Langkawi: EDOTCO Malaysia and Digital Nasional Bhd (DNB) have joined forces with the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) to initiate Malaysia’s first 5G-enabled digital tourism hub in Langkawi. The collaboration aims to leverage advanced connectivity to transform tourism experiences and boost economic opportunities on the island.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative marks a pivotal step in Malaysia’s digital transformation journey. EDOTCO and DNB, in collaboration with LADA, will focus on aligning 5G infrastructure deployment with Langkawi’s tourism and economic objectives. The plan includes expanding high-speed connectivity across key tourism locations, such as Langkawi Sky Bridge, geosites, Pantai Cenang, and major hotels.
To encourage industry adoption, EDOTCO, DNB, and LADA will host an industry workshop next month in Langkawi. The workshop will gather hotel operators, tour agencies, technology providers, and local businesses to explore the potential of 5G-powered solutions in enhancing the tourism sector.
EDOTCO director of Malaysia business, Gayan Koralage, emphasized the importance of digital infrastructure in the transformation process. He stated that the workshop with LADA would lay the groundwork for a comprehensive digital transformation strategy in Langkawi, aiming to empower businesses through digital innovations such as smart hotel management systems, contactless services, and AI-driven customer insights.
LADA chief executive officer, Datuk Haslina Abdul Hamid, highlighted Langkawi’s status as a global tourism hub and a venue for prestigious international sporting events. She noted that high-speed connectivity would enhance real-time data analytics for athletes, enable immersive live streaming for global audiences, and improve event logistics through smart infrastructure management.
DNB CEO, Datuk Azman Ismail, expressed that Langkawi is an ideal setting to demonstrate how 5G can support a future-ready tourism model, create new economic opportunities, and align with Malaysia’s digital goals. He emphasized the collaboration with mobile network operators to ensure a sustainable impact, positioning Langkawi as a model for future 5G-powered destinations across Malaysia.
The partnership is set to span over two years, starting with a six-month proof of concept (POC) phase to validate key 5G-enabled solutions. The subsequent 18 months will focus on expanding the initiative with advanced use cases, including 5G-powered autonomous shuttle services, AI-driven smart hospitality solutions, and other next-generation applications for seamless digital tourism experiences.