The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) greenlit the merger of Celcom and Digi. With that, the second and third largest local telcos are set to combine into the largest, with a new name MergeCo. But one condition for the merger to get clearance is the divesting of Yoodo within 18 months of the deal closing. Failing that, the subsidiary will have to be shut down three months after the expiry of said 18 months period. On that front, the telco has announced that it will be operating as usual.
In a post on the Yoodo community page, the company made an announcement to that effect, with the message being attributed to the Head of Yoodo, Chow Tuck Mun. The telco also asks its users to “look out for more innovative products and offers”, as well as “more exciting rewards”. For what it’s worth, the telco also says that there will be more esports, entertainment and K-pop experiences to look forward to. The telco also says that it will inform users of any changes in the future.
This is pretty much in line with the agreement between Celcom, Digi and the MCMC anyway. As part of the deal, the two telcos have agreed to ensure that existing and new Mobile Virtual Network Operators are not affected by the merger. This would naturally involve Yoodo. These MVNOs will also continue to be given access to wholesale services for three years.
All in all, Yoodo users should be able to continue using the service as usual for at least three years. Which may indeed be longer depending on the speed of which the deal can be closed. Currently, it is expected to close within the second half of 2022. The company has understandably yet to announce what it intends to do beyond that.
