Microsoft to invest $2.2Bln in cloud, AI technologies in Malaysia

Addis Ababa, May 2, 2024 (FBC) – U.S. tech giant Microsoft said on Thursday it will channel $2.2 billion over the coming four years to push forward Malaysia’s transformation into a cloud computing and generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies hub.

“Microsoft announced it will invest US$2.2 billion over the next four years to support Malaysia’s digital transformation – the single largest investment in its 32-year history in the country,” the company said in a statement.

Microsoft added that this disbursement demonstrated its commitment “to developing Malaysia as a hub for cloud computing and related advanced technologies, including generative AI.”

As part of the investment, it is planned to build cloud and AI infrastructure in the country, setting up a national AI center in partnership with the Malaysian government, collaborating with the National Cyber Security Agency of Malaysia (NACSA) and spearheading AI use in the public sector via other projects with Malaysia’s agencies and ministries.

The investment comes on top of growing demand for cloud computing services in the country, with the funding expected to benefit 200,000 people by providing AI skills training opportunities, the company said.

Microsoft made a similar investment pledge in Indonesia worth $1.7 billion on Tuesday. Sputnik