By Matrix Networks

Nextgen Networks Pty Ltd, Matrix Networks Pte Ltd and PT NAP Info Lintas Nusa are exploring a proposal to build a new international cable system that will link Singapore to Sydney, Australia via Perth.

This collaborative effort by Nextgen, Matrix and NAP Info would bring together significant existing network assets that cover more than 60 per cent of the cable kilometres that would otherwise need to be built.

Matrix and NAP Info own and operate the Matrix Cable system that joins Singapore and Jakarta, Indonesia as well as fibre connectivity in those countries. Nextgen owns and operates a terrestrial cable system around Australia between Perth on the west coast (the Australian landing point for the new cable) and Brisbane, passing through Adelaide, Melbourne Canberra and Sydney on the way.

The proposed network, with an initial design capacity of 2.56Tbps and a service offering from carrier neutral POPs in Singapore Jakarta and Sydney, could be completed as soon as November 2011.

“There is significant demand to introduce a new open access cable system between Singapore and Sydney, supporting a strong business case for Board approval,” said Jim Schweigert, Executive Vice President of Matrix Networks. “This project will connect one of the key ‘missing links' in the worldwide mesh network. Joining both of these existing networks circumvents many of the challenges faced by previous proposed projects.”

Peter McGrath, Executive General Manager of Leighton Contractors Telecommunications Division said: “The project is subject to Board approval of the business case. Based on what we have in place to date, the business case looks sound while our preliminary discussions with the market have exceeded expectations.”

About Nextgen Networks Nextgen Networks Pty Ltd , a wholly owned subsidiary of Leighton Contractors, is the owner and operator of Australia's third largest long haul fibre optic network. Nextgen is an infrastructure supplying partner to many National and International Carriers and Service Providers operating within Australia. For more information, visit www.nextgennetworks.com.au

About Matrix Networks Pte Ltd About Matrix Networks Pte Ltd Matrix Networks is a new breed of next-generation international telecommunications company that provides equal and open access to international connectivity via undersea infrastructure in Southeast Asia. Matrix Networks holds a Facility-Based Operator (FBO) license issued by the InfoComm Development Authority of Singapore. For more information, visitwww.matrixnetworks.sg

About PT NAP Info Lintas Nusa Established in 2000, NAP Info is the first neutral network access provider in Indonesia. The company owns more than 100km of terrestrial fiber optic within Jakarta, Indonesia, connecting more than 120 buildings. It also owns and will operate the Indonesian cable landing stations. NAP Info also owns and operates a data center that houses major service provider's Point-of-Presence in Jakarta, Indonesia. For more information, visit www.nap.net.id