Malaysia is set to receive a USD 2.2 billion investment from Microsoft over the next four years to advance the country’s digital transformation.
The investment plan, considered to be the single largest investment from Microsoft in Malaysia over the past 32 years, will include building cloud and AI infrastructure across the country.
Microsoft’s investment will also be used to strengthen its partnership with the Malaysian government and establish a national AI Center of Excellence (CoE) that could improve the country’s cybersecurity.
Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO, Microsoft, emphasized the company’s unwavering commitment to Malaysia’s development and cloud/AI hub transformation.
“Our investments in digital infrastructure and [up]skilling will help Malaysian businesses, communities, and developers apply the latest technology to drive inclusive economic growth and innovation across the country,” added Nadella.
Meanwhile, YB Senator, Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade & Industry, highlighted the significance of Microsoft’s investment in the country over the past 32 years, which contributed to the development of the country’s semiconductor ecosystem.
“Together with Microsoft, we look forward to creating more opportunities for our SMEs and better-paying jobs for our people, as we ride the AI revolution to fast-track Malaysia’s digitally empowered growth journey.”
AI Opportunities in Malaysia
Microsoft’s data infrastructure investment forms part of its “Bersama Malaysia (Together with Malaysia)” initiative, announced in April 2021, which plans to develop the company’s first data center region in the country.
The newly announced investment will address the increasing demand for cloud computing services in Malaysia and will also allow the country to capitalize on the latest AI technologies.
Microsoft has also committed to supporting and promoting opportunities for the development of AI skills among 2.5 million individuals across member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), such as Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam by 2025.
Furthermore, the partnership intends to provide individuals with the essential skills and training necessary to effectively utilize AI. In Malaysia, 200,000 citizens are expected to benefit from this upskilling, including students, women in the field of cybersecurity, young individuals from marginalized communities, and employees of non-profit organizations.
Microsoft's continuous investment in Malaysia showcases its commitment to enhancing the country's digital infrastructure and emphasizes its dedication to promoting a flourishing digital environment fueled by innovation, inclusivity, and technological excellence.
