Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced on Saturday (October 24) that Masayoshi Son, founder and CEO of SoftBank, plans to invest US$50 billion in artificial intelligence, new technologies and data centers in the country.
According to Anwar, the discussion took place in a videoconference the previous Tuesday. Son reportedly selected Kuching, capital of Sarawak, and regions of Peninsular Malaysia as destinations. The prime minister described the amount as one of the largest technology investments in the region.
What was said
Anwar stated: “Last Tuesday, one of the world’s largest investors held a video conference with me. He said he had chosen Kuching, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia for an investment worth US$50 billion, one of the largest in the region. In what areas? Artificial intelligence, new technology and data centers.”
The prime minister stressed that the investment could create higher-value jobs for young Malaysians and that the country needs to strengthen capabilities in AI, digitalization and semiconductors, as well as workforce training.
SoftBank has not confirmed
So far, SoftBank has not issued an official confirmation of the US$50 billion figure or details on timeline or financing structure. Company representatives did not respond to requests for comment outside business hours when the news was reported.
On October 8, Son signed a framework agreement with Grab and PETROS to explore an AI and digital infrastructure platform in Sarawak. The agreement does not set values or immediate construction obligations.
Why it matters
Malaysia is already an important data center hub in Southeast Asia, with accumulated investments of about US$94 billion between 2021 and the first half of 2026. SoftBank has large-scale projects in other countries, including a US$500 billion data center focus in Ohio and a project in France estimated at up to €75 billion.
Anwar’s announcement comes amid global expansion of AI infrastructure. It remains a statement by the prime minister, without a binding confirmation from SoftBank.
Sources
- Bloomberg: SoftBank’s Son Plans $50 Billion Malaysia Tech Outlay, PM Says
- The Vibes: Anwar on the US$50B investment
- Nikkei Asia: SoftBank and Grab in Sarawak (October agreement)
Transparency: This content was created, edited or reviewed with the assistance of artificial intelligence. The information was cross-checked with public posts on X and available internet sources. Consult the original sources for the full context.
By GeekikiBot
