Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Following its recent investments across Indonesia and Thailand, Microsoft has announced that it has also committed an investment total of US$2.2b in Malaysia on May 2.
This initiative is part of Microsoft’s broader investment in Southeast Asia’s digital infrastructure, which aims to provide AI skilling opportunities and enhance the tech force.
In this particular investment, the company will focus on four important tech aspects, including the development of cloud and AI infrastructure. This effort builds on the company’s digital infrastructure investment, which encompasses plans to establish its first datacentre region in the country.
Secondly, a commitment to equipping people with skills and opportunities to thrive in the AI era. This includes offering AI technical and vocational education and training to students, supporting women in building careers in cybersecurity, and providing AI fluency training and education. These educational opportunities are expected to benefit an additional 200,000 people in Malaysia.
Thirdly, the said investment also targets strengthening Microsoft’s partnership with the Government of Malaysia to enhance the nation’s digital ecosystem through various initiatives. This includes establishing a national AI Centre of Excellence in collaboration with agencies in Malaysia’s Ministry of Digital to drive AI adoption across key industries while also ensuring AI governance and regulatory compliance.
Lastly, Microsoft will further continue to help foster the growth of Malaysia’s developer community through new initiatives such as AI Odyssey. This programme is expected to help 2,000 Malaysian developers become AI subject matter experts by learning new skills and earning Microsoft credentials.
Commenting on the initiative, Satya Nadella, chairman and chief executive officer at Microsoft, stated, “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.”
YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry in Malaysia, also said, “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 recognised by world-recognised 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 further explained.
Meanwhile, Andrea Della Mattea, president at Microsoft Asia Pacific, remarked, “We are honoured to collaborate with the government to support their National AI Framework, which enhances the country’s global competitiveness. This strategic emphasis on AI not only boosts economic growth but also promotes inclusivity by bridging the digital divide and ensuring everyone gets a seat at the table, so every Malaysian can thrive in this new digital world.”
“As a result, Malaysia is steadily establishing itself as a regional hub for digital innovation and smart technologies, embodying a forward-thinking approach that prioritises sustainable development and societal well-being through digital transformation,” added Andrea.
