Google’s investment of RM9.4 billion is proof of the strength of the economy and is attracting investors, says PM

KUALA LUMPUR: The Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Google’s investment of US$2 billion (RM9.4 billion) was proof of the government’s clear planning, in addition to the country’s economic strength and resources, as an attraction to existing and new investors.

Berita Harian reported, he said that the situation will surely place Malaysia as one of the leading countries in the use and support services for services based on digital technology.

Google today announced an investment commitment of RM9.4 billion in Malaysia, including the development of Google’s first data center in Malaysia and the Google Cloud Region to meet the growing demand for cloud services, both locally and globally, as well as an artificial intelligence (AI) literacy program for students and educators in this country.

Anwar said that Google’s investment will support the government’s agenda in accelerating and smoothing the country’s digital transformation.

“This investment is expected to bring a double impact to the Malaysian economy of around US$3.2 billion (RM15.04 billion) and the creation of 26,500 jobs by 2030,” he said on Facebook.

In a virtual meeting with Google’s senior management on May 6, Anwar said he had emphasized that in addition to support for the use of AI in general, strategic cooperation should be focused in the fields of education, health and agriculture.

“This is important to ensure that Malaysia can take advantage of the latest technology-based skills and approaches,” he said.