Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced during a visit to Kuala Lumpur that the tech giant will invest $2.2 billion in artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure in Malaysia. This investment is part of Microsoft’s efforts to support the country’s digital transformation, with plans to create an AI Centre of Excellence and provide education and training to 200,000 people.
Nadella emphasized Microsoft’s commitment to helping Malaysia benefit from AI transformation and ensuring that all Malaysians have access to the latest technology. The investment aims to help businesses, communities, and developers in Malaysia drive economic growth and innovation through digital infrastructure and skilling initiatives.
Malaysia’s minister of investment, trade and industry, Zafrul Abdul Aziz, praised the partnership with Microsoft, highlighting Malaysia’s emergence as a tech investment destination. He expressed optimism about the impact of Microsoft’s investments in cloud and AI infrastructure, which will enhance Malaysia’s digital capacity and position the country within the global tech landscape.
This announcement follows similar investments by Microsoft in Indonesia and Thailand, reflecting a broader effort to support AI development globally. Consulting firm Kearney has estimated that AI could contribute nearly $1 trillion to Southeast Asia’s GDP by 2030, underscoring the potential impact of such investments.
Microsoft’s recent initiatives also include investments in Japan and the UAE-based AI firm G42, as the tech giant continues to expand its support for AI development worldwide. With a focus on AI and cloud services, Microsoft aims to foster innovation and economic growth in various countries, including Malaysia.