The entry of investors like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and various companies choosing Malaysia as a place to set up data centres can turn the nation into an Asian Digital Tiger, said Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil.
Amazon’s decision to invest RM25.5 billion was a sign that more investors see Malaysia as a suitable investment destination for them. “Now many companies are choosing Malaysia as a data processing centre, especially Johor, Cyberjaya and Penang.
“As Malaysia progresses into a data centre hub for the region and beyond, the country could be a training ground for data processing officers in the region,” he told reporters after speaking at the Invest Malaysia (IMKL 2023) event held in Kuala Lumpur.
Fahmi believes the inclusion of these investments also has an impact on the local economy, labour, and the country’s economy he said during a discourse at the Series 1 of IMKL 2023 under the topic of “Developing a Thriving Digital Ecosystem” at which he shared views on a what the nation needs to have for a thriving digital ecosystem to support sustainable development and economic growth.
The conversation was moderated by Maybank Investment Bank Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Fad’l Mohamed.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said stable political administration and clear national policies are key factors as to why AWS chose Malaysia as its investment destination.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said AWS’ RM25.5 billion investment up to 2037 would have a high impact in that it would boost foreign investors’ confidence towards the country.
