Unified National Networks Sdn Bhd (UNN) has been recognised for its commitment to sustainability and community empowerment, receiving the ESG Initiative of the Year award at the Asian Telecom Awards 2025.
The award ceremony, held on 20 February 2025 at Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre in Singapore, honoured UNN for its “UNNity for Local Community” outreach programme.
As part of its Rural Development Project, which commenced in 2020, UNN established hybrid solar-powered base stations in remote areas of Brunei Darussalam. To date, six operational stations provide sustainable, off-grid connectivity to rural communities, ensuring access to essential telecommunications infrastructure while utilising clean, renewable energy.
Recognizing the logistical challenges of maintaining these sites, UNN expanded its initiative to include local community engagement. The UNNity for Local Community programme empowers rural residents by involving them in these solar-powered stations’ upkeep and basic maintenance.
This initiative not only fosters inclusive connectivity but also significantly reduces UNN’s carbon footprint, cutting an estimated 643.2 kg of CO2 emissions per month by minimizing the need for frequent travel to these remote locations.
UNN’s sustainability-driven approach was commended by industry experts from Ernst & Young (EY), PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) China, and Deloitte Southeast Asia, who recognized the company’s outstanding contributions among leading regional telecom firms.
Accepting the ESG Initiative of the Year award on behalf of UNN were Ms. Regina Goh, Head of Academy and Community Outreach Program Lead, and Ms. Christine Leong, Head of Facilities Management and Community Outreach Program Advisor.
In her acceptance speech, Regina Goh emphasised UNN’s commitment to digital inclusion, stating, “UNN’s vision is to build a smart Brunei by ensuring nationwide connectivity and supporting local talent. Our mission is to empower a digital society where all Bruneians can access affordable and meaningful internet services.”
Christine Leong reaffirmed UNN’s dedication to sustainability, adding, “UNN has long been an advocate for environmental responsibility and ethical technology deployment. We are honoured to receive this award, which recognizes our efforts in integrating technology, innovation, and sustainability.”
This recognition underscores UNN’s leadership in sustainable telecom solutions and highlights the company’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and community development.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
