TECH giant Microsoft Corp announced its plans to invest a staggering RM10.5 billion in Malaysia’s cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure which will boost and provide a gamechanger in the country’s economy.

Last Thursday, Microsoft’s chairman and CEO Satya Nadella outlined the company’s ambitious plan to establish a world-class AI infrastructure and provide AI skilling opportunities for 200,000 Malaysians.

“We want to ensure we have world-class infrastructure right here in the country so that every organisation and start-up can benefit,” he said in an event in Kuala Lumpur (KL).

This investment will also bolster collaboration with the government to establish a National AI Centre of Excellence and enhance cyber security capabilities.

Microsoft’s cloud and AI infrastructure promises to unleash a ripple effect of opportunities, empowering businesses to thrive in the digital age and cementing Malaysia’s position as a leader in the global tech industry.

Positive Economic Growth Opportunities

Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) economist Carmelo Ferlito (picture) shared insights into the potential ramifications of this big investment.

“This is great news for two reasons. On one side, it creates economic opportunities, on the other, it is an important sign of confidence,” he told The Malaysian Reserve (TMR).

Ferlito said undoubtedly, Microsoft’s substantial investment will have far-reaching implications for Malaysia’s economy.

He added that beyond the infusion of capital, the investment serves as a beacon of confidence, signalling to other potential investors the attractiveness and viability of Malaysia’s technology sector.

“The investment is in itself an FDI and it could signal confidence toward other potential investors,” he noted.

Though it is not automatic, Ferlito said the project has a positive ecosystem.

He said that beyond enhancing IT literacy, it has the potential to catalyse the growth of local companies, forming a robust value chain around the data centre.

“I think the main benefit would not only be the IT literacy that potentially the initiatives can create but also the spillover that can generate in terms of local companies which are going to make up the value chain around the data centre,” he added.

In terms of Malaysia’s global standing in the tech industry, Ferlito believed that Microsoft’s investment serves as a powerful endorsement of the country’s competitiveness and attractiveness to other tech giants.

However, he emphasised that the actual impact will hinge on the execution and outcomes of the project.

“It is a positive signal. It can attract other entrepreneurs, but I think a lot will depend on the actual implementation and results from the project.”

Nevertheless, he was aware of the potential drawbacks and risks associated with such a significant investment.

He highlighted the importance of ensuring a favourable regulatory framework to mitigate these risks and ensure the initiative’s success.

“If, for some reason, the initiative would not be successful, the added value it created will be destroyed. It is important to be sure that the regulatory framework will be favourable for the initiative to thrive,” he noted.

Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) CEO Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said it is excited to deepen its partnership with Microsoft as it underscores the dedication to innovation and regional industry growth.

“This investment not only reinforces Malaysia’s position as a leading digital hub but also marks a promising start in attracting more companies to embark on this digital journey with us, promoting inclusive growth and prosperity nationwide,” he said.

Updates on Microsoft’s Data Centre in Malaysia Microsoft recently secured a contract with Pasukhas Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Pasukhas Group Bhd.

With a total lump sum contract value of RM56.9 million, the project is expected to be completed by June 30, 2025.

Microsoft reportedly acquired a plot of land in Johor. The land, spanning 102,560 sq m in Pulai, was sold by local property development firm Crescendo Corp Bhd (CCB).

CCB’s subsidiary, Panoramic Industrial Development Sdn Bhd, entered a conditional sale and purchase agreement with Microsoft Payments (M) Sdn Bhd for a cash consideration of RM132.4 million.

Microsoft also announced a broader commitment to provide AI skilling opportunities for 2.5 million people in Asean member states by 2025. Other than Malaysia, the company be also be in partnership with governments, nonprofit and business organisations and communities in Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam.

Source: The Malaysian Reserve

Microsoft’s RM10.5b investment in Malaysia — A game changer for the economy

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged all implementing agencies, particularly ministries, to prioritise the training of young people on artificial intelligence (AI) so that the country does not fall behind in this field.

The prime minister said in this regard, training for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) fields should be given emphasis and enhanced by ensuring that anyone interested, including religious school students, benefit from programmes provided by ministries and government agencies.

“TVET needs to be enhanced to meet (investor demands) like three or four days ago when we had Microsoft investing RM10.5 billion, which requires tens of thousands of workers.

“If (the investment involves) the entire ecosystem, then hundreds of thousands of workers need to be trained. Do we have that capability?” Anwar asked while noting that Malaysia currently lacks some 30,000 engineers.

He said this in his speech at the closing ceremony of the Northern Zone Madani Rakyat 2024 programme, held concurrently with the Penang-level Madani Aidilfitri 2024 celebration at Tapak Pesta Sungai Nibong here on Sunday.

Anwar, who is also finance minister, said that AI and TVET-related training must be accessible to all to avoid disparities in capabilities between urban and rural areas.

“If we only offer these courses to urban elites, there will be a gap with people in rural areas. That’s why the opportunity (for training in AI and TVET) must be available to everyone so that they can fully master both fields.

“I hope the federal government will collaborate with state governments to prioritise this new training stage. Otherwise, we will fall behind,” he said.

The prime minister also urged the Education Ministry (MOE) to continue efforts to foster interest among school students in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects, thereby strengthening the AI and TVET fields in the country.

“Our children are less interested in mathematics and science. So I told the MOE that there needs to be a concerted push for this transition to happen immediately,” he said.

In this regard, Anwar said MOE cannot rely on old approaches by setting specific targets, but should instead do it now to ensure the country can compete with other nations.

“Learn from what Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand are doing. They all say that adjustments in the universities and the education system must be done now,” he said.

Addressing the current challenges of AI, he said that young people, especially Muslims, need to adeptly master this new technology to help integrate the principles of the Quran and hadith to safeguard the values upheld in Malaysia.

“If we solely import AI from the West, then we will face problems. Our children must have the expertise to integrate the principles of the Quran, hadith and Islamic criteria in the framework or elements of this AI system.

“So, when new technology enters Malaysia, we will not worry that the West will dictate our values. We can uphold our dignity and values as Malaysian citizens,” he said.

Meanwhile, the prime minister said that Malaysia cannot lag behind in terms of public service efficiency compared to neighbouring countries, especially concerning approval processes, as it is crucial to attract investments.

Therefore, Anwar wants the speed level of investment approval to be on par with other countries like Vietnam.

Source: Bernama

PM wants AI, TVET-related training ramped up for country’s youth

In today’s business world, investors are placing great emphasis on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors.

There is also a growing awareness among businesses of the importance of adopting the ESG agenda in their business practices.

As such, Star Media Group (SMG), with OCBC Bank (Malaysia) Berhad as the main sponsor, is returning with the ESG Positive Impact Awards (ESG PIA), which will honour Malaysian companies that have done well in implementing ESG practices.

SMG group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt said the award will provide companies with market recognition for their commitment to ESG.

“The award will definitely give you market recognition for your commitment to ESG, and it will also enhance the corporate image of participants,” he said.

“In today’s investing world, investors are also quite aware and will emphasise the importance of ESG commitments,” he added.

Aside from attracting investors who prioritise sustainability, he added that the recognition will also enhance a brand’s reputation as a responsible corporate citizen.

“I think the impact is tremendous in today’s corporate landscape.

There is more and more emphasis on the importance of ESG and with this award participation, you are telling the market that you are committed and confident in your own commitment.

That will definitely enhance your market positioning and your brand value,” he said.

The ESG PIA Winners Showcase Agenda was held yesterday with presentations by past winners, Heineken Malaysia Bhd and Geomax Rubber Innovative Products Sdn Bhd.

OCBC Bank’s Wholesale Banking managing director, Jeffrey Teoh Nee Teik, said ESG principles have laid the foundation for sustainable business practices.

“I think it sets the whole impact in terms of how businesses engage in environmental impacts, for example, pollution control, scarcity of resources, and managing climate change,” he said.

In addition to the environmental aspect, he said there is also the social aspect, such as human rights.

“These are all critical factors that govern the way businesses should be run in the future, and this is going to be crucial in terms of importance to all the stakeholders, such as governments, regulatory bodies, and future investors,” he said.

Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) senior director Dr Meenachi Muniandy said since the ministry introduced the National Industry Environmental, Social and Governance Framework (i-ESG Framework) in October last year, there has been an evolving awareness of ESG, especially among micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“Within a year, MSMEs have evolved a lot in terms of ESG awareness. So definitely, awards like this will help them understand what ESG is all about and how they can adopt ESG practices,” she said.

The ESG Positive Impact Awards 2023 is organised by SMG and endorsed by the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry and Miti, with OCBC Bank as the main sponsor.

Log on to https://staresgawards.com.my/ for more information on the application.

SMG’s ESG PIA 2022 Gala Night, which was held on June 8 last year, to drive positive change and inspire others in the country to embrace sustainability, saw 100 companies participating, with 60 awards being given out.

The awards across 15 categories were presented to the winners at the ESG PIA 2022 Gala Night at the M Resort & Hotel Kuala Lumpur. The submissions were evaluated by a panel of judges based on set criteria across three ESG pillars.

Source: The Star

Honouring eco-conscious firms

The Ministry of Digital said Microsoft’s investment of RM10.5 billion (US$2.2 billion) over the next four years is a sign of trust in Malaysia’s digital prospects and a significant step in advancing the country’s digital economy.

In a joint statement by the Ministry of Digital and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) today, the ministry said the partnership between Microsoft and the government for the establishment of a national AI Centre of Excellence (COE) and the enhancement of the nation’s cybersecurity capabilities is poised to drive further progress in these critical areas.

The ministry also commended Microsoft’s efforts to provide AI training for 200,000 individuals and empower 2,000 Malaysian developers through the AI Odyssey initiative.

“Microsoft has played a pivotal role in numerous collaborative initiatives, including talent development, startup support, and digital adoption for micro small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“This investment reaffirms Microsoft’s commitment to Malaysia’s digital growth and showcases the strength of the partnership,” it said.

The statement said Microsoft’s support has been instrumental in MDEC’s efforts to build a robust digital tech talent pipeline, from schools to tertiary learning institutions, and to reskill and upskill the existing workforce to meet evolving industry demands.

This collaboration has led to the creation of the Premier Digital Tech Institutions (PDTI) network, comprising 42 tech-related faculties across 24 tertiary institutions nationwide, and has fostered a pool of AI-ready local companies within the MDEC ecosystem.

With the support of MDEC, Microsoft’s investment encompasses the creation of global business services and the expansion of data centres in key areas throughout Malaysia.

“Microsoft has also been a key partner in the public sector’s digitalisation agenda, having signed the Cloud Framework Agreement with the government in 2022,” it added.

“The Ministry of Digital looks forward to continued collaboration with Microsoft and other industry leaders to drive innovation, foster digital talent development, and accelerate Malaysia’s journey towards becoming a global digital hub,” the statement said.

Source: NST

Digital Ministry: Microsoft’s investment sign of trust in country’s digital prospects

Microsoft’s decision to invest in Malaysia shows that Malaysia is recognised as a preferred hub in South-East Asia, simultaneously reinforcing the region’s position as an important growth market.

According to Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, this demonstrated Microsoft’s confidence in South-East Asia, and Malaysia’s strategic position as a gateway for growth.

“Microsoft chief executive officer Satya Nadella has met Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim together with a few of my Cabinet colleagues where he expressed his commitment to invest in the next four years, particularly in the areas of data centres and artificial intelligence,” the Investment, Trade and Industry Minister said.

He said this to Bernama on the sidelines of the Bernama Open House 2024, which was held here yesterday.

The American multinational corporation and technology company announced that it is committed to invest US$2.2bil (RM10.5bil) in Malaysia’s cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) and US$1.7bil in Indonesia.

“Microsoft’s investment in the infrastructure over the next four years will upskill 300,000 Malaysians and accelerate the nation’s digital transformation journey,” Tengku Zafrul said.

Earlier, the ministry said that the multinational move also supports Malaysia’s national initiative to embrace new enabling technology, including AI and generative AI, which could unlock US$113.4bil in productive capacity in Malaysia.

The investment will also power up the nation’s economic growth and inclusivity through innovative, cutting-edge technology, it said in a statement.

Malaysia’s steadfast commitment to robust digital infrastructure has convinced many globally recognised multinationals to establish or expand their presence here, as evidenced by the significant RM144.7bil in digital investments approved from 2021 to 2023.

Meanwhile, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority said that Microsoft’s ongoing investment in Malaysia underscores the country’s allure as a prime digital investment destination, boasting a compelling ecosystem for companies looking to establish operations in the region.

Its chief executive officer Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said this continued investment endorses Malaysia’s preparedness to emerge as a leading centre for technology, drawing significant interest from major tech enterprises.

“As digitalisation increasingly reshapes global economies, we welcome Microsoft’s announcement of new investments in Malaysia.

“We look forward to continuing to work with Microsoft to foster innovation in startups, create jobs, and harness the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) for the betterment of Malaysian society,” he said in a statement yesterday.

Microsoft’s substantial US$2.2bil investment in cloud and AI infrastructure over the next four years, aligned with the “Bersama Malaysia” initiative launched in 2021.

This initiative aims to elevate Malaysia as a premier digital hub, bolstering economic growth and inclusivity through innovative technology.

“We believe that Microsoft’s cloud and AI infrastructure will create a ripple effect of opportunities that bridge the digital divide while empowering businesses to thrive in the digital age.

“Malaysia has been taking steps to master and make good use of AI. By leveraging AI, this initiative promises to unlock new possibilities for innovation, economic growth and inclusivity,” Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim said.

He added that Malaysia’s robust commitment to digital infrastructure has laid a strong foundation for its journey towards digitalisation.

“As the country advances, the rise of AI is poised to drive transformative changes across our digital ecosystem-from talent development to software applications and infrastructural enhancements, ensuring Malaysia remains at the forefront of innovation and progress.”

Source: The Star

Investment signals rise in regional tech landscape

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes are set to be enhanced to address the shortage of 30,000 engineers in the country, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He also emphasised the importance of focusing on Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to keep pace with current demands.

“I mentioned it in front of all the leadership in the country about our concerns regarding moral values, our identity as Malaysians, and our culture in defending this new technology.

“We are also striving to maintain our faith and morality in accordance with our religious understanding,” he said, adding that that AI technology would also be integrated into the curriculum for students in Tahfiz schools or TVET programmes.

He said this while speaking at the Kelantan-level 2024 Madani Aidilfitri Celebration at RTC Tunjong her on Thursday.

Anwar also assured the Kelantan state government and its people that in terms of TVET training, engineering training, or AI training, the government would provide equal opportunities for Kelantanese youths to excel in these fields.

He stressed that all these advancements should be emphasised in religious education, ensuring that the younger generation does not lag behind.

He said that to realise the effort, Microsoft had expressed interest in investing RM10.5 billion for the development of AI technology in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, Anwar expressed confidence that the more than 13% salary increase announced yesterday for civil servants would receive support from all Members of Parliament.

“I don’t think there will be a problem in approving the additional salary increases for civil servants effective Dec 1.

“Which Member of Parliament would oppose the government’s efforts to increase civil servants’ salaries? Moreover, Kelantan has also expressed its support and acknowledged it as a good proposal,” he said.

On Wednesday, Anwar announced that the salary increase of more than 13% for civil servants from December this year was an effort to balance the income between lower and higher grade workers.

He said under the new Civil Service Remuneration System (SSPA) which was being finalised, the government would also increase salaries to ensure that the minimum income of civil servants exceeded RM2,000 per month compared with the current minimum of RM1,795 per month which includes basic wage and fixed allowances.

Source: Bernama

TVET in Malaysia to be enhanced to address shortage of 30,000 engineers — PM

With high-technology investments continuing to come in from China to Malaysia, it is crucial to develop a larger skilled workforce, says a trade group.

A prominent local vocational institution has also called on Malaysian youth to leverage this upcoming trend and equip themselves well for the market.

China Entrepreneurs Association in Malaysia (PUCM) president Datuk Keith Li said more skilled workers should be trained to meet business needs.

“The investments are coming in, but we need to look at the available manpower.

“The country needs more local skilled workers and technicians to cope with fast growing business needs,” said Li, who was part of the 200-member trade delegation from Malaysia during Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s maiden visit there as Prime Minister.

Li said the smart technology, cloud computing and digital transformation industries were among the sectors that made investments in Malaysia.

He said Malaysia was a good choice for Chinese investors, with government relations playing an important role.

“They are also impressed by the stability and business-friendly policies here. Malaysia as a whole is good in terms of value, investment, cost of living, and also the living environment,” he said.

When compared to neighbouring countries in the region, Li said Malaysia could add value by having a more streamlined and efficient approval process for key posts at the management level.

He said PUCM is also organising the China Smart Industry, Trade and Culture exhibition in Kuala Lumpur later this month.

It acts as a platform for both Malaysian and Chinese enterprises to interact with one another.

Vocational Training College Malaysia Institute chief executive officer Tan Cheng Liang said Malaysian youth should utilise this opportunity to ensure they are well-prepared for the market.

“The World Economy Forum predicted that 69 million jobs will be created and 83 million jobs destroyed, leading to a contraction of global labour markets of 14 million jobs in the next five years at the present rate of change.

“There will be new jobs where 60% will be based on TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training).

“It is the right direction for students to be serious about taking up TVET now, emulating Germany, where 60% of their youth are into TVET, which is their mainstream education,” she said in an interview yesterday.

While less than 30% of Malaysian students pursue TVET, she believes that more are unwilling to study science.

Source: The Star

Look into TVET to prepare country for industrial boom

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Microsoft’s RM10.5 billion (US$2.2 billion) investment in Malaysia demonstrates its confidence in the country’s strong economic foundation, clear and focused policies, investor-friendly environment, and political stability.

In postings on social media, Anwar said the investment is in line with, and will be a major contributor to the government’s focus on developing AI capacity in the country.

Anwar received a courtesy visit from Microsoft chairman and chief executive officer, Satya Nadella, and his delegation in Putrajaya earlier today.

Microsoft today announced that the technology giant will increase investments in Malaysia by RM10.5 billion over the next four years.

Anwar said the amount is the largest investment at one time by Microsoft after operating for 32 years in Malaysia.

The investment includes the development of cloud systems and infrastructure and Artificial Intelligence (AI), creating AI skills opportunities for an additional 300,000 people, establishing a National AI Excellence Center, enhancing the country’s cybersecurity capabilities, and supporting the growth of the system developer community in Malaysia.

“After the courtesy visit, Satya and I then attended the National AI Leadership Forum. We had the opportunity to discuss technology-related matters, namely AI, and the government’s plans to prepare the country for this changing landscape.May this collaboration between Malaysia and Microsoft bring significant benefits to the country and its people as a whole,” added Anwar.

Source: NST

PM Anwar: Microsoft’s RM10.5bil investment demonstrates its confidence in Malaysia

Microsoft will invest RM10.5 billion over the next four years to support Malaysia’s digital transformation – the single largest investment in its 32-year history in the country.

Microsoft chairman and chief executive officer Satya Nadella said the company aims to build a “world class AI infrastructure” that will be made available to Malaysia.

Its investment includes building cloud and AI infrastructure in Malaysia as well as creating AI skilling opportunities for an additional 200,000 people in the country.

Via the investment, Microsoft also plans to strengthen partnership with the government to establish a national AI Centre of Excellence and enhance the nation’s cybersecurity capabilities.

“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,” said Nadella during the Microsoft Build: AI Day here today.

Separately in a statement, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) stated this initiative is part of the ongoing Bersama Malaysia commitment since 2021.

The commitment is set to transform Malaysia into a leading digital hub, starkly enhancing economic growth and inclusivitythrough innovative technology.

MIDA noted this investment as a promising development that distinguishes Malaysia as a top destination for digital investment.

MIDA CEO Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said Malaysia is poised to establish itself as a leading digital hub, attracting major tech enterprises.

“As digitalisation increasingly redefines global economies, we welcome Microsoft’s announcement of new investment in Malaysia and we look forward to continue to work with Microsoft, a world leader in the digital field, to foster innovation in start ups, create jobs and harness the transformative power of AI for the betterment of Malaysia’s society. “AI now stands as a pivotal game-changing technology that impacts us all.

“Microsoft’s decision to continue investing in Malaysia highlights Malaysia’s attractiveness as a preferred digital investment destination that offers a compelling ecosystem for companies seeking to establish its operation in the region,” he said.

He added Microsoft’s cloud and AI infrastructure will create a ripple effect of opportunities that bridge the digital divide while empowering businesses to thrive in the digital age.

Source: NST

Microsoft to invest RM10.5bil in Malaysia’s cloud and AI infrastructure

The additional investment by Microsoft amounting to US$2.2 billion or RM10.5 billion in the country over the next four years is the largest single investment by the company in its 32 years in Malaysia.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the investment will greatly support the government’s focus on developing artificial intelligence (AI) capacity in the country.

“This investment covers the development of cloud systems and infrastructure and AI, the creation of AI skill opportunities for an additional 300,000 people, the establishment of a National AI Centre of Excellence, enhancing the nation’s cyber security capabilities and supporting the growth of the system developer community in Malaysia.

“Malaysia welcomes this investment decision which proves their confidence in the country’s strong economic base, clear and focused policies, in addition to investor friendliness and political stability,“ he said in his Facebook post.

The Prime Minister said he and Satya Nadella, the chairman and chief executive officer of Microsoft, attended the National AI Leadership Forum after receiving a courtesy visit from him and his delegation in Putrajaya today.

“We had a dialogue regarding matters that touched on technology, namely AI and the government’s plans to prepare the country for change in this area.

“Hopefully this collaboration between Malaysia and Microsoft can bring significant benefits to the country and the people as a whole,“ he said.

Source: The Sun

Microsoft investment is company’s largest single investment ever in Malaysia — PM Anwar

Microsoft’s RM10.5 billion (US$2.2 billion) investment into Malaysia’s cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure firmly positions the country as a preferred destination for digital investments, said the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI).

It also supports Malaysia’s national initiative to embrace new, enabling technologies, including AI and Generative AI, which could unlock US$113.4 billion in productive capacity in Malaysia.

Microsoft today committed to investments in cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure in Malaysia that will help transform the country into a leading digital hub regionally, while targeting to skill 300,000 Malaysians.

Microsoft chairman and chief executive officer Satya Nadella made the announcement during the AI National Leadership Forum in Putrajaya, which was graced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

“This strategic partnership with Microsoft is what was envisaged by Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP2030). It not only helps us embrace tech rapidly, but also fosters innovation, as well as economic security and inclusivity. While our priority is to attract quality investments, we are also looking for partners who can help champion our commitment to empower our small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and people – through new, enabling technologies, including AI – so that they can also reap the benefits of a more vibrant digital economy in Malaysia. Microsoft’s RM10.5 billion committed investment is an accelerated step towards that positive outcome,” MITI Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz said, in a statement.

Transformative technologies such as machine learning, natural language processing, and predictive analytics, powered by cloud and AI services, have the potential to empower businesses of all sizes – including start-ups and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) – to unlock their potential by driving differentiation and market competitiveness.

Zafrul added that Malaysia’s steadfast commitment to robust digital infrastructure has convinced many globally-recognised multinationals to establish or expand their presence here, as evidenced by the significant RM144.7 billion in digital investments approved from 2021 to 2023.

“As MITI actively nurtures an empowering digital ecosystem that will drive tech-based solutions across various sectors, it will also strengthen our value proposition that Malaysia is where global starts, or is the place to be for companies wishing to forge their regional and global operating success,” he said.

Microsoft chairman and chief executive officer Satya Nadella said Microsoft is committed to supporting Malaysia’s AI transformation, ensuring 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,” he added.

Source: NST

MITI: Microsoft investment positions Malaysia as preferred destination for digital investments