Singapore – AXS and NTT DATA have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore the development of cross-border bill payment services across East and Southeast Asia.
The companies said the initial focus will be on interoperability between their bill payment networks in Singapore and Malaysia, allowing users in both markets to access each other’s biller ecosystems through their domestic payment platforms.
In Malaysia, e-pay (M) Sdn Bhd, a bill payment aggregator operating under NTT DATA Payment Services Sdn. Bhd., is expected to provide consumer-facing payment channels and connectivity to local billers. In Singapore, AXS will provide access to billers through its digital platforms and self-service kiosk network.
Under the proposed arrangement, AXS would act as the orchestration and connectivity platform linking participating payment ecosystems and bill payment operators. The companies said a single secure connection would allow access to bill payment services across the broader partner network.
NTT DATA plans to support the initiative through its ADAPTIS payment services brand and its regional presence across Japan and Southeast Asia. The companies said they intend to explore expansion into additional markets, subject to further agreements and regulatory approvals.
The partnership is aimed at addressing demand for cross-border bill payments among consumers who live or work in multiple countries and continue to manage household and recurring expenses in their home markets.
The MOU also includes an intention to explore broader payment-related collaboration beyond bill payments.
Jeffrey Goh, Group CEO, AXS, said, “Following our earlier initiatives in cross‑border bill payments, this collaboration with NTT DATA marks another step in extending AXS’ payment connectivity beyond Singapore. By enabling interoperability with trusted regional partners, we aim to make bill payments more accessible and convenient for users who manage obligations across borders, starting with Malaysia.”
Meanwhile, Masanori Kurihara, Head of Payment, Japan, NTT DATA, commented, “By combining our strengths, we are creating new value that enhances convenience and improves everyday experiences. The collaboration, delivered through ADAPTIS as a commerce partner, is designed to reflect local market practices while supporting our mission to accelerate client success and positively impact society through responsible innovation. This partnership represents a long term commitment between NTT DATA and AXS, with a shared ambition to deepen collaboration over time and explore future opportunities as client and market needs evolve.”
