MALAYSIA’S ability to keep pace with the next wave of technological disruption will depend partly on Telekom Malaysia Berhad’s (TM) willingness to move decisively into artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum technology, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today.
He said TM must evolve beyond its traditional role as a telecommunications provider and become a key driver of Malaysia’s technological ambitions as the country confronts increasingly rapid advances in emerging technologies.
Anwar said the company, which traces its roots to the former Telecommunications Department, had a responsibility that extended beyond commercial success to helping Malaysia remain progressive, sovereign and competitive.
“TM must continue to grow, not merely across generations but almost across eras, in line with the technological changes taking place at such a rapid pace,” he said.
He was speaking at the launch of TM’s 80th anniversary celebrations held at Dewan Tunku Canselor, Universiti Multimedia (MMU) in Cyberjaya today.
Anwar said TM had demonstrated its ability to adapt through successive technological shifts, from semiconductors and digitalisation to multimedia and AI.
“I am once again proud that Telekom Malaysia has followed closely from the semiconductor era to the digital era, and when we discussed digital transformation three and a half years ago, among those who responded quickly were TM and the university.
“And when we talk about multimedia and then AI, I am even prouder that those who responded quickly were also TM and Multimedia University,” he said.
He said the next phase should involve greater exploration of frontier technologies, including quantum technology, while leveraging the expertise that TM had accumulated over decades.
For Malaysia, he said, technological advancement could not be separated from the need to reform systems and accelerate the pace of national development.
“Which country can raise its standing, stature and status by maintaining the old situation, which is slow and full of systemic decay and laziness? It is impossible.
“Therefore, progress must be driven more forcefully, and we must ensure that the pace of development becomes faster and more rapid,” he said.
Anwar also cautioned TM against becoming complacent because of its existing achievements, stressing that technological leadership required continuous investment, innovation and the willingness to embrace new disciplines.
He said TM should use its capabilities not only to develop new technologies but also to equip Malaysians with the skills needed to participate in emerging sectors.
The Prime Minister further stressed that technological and commercial success must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of workers and the wider community.
Recalling the privatisation of the Telecommunications Department in 1990, he said efficiency and profitability were important, but the welfare of employees should not be overlooked.
This included adequate housing, better wages and salaries, and greater opportunities for workers’ children, particularly in education.
“That is why Telekom workers generally receive much better recognition. This is the difference in Malaysia and this is what we mean by a Madani nation.
“We want growth to be more vibrant, fresh and rapid. We also want the well-being of the people to be enjoyed by everyone,” he said.
Anwar’s remarks place TM at the centre of Malaysia’s broader push to strengthen its digital capabilities, develop high-skilled talent and ensure the country does not merely adopt emerging technologies but builds the expertise needed to compete in them. - August 26, 2026
