More To Come For Johor’s Data Centre Industry – Gobind

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 29 (Bernama) -- More exciting developments are anticipated in Johor in the near future, particularly in the data centre sector, said Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo.

He said Johor has become a global focal point, especially with the new Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone.

"There are more than 50 data centres in Johor, either in application, construction or are already operational. I believe there will be more to come.

"I was there over the weekend with the menteri besar, and one of the key discussions was Johor’s aim to establish an ecosystem that fully supports the data centre industry," he said at a press conference after delivering his key note speech at the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Cloud Day Malaysia.

Gobind said there is also the challenge of retaining local talent.

"For example, investments in industries like semiconductors demand a workforce with advanced engineering skills, which are currently limited. 

"Therefore, we must not only develop talent but also incentivise them to build careers in Malaysia. Such efforts will ensure that as investments flow into Malaysia, they contribute to building a skilled workforce with long-term opportunities," he added.

The AWS Cloud Day Malaysia, a one-day event held today at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, is the country’s largest technology gathering, empowering businesses, developers and leaders to harness the full potential of cloud technology and the latest advancements in artificial intelligence.

Meanwhile, AWS Malaysia country manager Pete Murray said in his address: “Today I’m proud to announce the launch of AWS Tech Alliance Malaysia. Through it, we will work with government agencies, academic and vocational institutions, and employers to jointly nurture the next generation of builders and cloud talent together.

“Tech Alliance Malaysia will provide learners with an end-to-end journey, from skilling up with AWS to showcasing their capabilities to fast-growing businesses, which are looking for these talent with in-demand skills,” he said.

Murray said Tech Alliance Malaysia currently works with 25 institutions in Malaysia and its goal is to connect over 25,000 skilled learners with 40 businesses.

“You’ll hear more about Tech Alliance Malaysia and how AWS is solving the skills and talent gap in Malaysia,” he added.

-- BERNAMA