Microsoft announces US$2.2 billion investment in AI and cloud in Malaysia | Technology

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella says the company will provide education and training to 200,000 people.

Microsoft will invest US$2.2 billion in artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure in Malaysia to support the country’s digital transformation, the technology giant said, following similar announcements in Indonesia and Thailand.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella’s announcement on Thursday includes plans to establish an AI Center of Excellence and provide education and training to 200,000 people in the Southeast Asian country.

“We are committed to supporting Malaysia’s AI transformation and ensuring it benefits all Malaysians,” said Nadella when visiting Kuala Lumpur on the final stop of a three-country Southeast Asian tour.

“Our investments in digital infrastructure and skills will help Malaysian businesses, communities and developers apply the latest technology to drive inclusive economic growth and innovation across the country.”

Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Malaysia’s Minister for Investment, Trade and Industry, said the investment reflects a “deep partnership based on trust”.

“Indeed, Malaysia’s position as a vibrant technology investment destination is increasingly being recognized by globally recognized names due to our well-established semiconductor ecosystem, underlined by our value proposition that ‘this is where global begins ‘”, he said.

“The development of Microsoft’s critical cloud and AI infrastructure, along with AI upskilling opportunities, will significantly improve Malaysia’s digital capability and further elevate our position on the global technology landscape. Together with Microsoft, we hope to create more opportunities for our SMEs and better-paying jobs for our people as we harness the AI ​​revolution to accelerate Malaysia’s digital growth journey.”

Nadella earlier this week announced multibillion-dollar investments in AI and cloud services in Indonesia and Thailand.

Global consulting firm Kearney has estimated that AI could contribute nearly $1 trillion to Southeast Asia’s gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030.

Microsoft is trying to increase support for AI development around the world, with its recent initiatives also including major investments in Japan and UAE-based AI company G42.