Google is making a significant commitment to Malaysia, with plans to invest RM9.4 billion ($2 billion USD) to develop its first data centre and a new cloud facility in the country. This marks Google’s largest planned investment in Malaysia, as highlighted by Ruth Porat, Chief Financial Officer of Alphabet Inc., in a statement on Thursday.
The investment underscores Google’s confidence in Malaysia’s potential, aiming to bolster the nation’s digital infrastructure. Google’s initiative comes shortly after Microsoft’s announcement of a RM10.4 billion ($2.2 billion USD) investment over the next four years to enhance Malaysia’s cloud and AI infrastructure.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised Google’s investment, viewing it as a testament to the country’s economic stability and governance. “This investment is expected to contribute RM15 billion ($3.2 billion USD) to the economy and create 26,500 jobs by 2030,” Anwar stated on Thursday. This development is seen as a strategic win for Anwar as he navigates political challenges from a strong Islamic opposition.
Google’s new data centre and cloud hub will be established in Selangor state’s business park, aiming to meet the rising demand for cloud services and AI education programs for Malaysian students and educators. Malaysia will become the 12th country to host a Google data centre, joining a global network that includes 40 regions and 121 zones currently in operation.
Ruth Porat emphasized the strategic importance of this investment, saying, “This investment builds on our partnership with the government of Malaysia to advance its ‘Cloud First Policy,’ including best-in-class cybersecurity standards.”
The Malaysian Google Cloud hub will cater to large enterprises, startups, and the public sector, reinforcing the country’s position as a growing hub for digital innovation and technological advancement.