Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said the company will provide education and training to 200,000 people.
Following similar announcements in Indonesia and Thailand, Microsoft announced it will invest $2.2 billion in artificial intelligence and cloud infrastructure in Malaysia to support the country's digital transformation.
Thursday's announcement by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella includes plans to establish an AI center of excellence and provide education and training to 200,000 people in the Southeast Asian country. .
“We are committed to supporting Malaysia's AI transformation and ensuring that it benefits all Malaysians,” Nadella said in Kuala Lumpur as the final stop on a three-nation tour of Southeast Asia.
“Our investments in digital infrastructure and skills will help Malaysian businesses, communities and developers apply the latest technologies to drive inclusive economic growth and innovation across the country.”
Malaysian Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Zafrul Abdul Aziz said the investment reflected a “deep partnership based on trust”.
“Indeed, Malaysia's status as a vibrant technology investment destination is increasingly recognized as a globally recognized name thanks to its well-established semiconductor ecosystem, and we believe that 'the world begins here'. '', he said.
“The development of significant cloud and AI infrastructure by Microsoft, along with the opportunity to acquire AI skills, will significantly strengthen Malaysia’s digital capabilities and further strengthen our position in the global technology sector. Together, we look forward to riding the AI revolution and accelerating Malaysia's digital growth journey, while creating more opportunities for SMEs and better-paying jobs for our people.”
Earlier this week, Nadella announced multibillion-dollar investments in AI and cloud services in Indonesia and Thailand.
Global consulting firm Kearney estimates that AI could contribute nearly $1 trillion to Southeast Asia's gross domestic product (GDP) by 2030.
Microsoft is stepping up support for AI development around the world, with recent efforts including a major investment in G42, an AI company based in Japan and the United Arab Emirates.