Singapore Telecom seeks competitive edge

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01 September 1999

Singapore Telecom loses its monopoly in fixed line services in 2000. The operator will focus increasingly on international investments and a diversified range of services to offset a potential decline in revenues from international direct dial. President and CEO Hsien Yang Lee talks to Global Telecoms Business about the operator's long-term ambitions.

Singapore Telecom was corporatized in 1992. The incumbent telco, which is also licensed to provide postal services, was listed on Singapore's stock exchange in 1993. The government holding, Temasek Holdings, owns 77% of the shares. Private investors account for 12% of the shares.
On March 31 2000 Singapore Telecom will lose its monopoly on fixed line national and international communications services. The operator is likely to face stiff competition from a new entrant, StarHub, which is owned by British Telecom (18%), Nippon Telegraph & Telephone (22%), local companies, Singapore Technologies (34.5%) and Singapore Power (25.5%).
In an exclusive interview, the president and CEO of Singapore Telecom Hsien Yang Lee talks about recent developments, including a possible share buyback plan.

The operator has recorded positive earnings results. However, this has not been reflected in its share price. The operator is now considering repurchasing shares, as Lee explains: "I think we...

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