GDS International and Its Global Suppliers Unveil RM1 Billion Investments to Build Supply Chain Ecosystem in Malaysia

29 October 2024
JOHOR BAHRU: The Data Centre Supply Chain Ecosystem Summit, held by GDS International (GDSI) in Johor Bahru on October 27, convened more than 400 attendees, including government leaders, industry experts, key partners, and GDSI's global suppliers from across China, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, the United States, and Europe.
The summit showcased Malaysia's rise as both a data center and supply chain hub.
The summit unveiled RM1 billion in investments from GDS International's suppliers to establish integrated factories and service centers in Malaysia, projected to generate annual output surpassing RM5 billion and create over 5,000 jobs. GDS International aims to position Malaysia as a data center hub, global supply chain, and advanced manufacturing hub.
Malaysian government dignitaries and GDS International leaders witnessed the signing of Memorandum of Understanding with GDSI suppliers and local universities on commitments to investments and talent programs at the GDS International Supply Chain Ecosystem Summit 2024 in Johor Bahru.
The summit spotlighted GDSI's extensive supplier network, which plays a critical role in developing Malaysia's digital and economic ecosystem.
Five suppliers, including EPG, Longmotive, Cooltech, Morimatsu Dialog, and Wasion Energy, pledged a combined RM360 million to build new factories in Malaysia, expected to create over 700 local jobs.
William Huang, Chairman of GDS International, said, "With GDS International's large-scale data center developments and in response to the significant demand from Malaysia's market and future international markets, we aim to build a supply chain ecosystem in Malaysia that serves global needs. This effort has received strong support from the government and aligns with Malaysia's national strategy and interests, contributing significantly to job creation and boosting exports."
The event also featured strategic partnerships signed with Multimedia University (MMU) and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), aiming to align talent development with industry needs. These partnerships will create internships, joint research projects, and specialised courses to prepare Malaysia's workforce for future opportunities.Â
During the summit, SIRIM awarded the first Data Centre Calibration Certificate to GDS International. The partnership marked a significant step in setting industry standards for performance and sustainability.
Jamie Khoo, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of GDS International, stated, “Today's achievements are just the beginning. Our commitment to integrating international supply chains with Malaysia's local partners will foster a collaborative ecosystem that enhances skills, operational efficiency, and innovation. Through our ongoing and future efforts to build a robust supply chain ecosystem, we aim to position Malaysia as a hub for advanced manufacturing, boost exports, and drive sustainable economic growth, while setting a global standard for excellence."
These announcements and recognitions were witnessed by Chief Minister of Johor, Dato' Onn Hafiz  Ghazi, along with Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, Deputy Minister of MITI Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Communications Teo Nie Ching, Chairman of Johor State Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs And Human Resources Committee Lee Ting Han, and CEO of MIDA Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid.
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