanwhile, customer expectations continue to rise, particularly around real-time service, personalisation, and trust.

Challenging Times for the Region’s Fintech Sector

Funding is Slowing   Source:Tracxn

Regulations are Tightening 46% Of Asian fintechs expect increased regulatory scrutiny from regulators and business partners Source:KPMG

These hurdles aren’t slowing down fintechs in the region, who remain focused on scaling. According to The Future of Fintech in APAC report, market expansion and product/service innovation are the top two strategic priorities for fintech leaders.

However, this momentum is exposing serious stress points in the infrastructure that underpins B2B and B2C fintech service delivery. For example, AI adoption is expanding across fraud detection, credit decision-making, and customer experience use cases—yet many fintechs lack access to the scalable compute needed to support these models. Likewise, real-time services such as cross-border payments and instant settlement depend on ultra-low latency, and high uptime—capabilities that are often constrained by legacy networks or less-than-optimal connectivity choices.

These forces are converging—and placing infrastructure at the centre of strategic discussions.

Compute Power Is the New Currency—Are You Spending It Right?

AI is an active force shaping customer experiences, operational decisions, and competitive positioning. Recent research shows that 82% of fintechs view AI and machine learning as critical to achieving short-term business goals. However, realising the promise of AI requires more than algorithms; it demands reliable access to high-performance core and edge compute infrastructure, specifically GPU environments optimised for training and inference.

Fintechs looking to capitalise on the ASEAN opportunity face choices—and critical constraints—in accessing this infrastructure. Most public cloud platforms, for example, offer limited control over the physical location of this infrastructure, resulting in non-compliance with regional data localisation mandates. On the other hand, building in-house GPU clusters is capital-intensive and operationally complex. For fintechs, the challenge is clear: How do they scale AI within regulatory boundaries, while maintaining cost-efficiency and performance?

Emerging models such as GPU-as-a-Service—offered by TM Global through sovereign, LEED-certified data centres—provide a strategic alternative. TM Global’s infrastructure offers elastic GPU capacity with low-latency edge delivery, compliance with data sovereignty regulations, and flexible charging models—enabling fintechs to pursue AI strategies without compromising cost, control, or compliance.

Connectivity is a Catalyst for Fintech Success

Responsiveness is fundamental to fintech operations everywhere—but it’s especially critical in ASEAN, where widespread digital adoption has led to higher customer expectations. Whether enabling instant payments, powering algorithmic trading platforms, or supporting real-time LendTech decisions, low-latency, and highly reliable connectivity is no longer optional—it’s foundational to service delivery, customer trust, and growth in market share.

As fintechs offer more cross-border services and embed themselves deeper into financial ecosystems, the demand for high-performance connectivity and networking is only intensifying. Cross-border payments and FX settlement require low latency and intelligent routing. Wealth Tech firms rely on high-throughput connectivity to aggregate market data and deliver personalised investment recommendations. Fintech platforms delivering embedded finance solutions increasingly depend on direct peering to reduce network hops and accelerate API exchanges with banks, payment gateways, and other critical players in the financial services ecosystem.

Meeting these expectations requires connectivity and networking infrastructure designed for speed, reliability and agility. Future-focused fintechs will increasingly turn to dedicated network architectures that combine SD-WAN with its intelligent path optimisation, direct peering with TM IP Transit Internet exchanges, and high-capacity backhaul that connects national fibre networks to core data centre and international subsea routes.

TM Global’s connectivity and network solutions—anchored by Malaysia’s widest fibre footprint, direct peering with 120+ ISPs, strategically placed edge nodes, data solution offerings, and international subsea connectivity—deliver performance, dynamic failover, and regulatory compliance; capabilities that are essential for fintechs entering the ASEAN market to compete effectively.

Compliant Infrastructure is a Strategic Enabler

Infrastructure decisions are now being shaped as much by regulators as by architects. In markets like Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia, compliance mandates increasingly govern not just where data is stored—but how infrastructure is operated and secured. Regulatory expectations now extend to operational resilience, third-party dependencies, and environmental sustainability—creating additional layers of accountability for fintechs.

Fintechs today are not just seeking compliance—they're seeking confidence.

TM Global delivers that confidence with infrastructure engineered for regulatory alignment, supporting fintechs in meeting the full spectrum of requirements across data sovereignty, operational resilience, industry regulations, and environmental mandates. Its facilities are Tier III-certified by the Uptime Institute and hold accreditations including ISO/IEC 27001 (information security), ISO 22301 (business continuity), and PCI DSS. With in-country hosting, and intelligent failover, TM Global enables fintechs to operate confidently—not just in compliance with the law, but in alignment with future regulations.

As regional and global fintechs prepare to expand in ASEAN, they will need to navigate local regulations and meet rising expectations for seamless, hyper-personalised customer experiences. The ability to execute these priorities at scale will depend on an invisible foundation: Digital infrastructure that enables high-performance compute, seamless connectivity, and built-in compliance.

TM Global helps fintechs building a footprint in ASEAN create that foundation—supporting them with sovereign, AI-ready, and regulation-aligned data centre and connectivity infrastructure that’s built to supercharge what comes next.

To learn how TM Global can support your infrastructure strategy, get in touch with us.

At Capacity Europe 2025, we strengthened our partnerships with global players across Europe and the surrounding regions, working together to unlock new opportunities and deliver smarter connectivity for our customers.

Led by our Executive Vice President of TM Global, Khairul Liza Ibrahm, our delegation — joined by TM Group CEO, Amar Huzaimi Md Deris, Vice President of International Sales, Baharul Nizam Said Daliman, and our UK Regional Office team which is based in London, engaged with partners and customers to co-create solutions that enhance network performance, scalability, and reliability in today’s AI-driven digital landscape.

Our focus remained on connecting ecosystems and enabling our partners to expand seamlessly into high-growth markets, powered by TM Global’s robust infrastructure and trusted global reach.

We were also proud to be shortlisted for the Global Connectivity Awards as Best Asia-Pacific Connectivity Provider, a recognition that reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering innovation, quality, and value to our customers worldwide.

As we continue to grow our presence globally, we remain dedicated to building partnerships that empower growth and shape the future of connectivity, together.

TM Global participated in the Malaysia Cloud & Datacenter Convention 2025, held at the Connexion Conference and Event Centre in Bangsar South. Themed “Sustainability in Action: Building Malaysia’s Data Centers of Tomorrow,” the event, which was organized by W.Media, attracted more than 1,500 attendees from the cloud, data center and digital infrastructure industries.

At the convention, TM Global set up a booth showcasing its data center model and infrastructure map, offering visitors a closer look at the company’s nationwide digital backbone. With TM Global’s interconnected data centers, we are well-positioned to enable faster access and lower latency through our Edge Facilities, safeguarded by a 9-layer security architecture. Together, these capabilities unlock opportunities for smarter, more connected experiences powered by AI, IoT, and real-time analytics.

In addition, TM Nxera showcased its upcoming AI-powered Data Center Campus in Johor, designed to support hyperscale workloads while prioritizing energy efficiency and intelligent operations. Mahathir Said, Chief Executive Officer of TM Nxera, participated in a panel session titled “From Overflow to Epicenter: Navigating Malaysia’s Data Center Investment Surge”.

The event provided TM Global with a valuable opportunity to connect with industry stakeholders, share insights, and reinforce its commitment to building sustainable, future-ready infrastructure for Malaysia’s growing digital economy.

TM Global marked another milestone in strengthening regional presence at Data Centre World Asia 2025, held in Singapore from 8 to 9 October 2025.

Together with TM Singapore and TM Nxera, we showcased our interconnected data centre ecosystem, built on our robust fibre backbone and extensive global submarine cable network, enabling businesses to scale seamlessly across Asia and beyond.

As part of our continuous expansion, we are future-proofing our facilities with an additional 10MW at our core data centres; Klang Valley Data Centre (KVDC) and Iskandar Puteris Data Centre (IPDC) respectively, reinforcing our capacity to support the surging demand for AI and cloud workloads across the region.

Leading the engagement were our VP of Data Centre, Syahrir Nizam Jalis, Hazrilhasnie Hashim, Vice President of Product & Marketing, as well as Mahathir Said, CEO of TM Nxera, who also shared his insights as a panel speaker on “The Evolution in Data Centre Networking “. The booth was manned by our team led by Elvin Tan, Country Director of TM Singapore.

This participation in one of the region’s important data centre conferences reflects our ongoing commitment to powering Asia’s digital future through end-to-end infrastructure and connectivity solutions that deliver reliability, scalability, and sustainability — reinforcing our role as a strategic partner in the region’s digital growth. 

As the global economy becomes more interdependent, the importance of cross-border digital infrastructure is at a critical juncture. From allowing easy access to the cloud to energizing digital ecosystems across continents, the future will be with the organizations that lightly interconnect regions with speed, reliability, and intelligence. TM Global is at the centre of this mission. TM Global is the international and wholesale arm of Telekom Malaysia (TM), and is dedicated to building more intelligent pathways throughout Asia, the Americas, the Middle East, and Europe.

At TM Global, our mission is to bring the world together through extraordinary connectivity–connecting the unconnected in bold new ways. TM Global is the global and wholesale business division of Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM), one of Southeast Asia’s premier combined telco and technology providers. Our breadth of terrestrial and submarine cable networks across more than 30 submarine cable systems, our complementary partnerships, and the team’s skills position TM Global to drive global connectivity successfully. Our heritage of terabits of connectivity gives us a unique perspective and competitive positioning amongst a myriad of potential competitors.

To help achieve this goal, TM Global provides hundreds of connections across the globe with substantial access to our network of undersea cables with interconnections in more than 20 countries. This combined connectivity approach provides a significant number of value-added services (VAS) as part of a larger bundle of connectivity, data, content, and platform services to to carriers, hyperscalers, OTTs and multinationals.

With the advent of the digital economy, TM Global is focused on increasing not just connectivity but also empowering our partners with secure, scalable and intelligent interconnectivity for your digital ecosystem, which allows them to bridge the market-divides and fully capture the potential of digital transformation, as we go east (Asia) and west (rest-of-the-World).

What are TM Global’s key offerings? How do you use AI ML to improve the overall infrastructure and cybersecurity to posture TM’s solutions?

• Our core offerings include extensive international connectivity via submarine cables, a growing portfolio of edge and LEED certified hyperscale data centres, and our latest milestone which is Malaysia’s first sovereign GPU-as-a-Service platform.
• Across the Group, AI and ML are increasingly embedded in our operations to strengthen network performance, enhance customer experience, and bolster cybersecurity. A good example is our Conversational AI solution, which is transforming customer engagement in healthcare, retail, and finance sectors.
• The solution uses advanced ML to handle voice, text, and digital queries, automating tasks like appointment booking and inquiries, which significantly improves service efficiency.
• We have also launched an AI-powered chatbot last year to streamline operations and boost internal productivity. The chatbot enables our frontliners to pinpoint issues, resolve them swiftly and enhance customer experiences with data-driven insights.

TM Global recently hosted a highly impactful Tech Day focusing on GPU-as-a-Service and AI solutions. From your perspective as the U.S. Country Director, what does this event signal about TM Global’s ambitions in the AI and GPU infrastructure space?

• TM Global’s Tech Day in Kuala Lumpur earlier this year brought together industry leaders, government stakeholders, and technology innovators to spotlight our latest milestone: Malaysia’s first sovereign GPU-as-a-Service platform.
• Having served as the TM USA Country Director and now overseeing sales across multiple global regions, Tech Day demonstrates Malaysia’s strategic readiness to serve as a trusted digital hub, especially as global players look for scalable, sovereign, and secure GPU infrastructure.

Southeast Asia’s digital economy is evolving rapidly. How do you see TM Global contributing to this transformation, particularly in enabling AI adoption, data sovereignty, and regional innovation at scale?

• TM through TM Global is accelerating Southeast Asia’s digital transformation with the launch of Malaysia’s first sovereign GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS) empowering enterprises and public sector organisations to develop and deploy AI models without the burden of heavy upfront investment.
• Our GPUaaS is designed with flexibility at its core, allowing customers to tailor their AI environment by selecting the specific components they need—space, hardware, GPU chips, and connectivity—based on evolving workloads and business priorities.
• We are building scalable, AI-ready infrastructure through our upcoming TM Nxera data centre in Johor, offering 64MW of capacity, expandable up to 200MW. This is complemented by a network of core and edge data centres strategically located in Klang Valley, Iskandar Puteri, and Seberang Jaya, supporting latency-sensitive AI applications such as smart city analytics, cloud gaming, and real-time processing.
• Our infrastructure is backed by a hyper connected high-speed nationwide fibre and diversified DC-to-DC connectivity, enabling seamless integration not only across TM-owned data centres but also with third-party facilities. This allows businesses to scale flexibly, across multiple environments, without compromising on performance.
• Hosted entirely within Malaysia, our facilities ensure data sovereignty, regulatory compliance, and robust security—meeting the needs of highly regulated industries and enabling AI innovation that’s both scalable and secure.

The concept of GPU-as-a-Service is becoming crucial for scalable AI. Can you elaborate on how TM’s GPUaaS is positioned to support enterprises, especially those needing real-time AI capabilities across borders?

• TM’s GPUaaS is purpose-built to meet the rising demand for scalable, high-performance AI computing—particularly for enterprises requiring real-time capabilities across borders. Hosted in TM’s Uptime Institute Tier III-certified data centres and powered by industry-leading NVIDIA GPU technology, our platform delivers low-latency, high-throughput performance while upholding data sovereignty and regulatory compliance.
• As mentioned earlier, flexibility is a key design principle of our GPUaaS offering. By eliminating the need for heavy upfront capital investment, it provides modular, on-demand access to advanced GPU resources. Customers can customise their setup—choosing from space, hardware, GPU chips, and TM-provided connectivity—to meet specific workload and business requirements.
• This flexibility is further enhanced by TM Global’s nationwide fibre network and edge computing facilities, enabling seamless integration between compute and connectivity for latency-sensitive AI applications. These include AI avatars for public services, real-time diagnostics and predictive modelling in healthcare, autonomous vehicle systems with split-second navigation and many more —all powered by on-demand, modular access to high-performance GPU resources.
• Modular and borderless, TM Global’s GPUaaS enables enterprises to scale AI workloads efficiently, whether locally or regionally, while maintaining full control over their data—a critical advantage in today’s compliance-driven landscape.

With TM Global’s infrastructure being anchored in Malaysia, how does your sovereign AI Infrastructure approach resonate with U.S.-based or international companies seeking secure and compliant AI deployments?

• TM Global’s sovereign AI Infrastructure is built on a foundation of trust, security, and regulatory compliance, anchored firmly within Malaysia’s jurisdiction. It is purposefully designed to meet the needs of global enterprises looking to deploy AI solutions in a secure, compliant, and future-ready environment
• Our data centres are specifically engineered to prioritise security at every layer. Built with a “security by design” philosophy, they integrate advanced safeguards such as real-time surveillance, intelligent threat detection, and automated response systems—ensuring continuous protection against evolving cyber threats and supporting robust risk management for mission-critical operations.
• For U.S.-based and international companies, TM Global offers more than just a sovereign platform—we serve as a strategic bridge to the ASEAN region, providing secure access to one of the world’s fastest-growing digital economies.
• With data fully protected under Malaysian law and managed to the highest standards, we enable enterprises to scale AI deployments confidently and compliantly across Southeast Asia.

Edge computing was a prominent topic at Tech Day. What role does edge infrastructure play in TM’s strategy to deliver low-latency, high-performance AI services across Southeast Asia and beyond?

• The prominent topic at Tech Day was GPU-as-a-Service. Nevertheless, Edge infrastructure is a critical pillar in TM’s strategy to deliver low-latency, high-performance AI services across Southeast Asia.
• Supported by our integrated network of core and edge data centres—coupled with DC-to-DC connectivity across both TM-owned and third-party facilities—our infrastructure enables seamless, secure, and high-performance processing and movement of AI workloads.
• With connectivity diversity via terrestrial fibre and a robust submarine cable system, we ensure resilient, high-speed links across the region.
• Additionally, our Facilities Based Operation or FBO licence in Singapore strengthens our role as a strategic bridge between Malaysia and Southeast Asia, allowing enterprises to deploy latency-sensitive applications like AI, cloud gaming, and live streaming with confidence and speed.

TM Global is known for its robust cross-border connectivity solutions. How are you working to enhance enterprise connectivity between the U.S. and Asia, and what new initiatives can customers expect in the coming year?

• At TM Global, we are focused on strengthening digital corridors that connect the U.S. with Malaysia and the broader Southeast Asia region by enabling seamless, high-capacity data transfer across borders and oceans.
• Our extensive submarine cable portfolio forms a hyper connected bridge between the US and ASEAN, delivering resilient, high-capacity, and low-latency intercontinental connectivity.
• Key transpacific systems such as the Asia-America Gateway (AAG), Cahaya Malaysia, and the Bay of Bengal Gateway (BBG) provide direct links from Southeast Asia to North America, supporting the data demands of hyperscalers, OTTs, and global enterprises.
• These are further complemented by major regional systems including SEA-ME-WE 4, SEA-ME-WE 5, APCN 2, DMCS, and Batam-Dumai-Melaka, which enhance diversity and reach across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
• Additionally, systems like the Asia Link Cable (ALC) reinforce intra-Asia route diversity, ensuring more resilient and scalable regional traffic flows. Together with TM Global’s terrestrial fibre and edge infrastructure, this ecosystem enables secure and seamless digital connectivity—bringing the US closer to ASEAN and opening the region to the world.
• In parallel, we have established a strong presence in the United States with offices in Washington DC, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles, allowing us to work more closely with American carriers, hyperscalers, and digital-native companies to bring their services closer to Southeast Asian users.

During Tech Day, various real-world AI use cases were shared by your partners. Can you share one or two standout examples of how enterprises are leveraging TM Global’s GPUaaS to transform their operations or customer experiences?

• Enterprises are leveraging TM Global’s GPUaaS to significantly enhance both operational efficiency and customer experience by enabling high-performance AI applications.
• A standout example is the deployment of an AI-powered virtual assistant that simplifies complex operations by integrating multiple internal systems into a single, unified dashboard. This allows employees to access critical documentation without switching between platforms, leading to faster issue resolution, more informed decision-making, and a noticeable boost in productivity.
• Additionally, this enables employees to focus on higher-value, strategic tasks, while customers benefit from quicker and more consistent service.
• This example illustrates how TM Global’s GPUaaS is helping organizations unlock the full potential of AI—streamlining workflows, empowering teams, and ultimately delivering better outcomes for both operations and customer engagement.

Looking ahead, what’s next for TM in terms of AI innovation and service expansion? Are there any upcoming collaborations or launches that U.S. or global customers should keep an eye on?

• As AI adoption accelerates globally, TM Global is actively expanding our capabilities with a strong focus on flexibility and scalability.
• This includes acquiring the latest GPU chips and diversifying our GPUaaS and AI infrastructure offerings—enabling customers to choose modular components such as space, hardware, GPU chips, and connectivity based on their specific needs.
• In parallel, TM Global collaborates closely within a broader AI ecosystem to bring the latest advancements in AI technology to our customers, ensuring they remain agile and competitive in an increasingly dynamic digital landscape.

What are your predictions for the future of AI-powered data centers and cloud modernization technology?

• The future of AI-powered data centres and cloud modernisation is driven by security, automation, sustainability, flexibility, and intelligent infrastructure. As organisations increasingly rely on AI for critical operations, ensuring a secure digital foundation is more important than ever.
• Facilities are evolving into self-optimising environments, using AI for predictive maintenance, dynamic workload management, and energy efficiency. At the same time, cloud platforms are becoming more decentralised and hybrid, with AI enabling seamless integration across on-premise, cloud, and edge environments.
• Technologies such as AI-as-a-Service, edge computing, and green infrastructure are now critical enablers for real-time analytics, digital transformation, and sustainable growth—all of which depend on an infrastructure that is not only high-performance and adaptable, but also secure by design.
• TM Global, the international and wholesale arm of TM, plays a central role in enabling this shift. Through AI-ready, energy-efficient data centres like KVDC and IPDC, and a growing edge presence, TM and TM Global offer the scalability, low-latency performance, and modular flexibility needed to support diverse AI workloads. Its diversified submarine cable systems, DC-to-DC connectivity, and secure infrastructure ensure data sovereignty and regulatory compliance—critical for sensitive and regulated industries.
• Safeguarding data is critical for today’s businesses, and TM ensures this through data centres designed with security at their core. Leveraging a proactive architecture, we implement continuous threat detection, real-time monitoring, and intelligent defence mechanisms to protect against evolving cyber threats.
• Strategic alliances, including the partnership with Singtel’s Nxera, further strengthen TM’s ability to deliver hyperconnected, secure ecosystems.
• With these capabilities, TM and TM Global are not only meeting current enterprise demands but also positioning Malaysia as a trusted digital gateway to ASEAN, empowering global players to innovate and scale with confidence.

This interview article was first published on AI Technology Insights on 28 July 2025 as part of its Global Telecom Leadership Spotlight.

The global demand for secure and reliable data hosting services is surging, driven by the rapid expansion of cloud-based technologies. In Southeast Asia, the digital economy is projected to reach US$330 billion (S$443 billion) by 2025, fuelling the need for scalable and robust digital infrastructure across the region.

To address this demand, TM Global – TM’s wholesale business arm – is embarking on the next phase of its roadmap to strengthen its digital leadership by 2030, in turn elevating Malaysia’s position as a regional hub for connectivity and innovation.

Malaysia’s strategic location, abundance of land and cost-effective energy infrastructure provide compelling advantages, making it the fastest-growing data centre market in Southeast Asia. Between the second quarter of 2023 and the first quarter of 2024, the country achieved an 80 per cent increase in operational capacity.

With five data centres in Malaysia and one in Hong Kong, TM Global will further strengthen Southeast Asia’s digital ecosystem with upcoming expansions at the Klang Valley Data Centre (KVDC) in Cyberjaya, Selangor, and Iskandar Puteri Data Centre (IPDC) in Johor.
 

BOOSTING SUSTAINABILITY AND PERFORMANCE

Scheduled to commence commercial operations this year, the KVDC and IPDC expansions are expected to deliver a combined IT load of 20 megawatts. Both facilities are designed to meet Tier III of the Uptime Institute’s performance standards and are targeting a silver rating under the globally recognised Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building certification.

Ms Khairul Liza Ibrahim, executive vice president of TM Global, highlighted the significance of KVDC and IPDC within Malaysia’s digital ecosystem, positioning them as international gateways and interconnected points for supporting 5G networks.

“Besides incorporating sustainable designs, the second phase of these data centre expansions will boost TM’s capacity to support hyperscalers, over-the-top (OTT) players, cloud, as well as next-generation artificial intelligence (AI) providers,” she said.

Security within the data centres is reinforced through multi-factor authentication measures such as anti-passback man traps and biometric access controls, supported by up to nine levels of physical security. TM Global also provides software-based security services, including managed firewalls, web filtering, as well as intrusion prevention and detection.

TM Global’s data centre network is further strengthened by eight edge facilities that support high-performance computing and co-location services. With over 160 content delivery network nodes – including more than 50 strategically positioned across Asia Pacific – these facilities reduce latency by bringing content closer to end users, ensuring seamless and uninterrupted data delivery.

Additionally, TM Global is working with Singtel’s Nxera – a regional sustainable data centre plaform – to develop a hyperconnected, AI-ready facility. This collaboration will accelerate the growth of its digital services, including cloud computing, advanced analytics and the Internet of Things.
 

SEAMLESS CONNECTIVITY ACROSS THE REGION

TM Global’s acquisition of a facilities-based operator licence in Singapore marks a strategic milestone in expanding its data centre footprint and enhancing cross-border connectivity across key Southeast Asian markets, including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia. The licence enables TM Global to establish and manage its own network infrastructure in Singapore, reinforcing secure data-centre-to-data-centre connectivity through its robust domestic fibre optics network and international submarine cable systems.

“Leveraging submarine cable systems such as the Nusantara Gateway, we are able to connect data centres across Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia’s Batam, allowing us to meet the growing demand for connectivity across the region,” said Ms Khairul Liza.

In support of Malaysia’s digital ambitions, TM Global has also launched the country’s first GPU-as-a-service (GPUaaS) offering, designed to bolster Malaysia’s AI infrastructure and accelerate digital transformation. Powered by NVIDIA GPU technology hosted entirely within TM’s Uptime Tier-III certified data centres, the solution delivers low-latency, high-performance AI computing with full data sovereignty and security.

GPUaaS eliminates the need for capital-intensive infrastructure by offering scalable, on-demand access to cutting-edge resources. Backed by TM’s nationwide fibre optic network and edge computing facilities, it seamlessly integrates GPU resources with high-speed connectivity to support a wide range of AI-driven applications, from public services and healthcare diagnostics to autonomous vehicles and immersive media.

Through its robust infrastructure, TM Global empowers local enterprises, hyperscalers and AI solution providers with the tools to drive innovation and foster digital integration. It also offers expert guidance for seamless migrations from on-premises data centres, supported by certified onsite assistance and round-the-clock monitoring to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

With a comprehensive portfolio that includes multi-edge computing and content delivery services, TM Global is shaping the future of data hosting and digital infrastructure across the region.

This article was first published as an advertorial on Channel News Asia (CNA) on 8 September 2025. 

TM Global, represented by our UK regional office team, participated in ITW Africa 2025 in Nairobi from 9–11 September, engaging with businesses looking to scale their digital operations beyond Africa.

We met with customers at the Global Leaders’ Forum (GLF) Lounge as part of our GLF Community membership benefits, and hosted a sponsored coffee station — creating spaces to explore how TM Global’s infrastructure and services can support regional growth.

With deep expertise in subsea cable systems, fibre, and 5G backhaul, alongside data centre services, GPU-as-a-Service, edge, cloud gaming, and Content Delivery Network platforms, our delegates shared with customers how TM Global enables African businesses to deliver localised content and expand seamlessly into ASEAN and beyond — backed by strong partnerships with governments, telcos, and technology players. 

MORIB, 25 September 2025 – TM Global, the wholesale business arm of TM, today announced the completion of its fifth cable landing station in Morib, Selangor (Morib CLS). This marks a significant milestone in Malaysia’s digital infrastructure development, reinforcing the country’s position as a strategic digital hub in the region.

Spanning 7,000 square feet, the Morib CLS is an open CLS that allows multiple service providers to interconnect and exchange connectivity and data traffic seamlessly. This facility is supported by a dedicated Network Operations Centre (NOC), offering 24/7 real-time monitoring for enhanced operational reliability and service assurance.

Khairul Liza Ibrahim, Executive Vice President of TM Global, said, “The completion of the Morib CLS represents a pivotal step in enhancing Malaysia’s global connectivity. Strategically located along the Straits of Malacca, one of the world’s most important subsea cable routes, the open CLS serves as an ideal landing point—offering direct international access, improved route diversity, and reduced latency. Its proximity to Klang Valley’s data centre clusters further supports seamless network integration, optimising end-to-end data transmission efficiency.”

As part of TM’s ambition to become a Digital Powerhouse by 2030, the Morib CLS is purpose-built for energy efficiency and future scalability, now capable of supporting up to three submarine cable systems—including the Sea-Me-We 6. Aligned with TM Group’s commitment to responsible and sustainable growth, the facility incorporates practical features such as low-power cooling systems and solar-powered streetlights. The Morib CLS reinforces TM’s long-term strategy to position Malaysia as a leading regional digital hub, reflecting its ongoing efforts to integrate sustainability elements into its infrastructure development.

Liza explained, “Beyond this milestone, TM Global is enhancing its digital transformation footprint, with data centres and Edge Facilities scaled up to 40MW. Construction is also underway for a new AI-ready data centre in collaboration with Singtel’s Nxera, with a planned capacity of up to 200 MW.”

TM brings decades of experience in developing and investing in domestic and international submarine cable systems. With 33 owned and leased submarine cable systems spanning more than 275,000 kilometres around the globe, TM is committed to providing the highest service performance and best quality experience to all its customers.

Recently, TM Global was also named Telecom Company of the Year – Malaysia for the third consecutive year during the 2025 Asian Telecom Awards, a testament to its strong financial growth and leadership in AI-driven digital infrastructure. Securing its first-ever Infrastructure Initiative of the Year – Malaysia award further cements its role as a key enabler of the nation’s digital transformation, driving innovation and economic progress.

TM, Meta, SoftBank Corp., IPS Inc., PT XLSmart Telecom Sejahtera Tbk, and NEC Corporation are collaborating to develop the Candle submarine cable system.

Candle is a 24-fiber pair, 8,000 km submarine cable system connecting Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, that is scheduled to begin operations in 2028. It will contribute to infrastructure expansion and secure redundant routes to meet the increasing demand for data communications driven by 5G and AI.

This cable system will be one of the first in the Asia-Pacific region to use a 24-fiber pair cable, enabling superior traffic capacity to support the growing demand for communications in the region.

Chairperson of the Candle Management Committee, Don Pang, said: “Candle represents a pivotal advancement in fortifying the region’s digital infrastructure. As the need for robust, high-speed connectivity grows, Candle will deliver greater network diversity and resilience along this essential corridor, leveraging state-of-the-art technology. This milestone reflects the deep collaboration among our partners and underscores our shared commitment to advancing digital inclusion and economic opportunity for over half a billion people in the Asia-Pacific region.”

The partners from participating countries also provided their comments on the importance of this new system.

Amar Huzaimi Md Deris, TM’s Group Chief Executive Officer said, “TM’s participation in the Candle submarine cable system project demonstrates our commitment to building resilient digital infrastructure that meets the growing demand for digital services and cloud-based, AI-driven innovation across Asia. It strengthens our ability to support hyperscalers, enterprises and global service providers in expanding their footprint across ASEAN, while reinforcing Malaysia’s role as ASEAN’s digital hub. This initiative bodes well with our aspiration to become a Digital Powerhouse by 2030—connecting Malaysia to the world, and the world to Malaysia.”

“At Meta, we imagine a future where everyone has access to AI, personal superintelligence, and other emerging technologies to improve their lives and connect with each other. This is part of our commitment to seamlessly bring people together no matter where they are in the world.,” said Nico Roerich, Director, APAC Network Investments, Meta.

“With the rapid advancement of generative AI and the Internet of Things (IoT), the demand for international telecommunications is expected to continue accelerating. CANDLE adopts a 24-fiber-pair architecture, making it one of the core foundations of next-generation social infrastructure that SoftBank is promoting. By integrating with other submarine cables such as JUPITER, ADC, and E2A, we will further enhance the diversity and redundancy of global communications networks originating from Japan, and strengthen Japan’s role as a digital gateway for Asia,” said Kimimasa Kudo, Vice President and Head of Global Business Division, Enterprise Unit, SoftBank Corp.

"Our participation in this project reaffirms our commitment to play a significant role in the further development of digital infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region, which is vital to our operations in Japan, the Philippines, and Singapore. With our subsidiary, InfiniVAN, as the landing party in the Baler, Aurora Province on the eastern seaboard of the Philippines, this is one of many projects we have planned in support of developing the Philippines as a connectivity hub in Southeast Asia." said Koji Miyashita, CEO of IPS, Inc.

“XLSMART will fully support the project and we believe the Candle cable will bring benefits for all consortium parties and Indonesia”, said Feby Sallyanto, Chief of Enterprise, PT XLSmart Telecom Sejahtera Tbk.

Tomonori Uematsu, General Manager, Submarine Network Division, NEC Corporation, added, “NEC is a leading vendor in the submarine cable system business with over 60 years of experience. NEC is particularly strong in leading subsea projects in the Asia-Pacific region, having been responsible for eight optical submarine cable systems connecting Japan and Singapore, including ‘Candle.’ In this project, NEC will participate as a system integrator, providing everything from the manufacture of submarine cables and repeaters to route design, installation, and testing. Through the establishment of a highly reliable communication environment in the Asia region, NEC will contribute to the development of the digital economy.”

This initiative is a milestone in collective partnerships and commitment to strengthening regional connectivity, ensuring secure and reliable international data transmission, and advancing the digital growth of communities and businesses across ASEAN.

Telekom Malaysia recently launched a GPUaaS platform to allow customers to tailor their infrastructure by selecting combinations of hardware, GPUs, and connectivity

In sum – what you need to know:

AI demand reshapes infrastructure – Cloud growth, immersive apps, and national AI initiatives are driving urgent demand for scalable, low-latency AI infrastructure across Southeast Asia.

TM lowers AI barriers – Telekom Malaysia’s GPU-as-a-Service tackles key adoption challenges like high upfront costs, data sovereignty, and inflexible infrastructure by offering localised, modular GPU access.

Malaysia rises as AI hub – With hyperscaler-ready data centers, a national fiber backbone, and regional connectivity, TM is positioning Malaysia as a launchpad for AI innovation across ASEAN.

Telekom Malaysia (TM), through its wholesale division TM Global, is positioning itself at the heart of Southeast Asia’s digital transformation by building out AI-ready infrastructure that meets the region’s evolving needs for scalability, data sovereignty, and energy efficiency.

As the region accelerates its adoption of AI technologies, the demand for low-latency, high-performance compute infrastructure has surged. In an interview with RCR Wireless News, Baharul Nizam Said Daliman, vice president of international sales at TM Global, outlined how TM is responding to this shift.

“The surge in cloud adoption and the expansion of digital services—from e-commerce to fintech and smart farming—require robust, scalable computing power to handle complex AI workloads,” Baharul Nizam said. He also pointed to a wave of government-backed AI initiatives, such as Malaysia’s National AI Roadmap and the National AI Office, which are helping to foster a strong AI ecosystem.

Solving real pain points with GPUaaS

TM’s GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS) platform, launched in ASEAN in December, is a cornerstone of this strategy. It was designed to tackle some of the most common barriers to AI adoption: cost, latency, and compliance.

“One of the most pressing barriers was the high upfront cost of AI infrastructure. Our service removes that barrier by offering scalable, on-demand access to powerful Nvidia GPU resources,” Nizam said. These resources are hosted in TM’s Uptime Tier III and LEED-certified data centers.

In addition to lowering the cost barrier, TM localised its GPUaaS platform to ensure data sovereignty and minimise latency. He added: “By localizing GPUaaS within Malaysia and integrating it with TM’s nationwide fibre network and strategically placed edge facilities, we deliver low-latency performance and ensure secure, in-country data residency—an essential requirement for regulated industries.”

The platform is modular and flexible, allowing customers to tailor their infrastructure by selecting combinations of hardware, GPUs, and connectivity. This approach supports a wide range of AI use cases — from diagnostic imaging and public sector avatars, to immersive content development and autonomous navigation.

Scaling for hyperscalers and enterprises

As hyperscalers expand their footprint in the region, TM is also upgrading its infrastructure to meet their growing needs. Its Nxera data center in Johor, set to launch soon, will offer up to 200 MW of scalable power and is designed to support energy-intensive AI and cloud workloads.

“Malaysia’s strategic location gives TM a unique advantage in supporting hyperscalers with a strong foundation of secure, high-performance infrastructure,” said Nizam. TM’s network includes a mix of core and edge data centres linked by robust fibre connectivity and backed by terrestrial and undersea cables across ASEAN.

For regional enterprises, scaling AI workloads locally presents its own challenges, such as limited access to high-performance compute and data governance concerns. TM aims to close these gaps with flexible infrastructure, including 29 global Points of Presence and over 160 CDN nodes, and a Facilities-Based Operator (FBO) license in Singapore.

Malaysia’s role in the regional AI future

Looking ahead, TM sees itself and Malaysia playing a central role in shaping Southeast Asia’s digital future.

“In the next 3 to 5 years, TM Global… will continue building on this legacy by playing a central role in enabling the growth of regional data center and AI infrastructure,” Nizam said. By combining infrastructure, connectivity, and governance, TM aims to create a trusted platform for cloud growth, AI innovation, and seamless cross-border data flows, the executive added.

TM Global is the wholesale division of Telekom Malaysia, handling both domestic and international markets. TM Global provides data center services including hosting and edge facilities. It also offers voice services, including bilateral and VoIP, as well as multimedia solutions.

*This article was first published on RCR Wireless News, July 24, 2025.