KUALA LUMPUR (July 27): Axiata Group Bhd's 63%-owned unit edotco Group Sdn Bhd has completed its acquisition of an 80% stake in Tanjung Digital Sdn Bhd for RM140 million, allowing it to expand its presence in Kedah with a portfolio of 225 telecommunications towers.

The acquisition was undertaken by edotco Group's wholly-owned unit edotco Malaysia Sdn Bhd from Utara Jernih Sdn Bhd and Mohd Azam Saad.

It said through this acquisition, edotco aims to improve the operational efficiency of tower infrastructure in Kedah, reinforcing its commitment of supporting fast and reliable coverage in the nation.

"Connectivity is a cornerstone of a state's economic and social progress. As such, it is crucial that we have the right infrastructure in place to ensure seamless and wider network reach. By expanding our presence in Kedah, we will work with the entire ecosystem to ensure network providers are able to strengthen their service quality and network footprint across the state," Wan Zainal Adileen, chief regional officer of edotco group, said in a statement today.

Currently, Kedah's lower tower density in comparison to Malaysia's average impacts the quality of network connectivity, said Wan Zainal.

"edotco recognises the need to narrow this gap. To enable consistent and quality network services, we will scale-up our operations and accelerate tower build. Our commitment to ensuring greater connectivity across Malaysia will help bridge the digital divide while moving the country forward into the digital age," he said.

Commenting on the acquisition, Mohd Azam, who is a director at Tanjung Digital, said, "We are encouraged by the prospects of edotco's expansion in the state. This acquisition will allow Kedah's telecommunication industry to benefit from edotco's regional expertise in end-to-end tower solution services.

"The infrastructure enhancements edotco is set to offer will help to spur rapid development and operational improvement of the state's telecoms infrastructure."