Microsoft will invest US $2.2 billion to help Malaysia’s digital transformation over the next four years. The announcement came during the Microsoft Build: AI Day.
“We are committed to supporting Malaysia’s AI transformation and ensure it benefits all Malaysians,” said Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO, of Microsoft.
The goal of the investment is to propel Malaysia’s advancement in AI and cloud infrastructure. The company has given particular emphasis on creating a strong workforce that is skilled in AI. The company estimates nearly 200,000 Malaysians will benefit from this endeavor which includes technical and vocational education on AI, fluency in AI training, and support for women to build careers in cybersecurity.
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Microsoft will also work with the Malaysian government to build a national “AI Center of Excellence”, which will improve the country’s cybersecurity measures. “We are honored to collaborate with the government to support their National AI Framework, which enhances the country’s global competitiveness”, said Andrea Della Mattea, President of Microsoft ASEAN.
Speaking to the press, Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade & Industry said, “Together with Microsoft, we look forward to creating more opportunities for our SMEs and better-paying jobs for our people, as we ride the AI revolution to fast-track Malaysia’s digitally empowered growth journey.”
Microsoft’s investment in Malaysia is part of the company’s larger ambition to support the global development of AI. The company has also announced significant investments in Thailand and Indonesia this week.
