Thuraya and Chunghwa Telecom Announce Historic Service Launch for Taiwan

DUBAI (Feb. 18, 2013) – Thuraya Telecommunications, a leading Mobile Satellite Services operator and Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan’s leading telecom operator today announced the historic milestone of receiving licensing approval from the NCC, Taiwan’s national telecoms regulator, for the provisioning of Thuraya’s mobile satellite services in the country.

The significance of this licensing agreement means that for the first time, Taiwanese consumers and enterprise users alike will no longer be required to apply for individual licensing approval from the NCC to use mobile satellite services in the country. Previously, only enterprise users were eligible for licensing approval of Mobile Satellite Services. With this historic agreement, Chunghwa Telecom’s subscribers can benefit from Thuraya’s voice, data and maritime services across its extensive satellite footprint covering over 140 countries in Africa, Asia Pacific, Australia, Europe and the Middle East.

On the occasion of this historic milestone, Thuraya’s Chief Executive Officer, Samer Halawi, said “We are pleased to be working with a reputable and experienced partner in Chunghwa Telecom to bring Thuraya’s mobile satellite products and services to more users in Taiwan. We are grateful to the NCC for granting licensing approval of Thuraya’s satellite services, which will enable Taiwan’s citizens to stay connected across our global network on land and sea, beyond the confines of terrestrial networks.”

Chunghwa Telecom International Business Group’s President, Tai-Feng Leng, said, “This agreement signifies an important milestone for our customers who can now benefit from using a range of innovative mobile satellite voice, data and maritime products across Thuraya’s comprehensive network. We chose to work with Thuraya because of their strong focus on delivering superior products and network services, which is consistent with our own corporate philosophy. “

Taiwan is considered a key growth market for Thuraya which is characterized by strong demand for reliable and cost-effective voice and data services from the fisheries sector. Thuraya MarineComms offers a range of products including the SF2500, dubbed the ultimate satellite phone at sea and the Seagull 5000 offering voice and data connectivity for medium to small vessels, fishing boats and yachts at sea. Thuraya also offers the world’s most rugged satellite phone, the Thuraya XT and the ultra-lightweight Thuraya IP broadband terminal which are used by a variety of users from across the Maritime, Government, NGOs, Energy and Media sectors.

About Chunghwa Telecom
Chunghwa Telecom (TAIEX 2412, NYSE: CHT) is Taiwan’s leading telecom service provider. Chunghwa provides fixed line, mobile, broadband access, and internet services. The Company also provides information and communication technology services to corporate customers. For more information visit: http://www.cht.com.tw/en.

About Thuraya Telecommunications Company
Thuraya Telecommunications Company is an industry leading MSS operator and a global telecommunication provider offering innovative communications solutions to a variety of sectors including energy, broadcast media, maritime, military and NGO. Thuraya’s superior network enables clear communications and uninterrupted coverage across two thirds of the globe by satellite and across the whole planet through its unique GSM roaming capabilities. The company’s diverse range of technologically superior and highly reliable mobile satellite handsets and broadband devices provide ease of use, value, quality and efficiency. Thuraya remains committed to serving humanity through delivering the essential tools for optimal connectivity, never leaving anyone out of reach.

# # #

For further information please contact:
Shereen Hanafi
Director of Communications
Thuraya
Tel: + 971-4-4488-888
Email: [email protected]

Jeff H.C. Huang
Director of Satellite Business Department
Chunghwa Telecom International Business Group
Tel: +886 2 2344 4301
Email: [email protected]