A Hong Kong firm will invest over RM9 billion to build Melaka’s first AI data centre, boosting the state’s digital infrastructure and creating skilled jobs.

MELAKA: The state is set to receive an investment exceeding RM9 billion to develop its first artificial intelligence-based data centre.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said Hong Kong-based Victoria Data Centre intends to build the facility with a capacity of about 100 megawatts in Jasin.

“We will include this in the state investment quota for 2025 and it will also be tabled at the upcoming Melaka State Legislative Assembly meeting,” he told reporters.

He was speaking at the Melaka State Executive Council Day Programme with the People at the Seri Negeri Complex.

The Malaysian Investment Development Authority stated the mega project will be implemented in phases.

It involves constructing three data centre buildings with a capacity of up to 96MW.

MIDA said the initiative will position Melaka as a competitive destination for high-tech digital infrastructure.

The agency attributed the large-scale investment to recent discussions held by Ab Rauf with the Chinese government.

It is expected to significantly transform the state’s economic landscape by strengthening the digital ecosystem.

The project will also drive the adaptation of Industry 4.0 elements and empower AI development.

“This development also opens up opportunities for technology transfer and the creation of highly skilled job opportunities for the local population,” MIDA said.

The agency added the effort supports Melaka’s aspiration to become a sustainable innovation hub.

 The Sun Malaysia