KUCHING, Nov 10 – SoftBank Group, Grab and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) have signed an agreement to advance plans for a US$1 billion (approximately RM4.07 billion) investment in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure in Sarawak.
The proposed investment marks a major step towards developing Sarawak into a regional centre for AI computing and advanced technology.
The three companies signed a Joint Development Agreement (JDA), building on an earlier framework agreement they reached in Kuching on Oct 8, 2026.
Three Companies Share the Investment
The proposed US$1 billion investment will come from three partners.
SoftBank Group will contribute US$800 million, while Grab and PETROS will each provide US$100 million.
However, the companies will release the investment in stages. Funding will depend on development progress, customer contracts and the fulfilment of other required conditions.
The partners also plan to attract additional investors and major technology companies to support the project’s development and future expansion.
Sarawak Targets 5 Gigawatts of AI Computing Capacity
The partnership aims to work towards a long-term target of five gigawatts (GW) of AI computing capacity.
AI computing capacity refers to the processing power needed to train and operate artificial intelligence systems. It requires specialised computer equipment, data centres and reliable energy supplies.
Beyond computing facilities, the partners will explore opportunities across the wider AI industry.
These include AI computing services, advanced technologies, robotics and workforce development. The initiative also aims to create opportunities for local communities.
SoftBank Group Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Masayoshi Son said the partnership would help create long-term opportunities in Sarawak.
He added that the collaboration would support technology-driven economic activities across Malaysia and the wider region.
Partners Highlight Jobs and Economic Growth
Grab Co-Founder, Chairman and CEO Dato’ Anthony Tan said Sarawak’s focus on sustainable energy and long-term development makes it a suitable location for AI infrastructure.
He also highlighted the potential to create high-value jobs for Sarawakians. These opportunities could come from the development and use of advanced AI technologies.
Meanwhile, PETROS Group CEO Dato Janin Girie said the project supports Sarawak’s ambition to transform its economy beyond the oil and gas industry.
He said access to advanced computing technology could help local businesses improve their capabilities and competitiveness.
The initiative could also encourage new industries and provide more opportunities for local talent.
Supporting Malaysia’s AI Nation 2030 Ambition
Sarawak’s energy resources and established power generation capacity provide a foundation for large-scale AI infrastructure.
The proposed facilities could eventually become among the largest developments of their kind in Asia. They aim to serve government agencies, multinational companies and small businesses.
The partners also plan to work closely with the Federal Government and Sarawak Government.
The project aligns with the National AI Action Plan 2026–2030, also known as AI Nation 2030. It also supports Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030.
The wider national investment plan involving SoftBank and Grab also covers Peninsular Malaysia. Together, the proposed projects carry an initial combined investment of US$1.85 billion.
If successfully developed, the initiative could strengthen Malaysia’s position in the regional AI industry while creating new opportunities for Sarawak’s economy and workforce.
Source : PRESS KL | Rewritten By Minutesmy
