INTEL has reaffirmed its commitment to Malaysia with a reinvestment plan valued at nearly RM50 billion, bolstering its local workforce to more than 12,300 employees. The move underscores Malaysia’s growing stature as a global semiconductor hub.
In a recent high-level meeting, the technology giant discussed the expansion of its operations in the country, further strengthening its strategic investment base outside the United States.
Following the meeting, Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, in a Facebook post today, said: “Intel’s presence in Malaysia since 1972 mirrors the nation’s rise as a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain.”
The Malaysian government, through the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), has pledged full support for Intel’s continued growth.
“This meeting is a proof of Intel’s continued faith in Malaysia as a major investment hub outside the US,” he said.
The expansion aligns with national frameworks such as the National Investment Master Plan (NIMP 2030) and the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS), which aim to enhance Malaysia’s industrial ecosystem in a sustainable and competitive manner.
“Thank you, Intel, for your continued trust. We are always here to ensure your success in Malaysia,” the government affirmed, Tengku Zafrul added.
Google’s RM9.4 Billion investment to power Malaysia’s digital ambitions
Earlier, Google’s announcement of a RM9.4 billion investment to establish its first data centre and Google Cloud Region in Malaysia marks a significant milestone in the country’s digital transformation, with the project expected to create 26,500 jobs and contribute RM15.04 billion in long-term economic value.
Tengku Zafrul described the development as “a multi-faceted strategic boost” for Malaysia’s digital future.
“We discussed how Google can continue to drive Malaysia’s AI and cloud computing economy, strengthen cybersecurity, and invest in digital skills,” he said in a statement following a meeting with Google executives in Washington, United States.
Tengku Zafrul reiterated the government’s full commitment to supporting high-impact investments and ensuring an environment that enables innovation and long-term growth.
Malaysia’s appeal as a digital investment destination has been on the rise. In May, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) chief executive officer Anuar Fariz Fadzil noted that the country is fast emerging as Southeast Asia’s top choice for data centre developments.
He cited “stable governance, clear digital strategies, and strong institutional coordination” as key drivers of confidence among global tech giants.
Malaysia’s low disaster risk, robust power infrastructure, and sustainability commitments further enhance its attractiveness to investors.
The project forms part of a broader national effort to position Malaysia as a regional leader in digital infrastructure, aligning with long-term strategic frameworks including the Malaysia Digital initiative and the National Artificial Intelligence Roadmap. - June 22, 2025
