• Committed to delivering advanced technology solutions, with a particular focus on wireless and energy infrastructure
• Strengthening network integration of XLSMART post-merger to enhance connectivity, sustainability, and customer experience

Jakarta, Indonesia, 27 May 2025 – ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of integrated information and communication technology solutions, today announced the signing of a strategic partnership agreement with XLSMART, the newly established entity following the merger of PT XL Axiata Tbk and PT Smartfren Telecom Tbk.

 ZTE and XLSMART sign a strategic partnership agreement

The agreement, aimed at bolstering Indonesia's digital infrastructure, was signed by Richard Liang, President Director of ZTE Indonesia and Shurish Subbramaniam, Director & Chief Technology Officer of XLSMART.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by senior executives from both companies, including Fang Rong, Chairman of ZTE; Xiao Ming, President of ZTE Overseas; Mei Zhonghua, President of Asia-Pacific & CIS Region of ZTE; Bai Yang, CTO of Asia & CIS Region of ZTE; Musa Gan, Sales Director of PT ZTE Indonesia; and from XLSMART: Franky Oesman Widjaja, Chairman of Sinar Mas Telecommunications and Technology; I Gede Darmayusa, Chief Network Integration Officer; and Sanjay Sachdeva, Chief Procurement Officer. 

Through this partnership, ZTE is committed to delivering advanced technology solutions, particularly focused on wireless and energy infrastructure, to support the accelerated integration of networks following the merger. This includes developing a reliable 5G network, implementing energy-efficient solutions using green technology, and strengthening the national digital ecosystem. This collaboration will not only enhance service quality and customer experience but also contribute to accelerating Indonesia's digital transformation, aligning with the government's vision to drive digital economic growth and ensure equitable connectivity across the country.

Richard Liang, President Director of ZTE Indonesia, said, "We are honored to be part of this historic moment in Indonesia's telecommunications industry. Collaborating with XLSMART at this important stage gives us an opportunity to work together towards building a digital infrastructure that is reliable, sustainable, and inclusive. Our shared goal is to help close connectivity gaps, support communities, and contribute to Indonesia's ongoing economic development through innovative technology and environmentally friendly solutions. This partnership goes beyond business—it reflects a joint commitment to fostering a smarter and more resilient future for all Indonesians."

This collaboration marks a pivotal point in the history of the relationship between ZTE and XLSMART's two legacy companies, which has been marked by significant achievements. With Smartfren, the collaboration began in 2006, when ZTE drove the development of CDMA technology in Indonesia. In 2014, the partnership deepened with the signing of Indonesia's first LTE framework agreement, leading to the deployment of over 12,000 LTE sites by 2019. In 2022, ZTE supported Smartfren's Uji Layak Operasional (ULO) 5G project, followed by the modernization of over 8,000 base stations in 2024.

The two companies have also jointly explored next-generation technologies, such as AI-native RAN, energy-efficient solutions, and smart city applications.

Together with XL Axiata, ZTE has established a solid history of collaboration through a range of strategic technological initiatives. In 2021, the two companies successfully implemented the IPRAN (IP Radio Access Network) project, followed by the completion of the PUMA project in 2022. This close technical and strategic partnership continues to grow across multiple network domains, strengthening long-term alignment and a shared commitment to a more connected and sustainable future.

Shurish Subbramaniam, Director & Chief Technology Officer of XLSMART stated, "We are proud to partner with ZTE at this transformative moment for XLSMART and the Indonesian telecommunications industry. This collaboration reflects our strong market position and ZTE's proven technological expertise in building a future-ready network that is reliable, efficient, and sustainable. Together, we aim to expand digital access, enhance service quality, and accelerate Indonesia's vision for an inclusive, connected society. Our joint commitment to innovation and green technology will be key in delivering enhanced connectivity and empowering communities across the nation."

ZTE is committed to providing full support to XLSMART in the integration and transformation of the merged network, aiming to create an infrastructure that is future-ready with high efficiency and optimal performance. This support includes the provision of a reliable supply chain and rapid delivery of network equipment, the development of innovative product solutions tailored to the latest technological needs, as well as engineering and implementation that ensure a smooth and stable integration process with a consistent user experience. Additionally, ZTE will conduct comprehensive network planning and optimization to maximize performance and investment value at every site.