KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Microsoft's RM10.5 billion (US$2.2 billion) investment in Malaysia demonstrates its confidence in the country's strong economic foundation, clear and focused policies, investor-friendly environment, and political stability.
In postings on social media, Anwar said the investment is in line with, and will be a major contributor to the government's focus on developing AI capacity in the country.
Anwar received a courtesy visit from Microsoft chairman and chief executive officer, Satya Nadella, and his delegation in Putrajaya earlier today.
Microsoft today announced that the technology giant will increase investments in Malaysia by RM10.5 billion over the next four years.
Anwar said the amount is the largest investment at one time by Microsoft after operating for 32 years in Malaysia.
The investment includes the development of cloud systems and infrastructure and Artificial Intelligence (AI), creating AI skills opportunities for an additional 300,000 people, establishing a National AI Excellence Center, enhancing the country's cybersecurity capabilities, and supporting the growth of the system developer community in Malaysia.
"After the courtesy visit, Satya and I then attended the National AI Leadership Forum. We had the opportunity to discuss technology-related matters, namely AI, and the government's plans to prepare the country for this changing landscape.May this collaboration between Malaysia and Microsoft bring significant benefits to the country and its people as a whole," added Anwar.
