news-24092024-144940

OMS Group, a Malaysia-based subsea cable solutions company, has recently announced a significant investment of US$300 million for infrastructure development in the ASEAN region. This strategic move aims to enhance the company’s global cable systems and terrestrial infrastructure to cater to the increasing demand for digital services in the region, particularly driven by the rise of data centers and cloud services.

The investment will focus on expanding OMS Group’s subsea cable systems and terrestrial infrastructure, with the goal of acquiring direct ownership of cable systems and enhancing backhaul capabilities from cable landing stations to data centers. By integrating both subsea and terrestrial networks, OMS Group aims to provide comprehensive services to its clients, positioning itself as a one-stop shop for their needs across the ASEAN region.

According to Ronnie Lim, the CEO of OMS Group, this integrated approach not only streamlines access to services but also sets the stage for further expansion into the broader Asia-Pacific market. One of the key projects under OMS Group is the Malaysia India Singapore Transit (MIST) subsea cable system, spanning 8,100 kilometers with landing points in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and India. This cable system, owned by Orient Link, boasts a total capacity of 216 Tbps.

In a recent development, OMS Group subsidiary LitUp Network Singapore has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Thai wholesale network provider International Gateway Company (IGC) to collaborate on projects in Thailand and other ASEAN countries, focusing on cable landing stations and submarine cable systems. This collaboration underscores OMS Group’s commitment to expanding its presence and services in the region.

The investment announcement follows OMS Group’s successful securing of facilities valued at US$292.5 million from a consortium of financial institutions, including HSBC, Affin Bank, Affin Hwang Investment Bank, BDO Capital & Investment Corporation, E-Sun Commercial Bank, and SinoPac, with KKR Capital Markets facilitating the process. Last year, KKR agreed to invest US$400 million in OMS Group to support its growth initiatives, including fleet expansion, capability enhancement, and investments in cable landing stations and subsea cable routes to meet the rising demand for cross-border data transmission and comprehensive subsea cable services.

This strategic investment by OMS Group underscores the company’s commitment to strengthening its infrastructure and services in the ASEAN region, positioning itself as a key player in meeting the evolving needs of the digital economy. With a focus on integrating subsea and terrestrial networks, OMS Group is poised to offer innovative solutions and comprehensive services to its clients, further solidifying its presence in the region’s telecommunications landscape.