Japan’s SoftBank Group is reportedly planning to invest $50 billion in Malaysia, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), emerging technologies and data centres, according to GuruFocus. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son had identified potential investment locations in Kuching, Sarawak, and peninsular Malaysia. Earlier in October 2026, SoftBank signed a framework agreement with Grab and Petroleum Sarawak to explore AI computing services and digital infrastructure projects in Sarawak. The proposed investment has not yet been formally confirmed, with project timelines, ownership structures and expected returns still to be detailed.
Malaysia is seeking to establish itself as a regional AI and data centre hub by 2030. The country recorded approximately RM385.7 billion ($94 billion) in data centre-related investments between 2021 and the first half of 2026. Google, Amazon Web Services and Microsoft have also announced multibillion-dollar investments in Malaysia, reflecting growing interest in the country’s digital infrastructure sector.