"The business relationship is in line with YTLE's goal to provide mobile internet services nationwide," said YTL e-solutions executive chairman and managing director, Tan Sri (Dr) Francis Yeoh. "Upon the nationwide commercial service launch in 2009, Malaysians in both urban and rural areas will be able to simultaneously enjoy 4G converged services--mobile voice, data and video with full mobility, using personal WiMAX mobile devices over the YTLE's WiMAX network."

Under the agreement, Dr Yeoh said that Cisco would build and integrate YTLE's WiMAX core network, which includes IP Core, Operating Support Systems, Billing Systems, Proactive Network Operating Centre (PNOC), and Interoperability Testing labs, to help YTL quickly launch new services.

WiMAX Centre of Excellence in Malaysia

"We need a technology partner that can enable a fast and efficient WiMAX core network establishment," said Tan Sri Dr Yeoh. "Together with Cisco, YTLE will create a WiMAX centre of excellence in Malaysia to become a world destination for WiMAX technology development."

Cisco executive vice president, services & chief globalisation officer, Wim Elfrink, said: "This collaborative model is a first for Cisco, and demonstrates how governments and technology leaders can together provide the network as a 'fourth utility' for delivering services that enhance business productivity and quality of life. By enabling the mobile Internet, YTLE and Cisco are helping to enhance the global competitiveness of Malaysia and its citizens."