Microsoft Corp. today announced that it will invest $2.2 billion in Malaysia over a four-year period, building a new cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure in the country and partnering with the government to open a National AI Center.

“We are committed to supporting Malaysia’s AI transformation and ensure it benefits all Malaysians,” said Microsoft Chief Executive Satya Nadella. “Our investments in digital infrastructure and skilling will help Malaysian businesses, communities and developers apply the latest technology to drive inclusive economic growth and innovation across the country.”

The company has recently announced a slew of major investments around the world, mostly concentrated on artificial intelligence. Earlier this week, as Nadella was on his Asian tour, he announced a $1.7 billion investment in Indonesia. “This new generation of AI is reshaping how people live and work everywhere, including in Indonesia,” Nadella said. “The investments we are announcing today — spanning digital infrastructure, skilling, and support for developers — will help Indonesia thrive in this new era.”

It’s expected that in Indonesia, Microsoft’s investment will lead to AI training for what the company expects to be 840,000 people. Its cloud and AI plans in Malaysia will create AI skilling opportunities for around 200,000 people.

“We are honored to collaborate with the government to support their National AI Framework, which enhances the country’s global competitiveness,” said YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade & Industry. “This strategic emphasis on AI not only boosts economic growth but also promotes inclusivity by bridging the digital divide and ensuring everyone gets a seat at the table, so every Malaysian can thrive in this new digital world.”

This followed the announcement of a $2.9 billion investment plan in Japan and a further $1.5 billion in Abu Dhabi. Thailand will also see investments in new cloud and AI infrastructure. In all, Microsoft has pledged to spend a total of around $5.6 billion throughout Asia.

Last year, the company pledged $3.2 billion to the development of the U.K.’s AI economy, a massive project including training, research, safety and services. Just last month, the company said it planned to help make London one of the world’s major centers of AI development.

Photo: BoliviaInteligente/Unsplash