Microsoft To Invest RM10.5 Billion To Transform Malaysia Digitally
The investment encompasses several key initiatives aimed at bolstering Malaysia's digital infrastructure and fostering technological innovation.
By Sukhbir Cheema — 02 May 2024, 01:41 PM
Microsoft will invest USD2.2 billion (RM10.5 billion) over the next four years into Malaysia's digital transformation
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella during his visit to Malaysia at today’s Microsoft Build: AI Day said that the monumental investment marks the tech giant's largest commitment to the country in its 32-year history.
"We are committed to supporting Malaysia’s AI transformation and ensure it benefits all Malaysians. Our investments in digital infrastructure and skilling will help Malaysian businesses, communities, and developers apply the latest technology to drive inclusive economic growth and innovation across the country," Nadella said.
The investment encompasses several key initiatives aimed at bolstering Malaysia's digital infrastructure and fostering technological innovation
Among the highlights are the construction of cloud and AI infrastructure, the creation of AI skilling opportunities for an additional 200,000 Malaysians, and the establishment of a national AI Centre of Excellence in collaboration with the Malaysian government to enhance cybersecurity capabilities.
This significant investment underscores Microsoft's dedication to positioning Malaysia as a hub for cloud computing and advanced technologies, including generative AI, which is poised to drive the nation's productivity, competitiveness, resilience, and economic growth.
In addition to infrastructure development, Microsoft is committed to providing AI skilling opportunities for 2.5 million people in ASEAN member states by 2025, including 200,000 Malaysians. These initiatives aim to equip individuals with the skills needed to thrive in the AI era and bridge the digital divide.
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella (left) shakes hands with Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Image via MicrosoftThe investment will also support Malaysia's developer community through initiatives like AI Odyssey, which aims to train 2,000 local developers as AI subject matter experts
Microsoft's investment builds upon its Bersama Malaysia initiative, announced in 2021, which aimed to support inclusive economic growth and establish the company's first data centre region in Malaysia.
The new investment will enable Microsoft to meet the growing demand for cloud computing services and capitalise on the economic opportunities presented by AI technology.
International Trade and Industry (MITI) Minister, Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz lauded Microsoft's long-standing partnership with Malaysia and its recognition of the country's potential as a tech investment destination
The minister emphasised the transformative impact of Microsoft's investment on Malaysia's digital capacity and global competitiveness.
"Microsoft’s 32-year presence in Malaysia showcases a deep partnership built on trust. Indeed, Malaysia’s position as a vibrant tech investment destination is increasingly being recognized by world-recognized names due to our well-established semiconductor ecosystem, underscored by our value proposition that ‘this is where global starts’."
"Microsoft’s development of essential cloud and AI infrastructure, together with AI skilling opportunities, will significantly enhance Malaysia’s digital capacity and further elevate our position in the global tech landscape. 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," he said.
You can learn more about Microsoft's investment and its impact on Malaysia's digital transformation here.
