TNB To Meet Data Centre Needs, Adopts AI And Talent Development

By M. Saraswathi

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 15 (Bernama) -- Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) is strengthening its grid by adopting AI-enabled solutions with a focus on talent development to meet unprecedented demand, especially with the rush of data centres in the country.

“With over 70 data centre applications received, representing more than 11,000 megawatts of demand, and another 6,000 megawatts expected by 2030, the need for a smarter, more resilient grid has never been clearer,” TNB chief distribution network officer Mahathir Nor Ismail said.

Hence, electricity is not just a utility; it is the foundation of Malaysia’s digital future, he said.

Mahathir said TNB is adopting AI tools such as the Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS), which enables predictive analytics, real-time network visibility, and enhanced control over bi-directional energy flows, all of which are essential in managing the increasing complexity of Malaysia’s energy ecosystem.

Speaking at the I-Nation Global Summit 2025, he said in a post on the utility company’s LinkedIn page: “For TNB, success means helping to power Malaysia’s economic progress while creating lasting benefits for its people.”

As energy and AI become increasingly interconnected, TNB is harnessing this synergy to drive smarter, more resilient operations across the nation’s power network, he said.

“With strong governance guiding the use of AI, we’re ensuring the technology boosts productivity, supports sustainable growth, and strengthens Malaysia’s economic competitiveness — while improving the quality of life for Malaysians.”

Mahathir stressed that the real transformation exercise lies not just in technology but in people. 

TNB’s focus is on developing talent who can translate operational challenges into actionable, AI-driven insights. 

The goal is not to compete with global AI leaders, but to apply AI meaningfully to improve business intelligence, decision-making, and network performance, he said. 

“Ethics remain a fundamental pillar in TNB’s AI journey. The organisation adopts a human-centric approach to governance, ensuring that while AI provides valuable predictions and insights, final decisions are grounded in human judgment.”

The I-Nation Global Summit 2025 is hosted by the Malaysian Research Accelerator for Technology & Innovation (MRANTI) under the Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry, where ideas turn into impact.

In its fourth year, I-Nation has established itself as Malaysia’s premier platform to accelerate innovation, commercialisation, and global collaboration. 

Each year, the summit brings together some of the brightest minds and most influential voices to share insights, discuss challenges, and ignite action.

-- BERNAMA