Microsoft has announced a groundbreaking investment of $2.2 billion over the next four years to fuel new cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure in Malaysia. This move is aimed at meeting the increasing demand for cloud computing services in the country and leveraging the economic and productivity opportunities presented by the latest AI technology.
This investment represents the largest single investment in Microsoft’s 32-year history in Malaysia. Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO of Microsoft, stated, “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.”
The investment will also create AI skilling opportunities for an additional 200,000 people in Malaysia and support the growth of the country’s developer community. Andrea Della Mattea, President of Microsoft ASEAN, emphasized the importance of this strategic emphasis on AI in promoting economic growth and inclusivity.
In addition to Malaysia, Microsoft has also announced plans to provide AI skilling opportunities for 2.5 million people in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member states by 2025. This initiative will be delivered in partnership with governments, nonprofit organizations, and businesses in countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Overall, Microsoft’s investment in Malaysia and the broader ASEAN region underscores the company’s commitment to driving innovation, economic growth, and inclusivity through the power of cloud computing and artificial intelligence technology.