KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 10): ITMAX System Bhd (KL:ITMAX) has secured approval from the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) for a RM134.3 million project to develop communications infrastructure and digital connectivity for the Kota Kinabalu Smart City project. According to its Bursa filing on Monday, the smart city integrated systems and solutions provider has also been designated as the universal service provider for the project, which will see the group design, supply and install and commission the infrastructure. The project will be carried out over an implementation period of up to 24 months, followed by a five-year operational period upon completion. The service period commenced on Aug 6. The latest award expands ITMAX’s smart-city business, with its systems supporting urban monitoring and services through digital infrastructure. ITMAX said the project is expected to boost earnings and marks its entry into East Malaysia as it expands nationwide. ITMAX managing director and CEO William Tan Wei Lun said the group sees significant growth potential in East Malaysia, where smart city development remains at an early stage and demand for intelligent digital infrastructure continues to grow. Under the project, ITMAX will deploy a Network Operation Command Centre and Smart Video Surveillance System across Kota Kinabalu, aimed at improving public safety and the city's operational efficiency. “As one of Malaysia’s key tourism destinations, we believe Kota Kinabalu will benefit from smarter urban infrastructure that supports sustainable city development and the continued growth of its tourism economy,” Tan said. The approval does not require the consent of ITMAX shareholders or any other relevant authorities, while none of its directors or major shareholders has any direct or indirect interest in the project. Shares of ITMAX closed up half a sen or 1.09% at RM4.65 on Monday, valuing the group at around RM4.83 billion.