SoftBank identified as investor behind proposed US$50 billion Malaysia projects
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said locations in Kuching and parts of Peninsular Malaysia had been chosen for the planned technology projects.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has named Japan’s SoftBank as the company behind a proposed US$50 billion technology investment in Malaysia, identifying the investor after initially announcing the plans without disclosing its name.
Anwar said SoftBank Group chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son told him during a videoconference that he had selected Kuching, Sarawak, and locations in Peninsular Malaysia. The plans cover artificial intelligence, emerging technologies and data centres.
In his initial announcement, Anwar said the investment could provide jobs for Malaysians, especially younger people, and strengthen national capabilities in AI, digitalisation and semiconductors.
Separately, SoftBank, Grab and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) signed a framework agreement on 8 October to examine the development of an AI and digital infrastructure platform in Sarawak. They will draw up a phased roadmap covering interests including AI computing, services, robotics and workforce and community development.
Under that agreement, SoftBank will provide expertise in AI infrastructure, advanced computing and semiconductors. Grab will contribute its digital ecosystem and applied AI capabilities, while PETROS will provide experience in energy supply, supporting infrastructure and Sarawak’s economic development.
