Introduction to Microsoft’s Cloud Region in Malaysia
Microsoft has officially launched its first cloud region in Malaysia, known as Malaysia West. Located in Greater Kuala Lumpur, this new region includes three availability zones and provides cloud services to meet local data storage needs. With this launch, Malaysian organisations will be able to access Microsoft’s services, such as Azure and Microsoft 365, as well as tools for computing, storage, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
Benefits of the Cloud Region
The region is expected to help reduce latency and improve performance for users in the country. Malaysia’s Minister of Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo, said that the launch supports the government’s goal of moving the country further up the value chain by using digital and AI tools. He added that the government wants to create a strong digital environment for local businesses in line with Microsoft’s stated cloud principles.
Supporting Malaysia’s AI Plans
Microsoft’s Scott Guthrie, who leads the company’s Cloud and AI division, said that the cloud region is designed to support Malaysia’s AI plans and give organisations the tools to build more secure systems. Some companies have already begun to use the new infrastructure, including PETRONAS, FinHero, SCICOM Berhad, Senang, SIRIM Berhad, TNG Digital, and Veeam. Microsoft expects more organisations to join as demand grows for local cloud services.
Economic Impact
IDC estimates that the region could generate about US$10.9 billion in the next four years. Around 17% of that is expected to come directly from the Malaysia West region. IDC also projects that more than 37,000 new jobs could be created, including nearly 6,000 skilled IT roles.
More Local AI Efforts in the Pipeline
During its AI Tour event in Kuala Lumpur, Microsoft introduced BINA AI Malaysia, a programme designed to support local AI development. As part of the effort, Microsoft plans to set up a National AI Innovation Centre in Malaysia. The goal is to help boost AI strategies, build tools, and train talent for future roles. Microsoft is working with EY, the National AI Office under the Ministry of Digital, and the PETRONAS Leadership Centre to explore how the centre can support real-world AI projects and create local talent.
Training 800,000 Malaysians in AI Skills
To help build Malaysia’s AI workforce, Microsoft launched the AIForMYFuture programme in December 2024. Its goal is to train 800,000 people in AI-related skills by the end of 2025. So far, 400,000 people have received some form of training. Participants come from varied backgrounds, including government, businesses, schools, and underserved groups. The company is working with several local groups and training providers to reach its audience.
Conclusion
The launch of Microsoft’s cloud region in Malaysia is a significant step forward for the country’s digital transformation. With the new cloud region and AI initiatives, Malaysia is expected to see significant economic growth and job creation. Microsoft’s efforts to train 800,000 Malaysians in AI skills will also help build a strong workforce for the future.
FAQs
- What is Microsoft’s cloud region in Malaysia called?
Microsoft’s cloud region in Malaysia is called Malaysia West. - Where is the cloud region located?
The cloud region is located in Greater Kuala Lumpur. - What services will be available through the cloud region?
The cloud region will provide access to Microsoft’s services, such as Azure and Microsoft 365, as well as tools for computing, storage, cybersecurity, and data analytics. - How many new jobs is the region expected to create?
The region is expected to create more than 37,000 new jobs, including nearly 6,000 skilled IT roles. - What is the goal of the AIForMYFuture programme?
The goal of the AIForMYFuture programme is to train 800,000 people in AI-related skills by the end of 2025.
