Anwar hails TM’s 80-year role in expanding connectivity, calls for shared prosperity

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim honored Telekom Malaysia Bhd (TM) for its 80-year history as Malaysia celebrated its independence on Monday. Speaking at the company's anniversary event, Anwar commended TM for playing a crucial role in connecting the nation and advancing digital development since its inception during pre-independence times.

He emphasized that independence is about sharing prosperity with all Malaysians, not just extracting wealth for the elite. Anwar praised TM's evolution from its early days to becoming a key driver in the country's connectivity and digital advancements. He highlighted the significance of TM's privatisation in the 1990s, noting that while increased efficiency and profitability were essential, they should not come at the expense of workers' welfare.

The prime minister stressed that government-linked companies must balance financial performance with social responsibility, using TM as an example of equitable growth under his "Madani" policy framework. Anwar urged corporate leaders to prioritize workers' welfare, better wages, and quality housing and education for employees' families as Malaysia moves into a new era of technological progress, including the deployment of next-generation internet-based capabilities and digital infrastructure.

He described TM as a regional powerhouse but stressed that progress and economic growth must ultimately benefit all Malaysians.