Google and Microsoft Back Malaysia’s AI Vision

Google’s US$2 Billion Investment in AI and Cloud Services

KUALA LUMPUR – Google has expressed its support for Malaysia’s AI infrastructure development plan, with the tech giant investing US$2 billion (RM8.93 billion) to build the country’s first data centre, in line with Malaysia’s national AI strategy.

At the APEC Summit in Peru, Karan Bhatia, Google’s Vice President of Government Affairs and Public Policy, emphasized that Malaysia’s forward-thinking infrastructure strategy was instrumental in encouraging Google’s US$2 billion commitment to the country’s tech sector.

AI Education and Economic Growth Opportunities

Google’s investment, announced in May 2024, includes the establishment of a Google Cloud region and a data centre, designed to address the escalating demand for cloud services. The investment will also provide AI educational programs, targeting students and educators. The initiative is expected to have an economic impact of over US$3.2 billion (RM14.29 billion) and will create 26,500 new jobs by 2030.

Microsoft’s Endorsement of Malaysia’s AI Roadmap

Microsoft’s Zia Mansoor also commended Malaysia’s National AI Roadmap, acknowledging its comprehensive approach to both AI infrastructure and workforce development. He remarked on the roadmap’s broad scope during the APEC CEO Summit in Peru 2024.

Prime Minister Anwar’s Strategic Focus on AI Ecosystem

Prime Minister Anwar met with Google representatives in Peru on November 15 to discuss AI and data centres. He stressed the importance of strengthening Malaysia’s AI ecosystem while ensuring data protection. Anwar also emphasized Malaysia’s readiness to adjust its policies to attract high-value investments.