Celcom Taps Microsoft Cloud Credentials To Drive 5G Advantage In Malaysia

Celcom Axiata Berhad has partnered with Microsoft to develop new technology skills focusing on cloud and security, particularly for the upcoming 5G era.

The move, which impact the Malaysian market, is also designed to help the business digitally transform operations while transitioning infrastructure to the cloud.

Signed during Mobile World Congress, the agreement includes the adoption of Microsoft solutions to assist the delivery of customer-centric solutions, aimed at improving Celcom’s customers’ journey in the 5G era.

Furthermore, the Axiata Group’s Internet of Things (IoT) Centre of Excellence, which is housed by Celcom, will leverage Microsoft’s technology to create a “culture of innovation and continuous learning at Celcom.”

“At Celcom, we believe in enhancing and improving our customer experience by leveraging modern technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud,” said Idham Nawawi, CEO of Celcom Axiata Berhad.

“Equally important to us is developing the skills of our workforce at Celcom and through this collaboration with Microsoft, we aim to continue building on digital skills that will help propel our business further as we move into the 5G space.

“We are working with our partners and the government to bring 5G to Malaysian shores in the near future. As we were the first to launch Malaysia’s 5G trial in May 2017 and we will be showcasing our innovative 5G products and services very soon.”

Furthermore, Microsoft Teams and Yammer will be jointly deployed at Celcom, effectively creating a modern workplace to improve productivity, efficiency and employee collaboration.

The provider believes that “platform modernization” will create a technology ecosystem for Celcom, which is “intelligent, cost-optimized and flexible.”

Celcom will also be supported by Microsoft technology programs that will develop new skills focusing on cloud and security – employees will be trained with skills in cloud services such as Microsoft 365 and Windows to digitally transform and propel businesses.

“Having advanced our business in the field of AI, we are now setting our sights on optimizing our business performance through the use of cloud technology,” Idham added. “As our customers get more tech-savvy, so should we.”

The provider’s collaboration with Microsoft is part of a long-term relationship between the two companies.

In 2018, they developed Asia’s first customer service in the cloud; Clive and Emma, Celcom’s intelligent virtual agent, which brought together Microsoft’s AI and machine learning technologies, transaction capabilities and personalities for 24×7 customer interaction and inquiries.

“AI, machine learning, robotics, internet of things and the cloud are changing our lives and shaping future generations,” said Alberto Granados, vice president of sales, marketing and operations at Microsoft Asia Pacific.

“By leveraging our worldwide reach, strong local presence and an extensive network of partners, we aim to empower Celcom on their cloud modernization transformation.

“Having worked together with Celcom on the development of the virtual customer service agents – Clive and Emma, we are thrilled once again to be part of their digital transformation journey through skills training, the Innovation Centre and a cloud-enabled modern workplace.”Channel Asia