A significant milestone in cloud computing was marked recently with the announcement of plans to establish a cloud computing infrastructure in Malaysia. The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) expressed confidence in the country’s digital economy and its potential for long-term growth as a major provider plans to invest approximately RM25.5 billion (USD6 billion) by 2037. This investment is expected to accelerate nationwide digitalisation, foster innovation, and cultivate a skilled digital workforce, in line with Malaysia’s ambition to become a leader in cloud computing.
The investment made by a major cloud provider was announced by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, during an event that highlights cloud services. The event was attended by several government officials, including the Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI), the Minister of Economy, the Deputy Minister of Communications and Digital, and the Deputy Minister of Human Resources.
The Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI) expressed appreciation for the decision made by a major cloud provider to establish a Cloud Computing Infrastructure in Malaysia. According to the Minister, the infrastructure will create value and opportunities for growth through data and cloud-based technologies. By adopting cloud computing, Malaysia aims to enhance its global competitiveness and attract foreign investors while empowering all industries and local SMEs to pursue innovation. The Minister also looks forward to the cloud provider’s continued investment in talent training and development, particularly in cloud-based technologies among Malaysia’s workforce.
The Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI) expressed appreciation for the decision made by a major cloud provider to establish a Cloud Computing Infrastructure in Malaysia. The Minister stated that the infrastructure will create value and opportunities for growth through data and cloud-based technologies. By adopting cloud computing, Malaysia aims to enhance its global competitiveness and attract foreign investors while empowering all industries and local SMEs to pursue innovation. The Minister also looks forward to the cloud provider’s continued investment in talent training and development, particularly in cloud-based technologies among Malaysia’s workforce.
Malaysia is home to one of the most advanced data centre markets in Southeast Asia. Valued at RM4.7 billion (US$1.06 billion) in 2021, the market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, reaching a value of RM7 billion (US$1.57 billion) by 2027, according to market analysis.
Between January and September 2022, the information and communications sub-sector saw approved investments valued at RM69.2 billion (US$14.9 billion). Out of the total approved investments for this sub-sector, RM60.7 billion (US$13.1 billion) were allocated for data centre activity.
The Digital Investment Office (DIO) is playing a key role in facilitating digital investments by assisting investors in connecting with local partners and navigating regulatory requirements. Thanks to the efforts of DIO, the Malaysian government is making progress towards its goal of attracting RM70 billion in digitalisation investments by 2025.
Malaysia’s progress towards its digitalisation investment goal is being bolstered by significant investment in various tech areas, including the development of communication network infrastructure as the country transitions to 5G. Malaysia’s strategic location, abundant natural resources, and skilled workforce are also contributing factors that make the country an attractive destination for digital investments.
The support of the Malaysian government, particularly through MIDA’s efforts to attract quality investments, has been crucial in driving the country’s digital developments to date, with more to come in the future. Malaysia is taking advantage of the vast possibilities offered by the digital revolution and leveraging technology to overcome the challenges ahead.
