Huawei Honored with PIKOM Award for Key Role in Malaysia’s Digital Growth

PIKOM

Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd has been awarded a special recognition at the PIKOM LEAD 2024 Summit for its exceptional contributions to the growth and development of Malaysia’s technology sector over the past two decades. The award, presented by YB Tuan Gobind Singh Deo, Malaysia’s Minister of Digital, highlights Huawei’s pivotal role in driving innovation, fostering local partnerships, and building a dynamic digital ecosystem that has helped position Malaysia as a regional technology leader.

At the award ceremony, Mr. Oliver Liu, Vice President of Huawei Malaysia’s Public Affairs and Communications Department, received the accolade on behalf of the company. The recognition comes at a significant time as Malaysia and China celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, further strengthening the ongoing collaboration between the two nations in technology, trade, and investments.

Over the years, Huawei Malaysia has been an integral player in Malaysia’s digital transformation journey. The company has been actively involved in advancing various technological initiatives, including the expansion of connectivity infrastructure, smart city developments, digitalisation of both urban and rural areas, green technology, and the cultivation of digital talent. These efforts align with Malaysia’s vision to become the ASEAN Digital Capital, particularly significant as the country assumes the ASEAN chairmanship in 2024.

Mr. Ong Chin Seong, Chairman of PIKOM, praised Huawei Malaysia for its outstanding role as a multinational corporation (MNC) that has not only made substantial investments in Malaysia but also deeply engaged with the local tech ecosystem. “Huawei’s collaboration with MCMC on the Digital Leadership Excellence programme, and its active engagement with local stakeholders, have been key to the growth of the digital economy in Malaysia. Huawei’s efforts in developing talent and fostering innovation have truly set a benchmark for others to follow,” he said.

Huawei’s commitment to nurturing local talent is evident through initiatives such as the Huawei ASEAN Academy and the establishment of Huawei ICT Academies at universities across Malaysia. The company has trained over 54,000 individuals in digital skills, surpassing its original target of 50,000 digital talents by 2025. This milestone underscores Huawei’s commitment to addressing Malaysia’s talent gap and supporting the nation’s transition to a knowledge-based economy.

This year, Huawei Malaysia also played a crucial role in the launch of the Digital Leadership Excellence (DLE) programme, a collaboration with the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). The initiative aims to upskill leaders in government, industry, and academia to drive Malaysia’s digital transformation. With an initial 50 participants, the programme plans to expand to 100 in the coming year and 150 by 2026.

Huawei’s dedication to advancing digital infrastructure in underserved areas is equally commendable. The company has contributed significantly to initiatives such as the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA) and the Sarawak government’s telecommunication tower project, which aims to build 600 new towers to enhance connectivity in rural communities. By bridging the digital divide, Huawei helps ensure that all Malaysians have access to essential digital services, regardless of their location.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Oliver Liu expressed his gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed Huawei Malaysia’s commitment to further advancing the country’s digital ambitions. “We are deeply honoured to receive this special recognition from PIKOM. This award motivates us to continue empowering businesses, creating value for communities, and supporting Malaysia’s long-term digital goals. Our collaborations with local partners are crucial to building a sustainable, innovation-driven digital ecosystem that will benefit future generations,” he said.

The PIKOM LEAD 2024 Summit, attended by over 500 industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators, explored transformative technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), 5G, and quantum computing. The event highlighted the importance of partnerships in building a resilient digital economy and driving economic progress.

As Huawei Malaysia celebrates its 23rd anniversary in the country, the company remains committed to supporting Malaysia’s digital transformation and continuing its role as a trusted partner in the growth of the nation’s technology ecosystem. With a workforce of nearly 4,000 employees, over 80% of whom are Malaysians, Huawei Malaysia is well-positioned to lead the charge towards a digital future that benefits businesses, communities, and the nation as a whole.

The recognition from PIKOM underscores Huawei Malaysia’s transformative impact on the technology sector and solidifies its enduring commitment to shaping Malaysia’s digital landscape for years to come.