ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of integrated information and communication technology solutions, has collaborated with Borneo Restu Sdn Bhd (Borneo Restu) to accelerate the deployment of fiber connectivity under the Point-of-Presence (PoP) Phase 2 project in Sarawak, a major rural fiber connectivity initiative designed to expand access across schools, households, and underserved areas.
Borneo Restu is actively advancing rural connectivity in Sarawak through large-scale fiber infrastructure projects. As part of its ongoing efforts, the company has successfully delivered:
· 417 telecommunications towers
· Over 5,000 kilometers of fiber optic cable laid to date
· 87 base transceiver station (BTS) sites
· 3 in-building coverage (IBC) systems to enhance indoor connectivity
This proven track record positions Borneo Restu as a key player in expanding digital infrastructure across East Malaysia, with PoP Phase 2 building upon this strong foundation.
This strategic collaboration marks a major milestone in ZTE's efforts to expand advanced broadband access to rural and underserved areas across Malaysia. As part of its longstanding presence in Malaysia, ZTE has been instrumental in supporting national connectivity efforts, from upgrading mobile networks to expanding fiber coverage. These initiatives have helped lay the foundation for greater digital inclusion, especially in less-connected communities.
The PoP Phase 2 project in Sarawak builds on this momentum by focusing on fiber-to-the-home (FTTH) connectivity. Designed to enhance broadband access across schools and the surrounding communities, the project aims to significantly strengthen Sarawak's digital infrastructure. ZTE is supporting the rollout with its advanced optical network solutions—engineered for rapid deployment and reliable performance—tailored to meet the unique challenges of low-density and remote environments across the region.
Steven Ge, Managing Director of ZTE Malaysia, said, "We are honoured to collaborate with Borneo Restu on this important project that will extend reliable fiber connectivity across Sarawak. This collaboration is more than a technology rollout. It's a commitment to inclusive development, bridging gaps, and creating meaningful digital access for communities across the region."
The broader impact of PoP Phase 2 extends beyond network connectivity. It enables digital learning in schools, improves remote work and online services, supports entrepreneurs and SMEs in scaling digitally, and enhances the region's attractiveness for foreign and domestic investments. The project also lays the groundwork for future-ready infrastructure that supports long-term economic growth and innovation in Sarawak.
Ian W Lee, Managing Director of Borneo Restu, also said, "PoP2 is a crucial step forward in expanding fiber connectivity across Sarawak, and we are pleased to partner with ZTE to bring this vision to life. Their experience in large-scale infrastructure projects gives us confidence in delivering a solution that supports inclusive growth, drives innovation, and strengthens the region's digital foundation."
By combining ZTE's technical expertise with Borneo Restu's local execution capabilities, the project exemplifies how private-sector partnerships can drive meaningful change in underserved regions. Together, they are helping to bridge connectivity gaps in Sarawak, ensuring that no community is left behind in the country's digital transformation.
