We Build Convergent Digital Experiences That Harness Big Data Alongside Advanced Technologies to Solve Concrete Business Challenges: Anthony Rodrigo, Group CIO of Axiata Digital Labs

Axiata Digital Labs serves as the technology nucleus of Axiata Group Berhad, a leading telecommunications group in Asia based in Malaysia. The company drives digital transformation tailored specifically for the telco industry, focusing on pragmatic solutions rather than theoretical innovation.

Anthony Rodrigo, Group CIO of Axiata Digital Labs, says the company’s work goes beyond writing software. “We bring together big data and advanced technologies to create solutions that tackle real business problems.” 

With over 1,200 professionals across seven countries, Axiata Digital Labs delivers digital and IT services for telecommunications, startups, and enterprises. The company prioritizes creating reusable platforms and assets to ensure solutions are efficient and adaptable, enabling clients to realize tangible business value.

Bridging Technology and Business

The company’s expertise spans telecommunications infrastructure and financial services, demanding not just technical skill but deep market insight.

Anthony highlights the difference between flashy tech and effective solutions. “Clients seek dependable results, not disruptive experiments.”

Axiata Digital Labs develops products designed with clear business objectives in mind — improving customer engagement, cutting operational costs, or unlocking new revenue streams. Its experience across diverse markets allows the company to customize solutions that respect local needs while maintaining global standards.

Nurturing Talent to Meet Demand

Sustained growth depends on cultivating the right talent. Axiata Digital Labs invests heavily in its workforce, understanding that technical skills alone are insufficient.

Anthony points out, “Understanding the industries we serve is essential. We push our teams to learn beyond coding, from business strategy to customer experience.”

Operating across multiple countries, the teams blend local expertise with global perspectives. This combination fosters a culture that values practical innovation as much as technical skill.

Robust training programs, mentorship, and clear career paths help employees grow alongside the company’s ambitions.

Making Digital Transformation Work

Digital transformation often carries hype. For Axiata Digital Labs, it means delivering practical, sustainable change.

Anthony stresses the importance of listening carefully. “Transformation involves more than technology. It requires understanding real challenges and adapting solutions accordingly.”

As part of Axiata Group’s ambition to become a New Generation Digital Champion, Axiata Digital Labs positions itself as a key enabler of that vision. Its focus on pragmatic innovation and measurable outcomes helps ensure the company meets the demands of a shifting telecommunications landscape.

By emphasizing measurable impact, investing in talent, and maintaining close client relationships, Axiata Digital Labs steers clear of empty promises. The company commits to digital solutions built to endure — providing a steady hand amid rapid change and complexity.

Anthony Rodrigo | Group CIO

Anthony Rodrigo serves as Group Chief Information Officer at Axiata Digital Labs, where he oversees the company’s technology strategy and digital transformation initiatives. With extensive experience in telecommunications and IT, he has a proven track record of driving innovation that aligns with business goals. Anthony focuses on building scalable solutions that deliver measurable value to clients across diverse markets. His leadership emphasizes collaboration, talent development, and practical technology adoption. Prior to joining Axiata Digital Labs, he held key roles in leading technology firms across the Asia-Pacific region.

We focus on creating solutions that serve real needs — helping customers adapt, grow, and stay relevant in a fast-changing market.