Sarawak, a state in Malaysia, is exploring the possibility of supplying power to four Tier 4 artificial intelligence (AI) data centers in the region. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg revealed that the proposed data centers will be set up by Global Resources Management (GRM) Sdn Bhd and GRM Digital Solutions Sdn Bhd, with one in Sarawak, one in Singapore, and two in Peninsular Malaysia.
Premier Abang Johari emphasized the importance of power in operating data centers, stating, “Yes, you need Tier 4 data centers, but you need power (to operate them). If you don’t have power, you also cannot have data centers. For that, we want to enhance our energy production.” To meet this demand, Sarawak has the potential to produce more than 20,000MW of hydropower energy without submerging large portions of landmass. The implementation of cascading dams, which have been successful in Europe and countries like Australia and Sweden, can achieve this goal.
By utilizing the abundant rivers in Sarawak, Premier Abang Johari explains that the cascading dams not only produce energy but also contribute to environmental benefits, such as increased oxygen production and the control of crocodile breeding. Sarawak’s rivers, which are no longer heavily relied upon for transportation due to improved road access, provide a prime opportunity to establish these innovative dams.
In addition to the data centers, GRM Sdn Bhd and GRM Digital Solutions Sdn Bhd have plans for other projects, including the installation of subsea fiber optic cables that will connect Malaysia to two major global internet hubs in Singapore and Hong Kong by the end of 2024. The strategic partners for this endeavor include Tencent Cloud, Beidou Satellite, China Mobile, Fiberhome, HIKVISION, and ChinaSoft.
The potential collaboration between Sarawak and these tech companies highlights the region’s commitment to digital transformation and its desire to become a key player in the AI industry. With its abundant hydropower resources and strategic geographical location, Sarawak has the opportunity to boost economic growth and technological advancement.
This ambitious venture is supported by various government officials and industry leaders. The event where these plans were revealed was attended by Sarawak’s Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government, the chairman of Sarawak Information Systems Sdn Bhd, the chairman of Centre for Technology Excellence Sarawak, the chairman of Subur Tiasa Holdings Bhd, and the executive director of PP Telecommunication Sdn Bhd.
Sarawak’s pursuit of supplying power to Tier 4 AI data centers demonstrates its determination to push forward in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. By harnessing its natural resources and collaborating with innovative companies, Sarawak has the potential to establish itself as a major player in the AI industry, driving economic growth and technological advancements in the region.
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