SoftBank Plans $50 Billion AI Investment in Malaysia

Japan-based SoftBank Group is holding discussions on a $50 billion investment plan focused on artificial intelligence and data centers in Malaysia. This amount equals approximately one-tenth of the country's economy.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated during a speech in Melaka that he held a video conference with SoftBank Chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son last week. According to the speech published by the Prime Minister's Office on October 24, this investment will be implemented in Kuching in the Sarawak state and in Peninsular Malaysia regions, ranking among the largest investments in the region.

According to Nikkei Asia, a portion of the total investment is expected to be covered by SoftBank, while the remaining part is to be provided through financing and other partners. Meanwhile, SoftBank signed a framework agreement on October 8 with Singapore-based Grab Holdings and Petroleum Sarawak to explore the development of an artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure platform in Sarawak.