GDS and MIDA highlight key partnerships to accelerate the growth of Malaysia’s data centre supply chain ecosystem 

Key Highlights of the Data Centre Supply Chain Ecosystem Summit:
 
·  MOU Exchange between GDS and SIRIM to boost quality and standards of data centre industry
 
·  MOU Exchange with global suppliers forging stronger connections in Malaysia's data centre supply chain
 
·  GDS launches talent programs to train skilled digital professionals
 
·  400 attendees from the data centre supply chain ecosystem attended the summit, showcasing the latest in trend technology 

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 28 (Bernama) -- GDS International, a leading developer and operator of high-performance data centres, with Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) as the strategic partner has successfully hosted the Data Centre Supply Chain Ecosystem Summit in Johor on 27 October 2024. The event gathered over 400 attendees across the data centre supply chain, as well as industry leaders and key government agencies, showcasing the latest technology trends, reaffirming Malaysia’s position as a key player in the global digital economy.  

The summit featured the exchange of a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between GDS and SIRIM to improve quality and standards in the data centre industry. Additionally, GDS also exchanged MOUs with global suppliers, further strengthening Malaysia's data centre supply chain. These partnerships will bring an estimated RM1 billion investment for integrated factories and service centers, contributing over RM5 billion annually to the economy and creating up to 5,000 local jobs. 

YB Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), commended the collaboration between MIDA, GDS, and key industry stakeholders, stating, "The partnerships established today exemplify the government's commitment to cultivate an ecosystem that nurtures technological advancement and innovation, strengthening the foundation and development of the country’s digital infrastructure.

The five key considerations for the data centre industry should be:
1. Creation of meaningful job opportunities
2. Localisation of its supply chain
3. Water consumption
4. Power consumption
5. Prevention of speculative build

I am glad to note that GDS, a key player in Malaysia's data centre industry, has hosted this summit in alignment with our goals to empower local companies for active participation in the data centre supply chain.” 

Witnessing this momentous occasion, Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA, stated, “Positioned at the heart of the region, Malaysia's expanding network of data centres and cloud infrastructure is crucial for facilitating cross-border data flow. Beyond data storage and processing, these data centres provide a veritable goldmine of opportunities for our small and medium-sized enterprises to plug into the global value chain. And, this in turn fosters the development of our local talent, drives technological innovation, and fuels economic growth within the ecosystem.” 

GDS's leadership expressed their continued commitment to advancing Malaysia’s digital landscape. "The success of this summit reflects the strength of Malaysia's data centre supply chain and our shared vision to build a sustainable digital future. Malaysia is a land of opportunity and innovation, and we are dedicated to harnessing this potential by fostering collaboration across the industry and with key stakeholders. Together, we can drive significant growth, enhance our capabilities, and position Malaysia as a leading hub for data centre services in the region," said William Huang, Chairman of GDS.

Malaysia is making remarkable strides in its digital economy, with an approved RM185.3 billion in digital investments from 2021 to June 2024. Data centre and cloud investments accounted for the lion's share of these total approved investments, at RM131 billion. This serves as a testament that Malaysia is on the right track towards becoming a leading digital hub in the region. 

Associated images for the media release can be found at:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/118Jm82Jjosr3z9vkemSdmSY8RIbZPmzs

About MIDA 

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 21 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

About GDS

GDS is a leading developer and operator of high-performance data centers in Asia. Our facilities are strategically located in primary economic hubs where demand for highperformance data center services is concentrated. With a track record spanning 23 years, GDS has successfully delivered services to some of the largest and most demanding customers in need of outsourced data center solutions. Recognizing the potential for growth in Asia, GDS established its international headquarters in Singapore in 2021. 

SOURCE: Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
MIDA
Name: Ms. Noorzita Mohamad Nor
Director, Business Services and Regional Operations, MIDA
Tel: +603-2267 3635 
Email: noorzita@mida.gov.my

GDS
Email: marketing@gds-international.com

--BERNAMA