Google and Microsoft Applaud Malaysia’s AI Efforts
Google and Microsoft lauded Malaysia’s comprehensive AI roadmap, with a focus on infrastructure, workforce development, and education.
Google’s Commitment to Malaysia’s AI Development
KUALA LUMPUR – Google has lauded Malaysia’s ambitious strategy for developing AI infrastructure, under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, with the tech company investing US$2 billion (RM8.93 billion) in the nation.
Karan Bhatia, Google’s Vice President of Government Affairs and Public Policy, spoke at the APEC Summit in Peru, underscoring that Malaysia’s well-thought-out AI infrastructure planning was a driving factor behind the US$2 billion investment in a new data centre.
Google’s Infrastructure Investment to Meet Global Demand
In May 2024, Google announced its US$2 billion investment, which includes the construction of Malaysia’s first data centre and the launch of a Google Cloud region to address growing demand for cloud services. Additionally, Google will offer AI education programs for students and teachers. This initiative is expected to have a US$3.2 billion (RM14.29 billion) economic impact and create 26,500 jobs by 2030.
Microsoft Endorses Malaysia’s AI Roadmap for Future Growth
Microsoft’s Zia Mansoor, Vice President of Data and AI, also praised the National AI Roadmap, calling it an extensive plan focused on both AI infrastructure and upskilling. At the APEC CEO Summit, Mansoor remarked on the roadmap’s strength and vision.
“It’s an inclusive approach, considering both the technological infrastructure and the upskilling of the workforce in AI,” Mansoor said. The roadmap also includes the establishment of a government AI Centre of Excellence to ensure effective use of AI in public sector initiatives.
Prime Minister Anwar on AI Ecosystem Development
Prime Minister Anwar, on November 15, engaged in talks with Google in Peru, with discussions centered on data centres and AI. He emphasized the importance of strengthening the AI ecosystem and addressing challenges such as data protection and exploitation. Anwar also reiterated Malaysia’s readiness to adapt its policies to attract new high-value investments.
