HGC Global acquires MY-based XMT to foster regional connectivity

Hong Kong-based telco HGC Global has acquired Malaysian telco XMT, further strengthening its regional presence and market coverage. By integrating XMT's network with HGC's global backbone, the group is building a high-capacity "network highway" to serve international telecommunications, enterprises and OTs.

While the cost of the deal has not been disclosed, this acquisition comes as part of HGC's strategic direction under the wave of Industrial Revolution 4.0 and AI boom. Building on the robust digital infrastructure and technological expertise, HGC is driving innovation, delivering tailored solutions and fostering regional connectivity to support enterprises and communities. 

XMT is a telecommunications company holding full licenses (NFP and NSP), and has commenced fiber optic laying projects in Kuala Lumpur and other locations, expanding its business to AI hotspots such as Johor, Cyberjaya, and Johor Bahru, according to Andrew Kwok (pictured middle), CEO of HGC Global. 

Kwok said: "Amid a rapidly evolving global environment, HGC’s 2025 performance across business units have demonstrated our resilience and strategic vision. We have continued to invest in digital infrastructure and AI capabilities, enabling our transformation from a traditional telecommunication operator into a trusted partner for digital transformation."

"This shift has already delivered remarkable results, including our award-winning GodEye platform redefining network operations and our ongoing expansion across Southeast Asia to enhance both local and regional connectivity. Looking ahead, we are confident that our strategies will drive sustainable growth, ultimately creating value for the communities we serve, reinforce Hong Kong’s position as a leading international telecom hub," he added.

Furthermore, the group has signed a inked deal with Johor Capital Group (JCG),  a newly established entity under Johor Corporation (JCorp). This collaboration under the East-West Gateway Project (EWG Project) will explore the vision of a next-generation digital infrastructure hub, encompassing submarine landing points, terrestrial networks, data centre interconnects and internet exchanges, connecting to Johor.

HGC will leverage its global network of major hubs to integrate Johor’s emerging AI hub for the future of AI-ready connectivity, empowering Malaysia and the region to thrive in the intelligent economy. 

Customers will benefit from seamless access to HGC's extensive global network, ensuring diverse connectivity options for global reach. Additionally, the partnership strengthens HGC Malaysia’s asset infrastructure expansion in Southeast Asia, fostering sustainable growth and reinforcing Asia’s digital corridor.  

Kwok said, “HGC is committed to supporting the ASEAN region and helping our customers navigate digital transformation and the AI boom by delivering diverse, resilient connectivity solutions. Malaysia plays a pivotal role as an emerging AI hub, including data center, submarine and terrestrial digital infrastructure. This collaboration with JCG underscores HGC’s dedication to investing in AI-ready infrastructure and creating new pathways for data traffic — connecting Hong Kong to ASEAN’s AI ecosystem and driving the future of a truly connected, AI-ready world for businesses and communities.”

Ravindran Mahalingam, senior vice president, international business and digital infrastructure of HGC, added, “We’re excited to partner with JCG to develop a new transit hub that positions Johor as a regional AI hub, supported by the world-class digital infrastructure."

"Built on HGC’s shared network philosophy, we bring deep expertise in fiber and network know-how, along with our established Regional Data Centre Interconnect, to create an open, collaborative ecosystem. This approach strengthens routes connecting Johor’s East and West coasts to AI hubs and beyond — while seamlessly linking the region to Hong Kong as a global connectivity gateway," Mahalingam added.

To further strengthen Asia's interconnectivity, HGC has built a regional DCI cluster connecting over 70 major data centres across Hong Kong, Singapore and multiple Southeast Asian markets. This infrastructure supports high-speed local and cross-border connectivity, AI computing and cloud services.

Kwok also pointed out that HGC previously established a company in the Philippines and obtained a local telecommunications license. While Hong Kong previously had over 20-30 submarine cables, this number has now decreased to 13, and may increase to 17 in the coming years. However, compared to Singapore, which will have approximately 40 cables in three years, Hong Kong has clearly lost its advantage.

HGC's expansion into the Philippines indirectly helps increase the number of submarine cables available to businesses, as the number of submarine cables in the Philippines has increased from two to 17.

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