Global investor plans US$50bil investment in Malaysia's AI, data centre sectors, says Anwar

MELAKA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said a global investor plans to inject US$50 billion (RM204 billion) into the artificial intelligence (AI), new technology, and data centre sectors in Malaysia.

He said the investor conveyed the intention during a recent video conference, describing the proposed venture across Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia as one of the largest in the region.

Anwar said the investment would create better job opportunities for Malaysians, particularly students in schools and higher learning institutions.

"Last Tuesday, one of the world's largest investors held a video conference with me. The investor said he had chosen Kuching, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia for an investment worth US$50 billion, one of the largest investments in the region.

"In which sectors? AI, new technology and data centre. This means that young people currently studying at universities and in schools must recognise that there will be new opportunities waiting, including better employment opportunities," he said.

Anwar said this at the Sentuhan Kasih Madani Programme and launch of the National Cost of Living Action Plan 2030 (NCLAP30) at the Hang Jebat Sports Complex here yesterday. Also present was Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali.

The prime minister said international investor confidence in Malaysia must be sustained through political stability, firm leadership, and a conducive economic climate.

Anwar cited peace and harmony among the country's multiracial and multireligious communities as a key strength that must be leveraged to attract foreign capital.

"If people don't have confidence in this government, and if the leadership is constantly quarrelling, investors will not be interested in coming here," he said.

Anwar said Malaysia must continue strengthening its capabilities in emerging technologies, particularly AI, digitalisation, and semiconductors, to ensure sustainable economic growth.

He said workforce training and skills development are vital to help Malaysia move beyond back-end technology activities into higher-value middle- and front-end segments.

He said the success in attracting investments must ultimately translate into tangible benefits for the people, including higher living standards and quality jobs.