Headline: GDS International Announces RM1 Billion Investment to Boost Malaysia’s Data Center Supply Chain Hub
Transformational Summit Highlights Malaysia’s Digital Growth
JOHOR BAHRU, Malaysia, Oct. 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — The recent Data Center Supply Chain Ecosystem Summit, hosted by GDS International (GDSI) on October 27, 2024, in Johor Bahru, marked a significant milestone in Malaysia’s evolution as a central hub for data centers and advanced manufacturing. The event drew more than 400 participants, including government officials, industry leaders, and global suppliers from China, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, the US, and Europe, highlighting the country’s rising stature in the global digital landscape.
At this high-profile event, GDSI unveiled a promising RM1 billion investment plan through its supplier network aimed at establishing integrated factories and service centers throughout Malaysia. This initiative is projected to generate an annual output exceeding RM5 billion and create over 5,000 jobs, reaffirming GDSI’s commitment to transform Malaysia into a global supply chain and advanced manufacturing hub for the data center industry.
Investments and Partnerships to Drive Local Growth
The summit showcased an extensive supplier network, crucial for propelling Malaysia’s digital economy. Notably, five major suppliers—EPG, Longmotive, Cooltech, Morimatsu Dialog, and Wasion Energy—announced a collective commitment of RM360 million to develop new manufacturing facilities, which are anticipated to create more than 700 local jobs.
William Huang, Chairman of GDS International, stated, "With GDS International’s large-scale data center developments and in response to the significant demand from Malaysia’s market and future international markets, we aim to build a supply chain ecosystem in Malaysia that serves global needs." This vision aligns with Malaysia’s national strategy, significantly contributing to job creation and enhancing export capabilities.
The announcement was complemented by strategic partnerships with multimedia leaders such as Multimedia University (MMU) and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). These collaborations are designed to bridge the gap between talent development and industry demands by offering internships, joint research, and specialized courses, thus preparing Malaysia’s workforce for future opportunities.
Setting Standards for Industry Excellence
One of the summit’s highlights was the presentation of the first Data Center Calibration Certificate to GDS International by SIRIM, a significant step toward establishing industry standards in performance and sustainability. This recognition underscores GDSI’s commitment to operational excellence within the data center sector.
Jamie Khoo, CEO of GDS International, emphasized the importance of these initiatives: "Today’s achievements are just the beginning. Our commitment to integrating international supply chains with Malaysia’s local partners will foster a collaborative ecosystem that enhances skills, operational efficiency, and innovation.
Government Leaders Show Strong Support
The summit gained extensive political support, evidenced by the presence of key government figures such as the Chief Minister of Johor, YAB Dato’ Onn Hafiz Bin Ghazi, and Minister of Digital YB Gobind Singh Deo. Chief Minister Dato’ Onn commended GDS International’s endeavors, remarking, "I wish to record an appreciation for GDS International and its partners, which demonstrates the strength of Johor’s ecosystem for data centers and technology-driven growth." He accentuated the importance of both scale and quality in Johor’s data offerings.
Minister of Digital YB Gobind Singh Deo spoke on the significance of a robust supply chain for the country’s economy: "Johor is becoming one of the largest data center hubs in the country, and GDS International’s commitment shows their confidence in our thriving digital economy."
Fostering Collaboration and Regional Innovation
The summit witnessed collaborative efforts to innovate and develop Malaysia’s technological landscape, with notable strategic partners including MIDA, MDEC, IRDA, Invest Johor, SIRIM, and PLANMalaysia. YB Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA, expressed the potential this initiative holds for local businesses, stating, "Data centers provide a veritable goldmine of opportunities for our small and medium-sized enterprises to plug into the global value chain."
The full-day summit featured exhibitions, awards ceremonies, focused presentations, and panel discussions led by experts from major organizations including Deloitte, Schneider Electric, PwC, and UOB, further enriching the dialogue around data center advancements and supply chain optimization.
A Vision for the Future
As GDS International forges ahead with its ambitious plans, the implications for Malaysia’s digital landscape are profound. The commitment to fostering local talent while also attracting international investments sets a precedent for growth and sustainability in the region. As the data center industry continues to expand, the integration of advanced technologies and eco-friendly practices will be pivotal in shaping Malaysia’s future as a global leader.
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For more details on GDS International and its initiatives, visit GDS International Official Site.
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