Malaysia Retail Chain Association (MRCA), a 562-member organization representing Malaysian retailers and Maxis, a Malaysia-based integrated telco, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to drive the adoption of 5G technology solutions in bolstering the domestic retail sector.

Maxis said in a statement on Tuesday that the partnership seeks to improve retail customer experience and increase operational efficiency through advanced connectivity and digital solutions.

These encompass retail analytics, artificial intelligence (AI)-powered computer vision, managed network services, extended reality (XR) experiences, and supply chain enhancements, all supported by secure connectivity and cloud infrastructure.

Maxis will also engage MRCA members through regular workshops to enhance their digital knowledge, with a focus on 5G solutions.

This is aligned with MRCA’s objective of promoting a continuous learning culture among its members to ensure the country’s retailers can stay at the forefront of the rapidly evolving retail landscape.

The partnership was formalized with a signing ceremony during an MRCA CEO Get Together held recently.

Attended by over 60 founders, CEOs and leaders from retailers nationwide, the event provided a platform for members to network and learn more about the latest technologies and trends powering retail transformation such as 5G, automation and the internet of things (IoT).

“Our collaboration with Maxis complements our own digital transformation program and provides a platform for retail owners and stakeholders — including more than 40,000 member outlets around the country — to try out new technology and connectivity solutions,

“With Maxis as our trusted partner, our members can not only better adapt to the realities and demands of the digital economy, but also shape the future of retail in Malaysia,” said Ken Phua, President of MRCA

Prateek Pashine, Chief Enterprise Business Officer of Maxis, said they look forward to driving deeper engagements with MRCA members to develop use cases across 5G connectivity, managed network services, and beyond.

“Maxis Business is ready to help MRCA members accelerate their digital transformation, so they can focus on what they do best for Malaysian consumers,

“This is in line with our aim of connecting people and businesses to a world of possibilities,” he added.

Maxis Business said it is committed to making it easier for businesses of all sizes to adopt connectivity and digital solutions.

Besides its core fixed and mobile connectivity services, its end-to-end managed network services include cybersecurity, cloud, private networks and IoT solutions.

This partnership is the latest milestone in Maxis’ ongoing initiatives to support the nation’s digital ambitions, including pioneering use cases powered by 5G-Advanced to accelerate digital adoption across various verticals.

Founded in 1992, MRCA members include renowned corporations and midmarket retailers like Poh Kong, Bonia, OSIM, Nelson’s, Focus Point, Chakri Palace, Sunrider International, Valiram, Secret Recipe, Senheng, 7-Eleven, KK Super Mart, Marrybrown, Maxis, RHB Bank and many more.

Maxis partners Singtel to accelerate enterprise digital transformation with Malaysia’s first 5G orchestration platform