05 May 2008

 

Hong Kong and Singapore, 5 May 2008 – The Infinity Consortium, formed among Hong Kong's City Telecom (CTI) and Singapore's M1 and StarHub, today announced that it has submitted a strong bid to build a state-of-the-art Fibre-to-the-Home (FTTH) broadband network. The network is capable of delivering ultra-high symmetric broadband speeds reaching up to 1Gbps and beyond. The Infinity Consortium proposes to build a new open access network that allows it to leverage on the latest technologies. The Consortium members have the capability and resources to build the new network and extensive experience in competing with entrenched incumbents.

The formation of the Infinity Consortium and the proposal is in response to the Infocomm Development Authority (IDA) ofSingapore’s Request-for-Proposal (RFP) for the Next Gen NBN’s Network Company (NetCo) that will design, build and operate the passive infrastructure network in Singapore.

“CTI is honoured to partner with M1 and StarHub to form Infinity Consortium. We will ensure smooth and reliable delivery of network solution with advanced and proven technologies, embracing the aim to extend the enjoyment level of broadband connectivity to Singaporeans. Our joint expertise and determination to build this infocomm infrastructure with open access capability will definitely complement Singapore’s surging importance in the world,” said Ricky Wong, Chairman of CTI.

"The Infinity Consortium has a unique blend of solid track records in Singapore and Hong Kong, and the essential qualities, to commit to building a world class and future-proof broadband network for Singapore. With the underpinning principle of true Open Access which we fully support, this project will greatly contribute to the development of a highly competitive and vibrant infocomm industry in Singapore," said Neil Montefiore, CEO of M1.

“We fully support the Government’s NG-NBN initiative, and we are pleased to participate in the Infinity Consortium,” said Terry Clontz, CEO of StarHub. “In addition to the Infinity Consortium having the necessary competencies and a genuine commitment to the establishment of an open access regime, it also offers the industry the best, and maybe the last, opportunity for ownership diversification of critical multi-media broadband infrastructure in Singapore.”

The Next Gen NBN is part of Singapore's Next Generation National Infocomm Infrastructure (Next Gen NII), formed to entrench Singapore’s Infocomm hub status and open the doors to new business and social growth for the country. Next Gen NII comprises complementary wired and wireless networks to ensure Singaporeans enjoy seamless connectivity.

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About Infinity Consortium

The Infinity Consortium is formed between Hong Kong's City Telecom (CTI) and Singapore's M1 and StarHub to jointly bid for Singapore’s Next Generation National Broadband Network’s Network Company.

About City Telecom/ Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited

Established in 1992, City Telecom (HK) Limited (SEHK: 1137; NASDAQ: CTEL) provides integrated telecommunications services in Hong Kong. City Telecom’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Hong Kong Broadband Network Limited “HKBN”, is in the process of expanding its network coverage from 1.4 mn to 2.0 mn homepass, reaching 90% of Hong Kong’s households. HKBN has achieved an aggregate Voice, Broadband (symmetric 25Mbps up to 1Gbps), IP-TV, mobile and corporate data services base in excess of 680,000 subscriptions. Additional information on City Telecom can be found at www.ctigroup.com.hk.

About M1

M1, Singapore's most exciting and innovative mobile and IDD service provider, was launched in April 1997. Since then, it has made significant inroads into the local mobile communications market, gaining considerable brand presence and market share. M1 aims to be the market leader in personal voice, business and data communications, focusing on value, quality and customer service. More information on M1 is available at www.m1.com.sg.

About StarHub Ltd

StarHub, Singapore's second largest info-communication company, offers a full and diverse range of information, communications and entertainment services over its advanced fixed, cable, mobile and Internet platforms. Targeting both consumer and corporate markets, StarHub operates a full two-way 3.5G mobile network in addition to its GSM network, a nation-wide HFC network that delivers multi-channel cable TV services (including Digital Cable and High Definition Television) as well as ultra-high speed residential broadband services, and an extensive fixed business network that provides a wide range of data, voice and wholesale services. Launched in 2000, StarHub has become one of Singapore's most innovative info-communications providers, and the pioneer in 'hubbing' - the ability to deliver unique integrated and converged services to all its customers. StarHub is listed on the SGX-ST. Visit www.starhub.com for more information.