SoftBank Group founder and CEO Masayoshi Son is planning a $50 billion investment in Malaysia's artificial intelligence (AI), emerging technology and data centre sectors, according to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
The proposed investment would cover projects in Kuching, Sarawak, and parts of Peninsular Malaysia, expanding SoftBank's involvement in AI infrastructure across Southeast Asia.
Anwar disclosed the plans during a speech in Melaka on October 24, following a video conference with Son earlier in the week. He said the Japanese technology investor had identified locations for the proposed projects, describing the investment as potentially one of the largest of its kind in the region.
The planned expenditure would focus on AI infrastructure, new technologies and data centres, areas that have attracted increasing investment as technology companies expand computing capacity to support AI development and deployment.
SoftBank has not independently announced a final $50 billion investment commitment or disclosed a detailed project timeline. A company spokesperson subsequently said SoftBank was working with the Malaysian government and other parties to explore opportunities in AI and digital infrastructure.
Earlier in October, SoftBank signed a framework agreement with Grab Holdings and Petroleum Sarawak Berhad to explore the development of an AI and digital infrastructure platform in Sarawak.
The agreement covers potential cooperation in AI computing, robotics and workforce development, although it does not specify an investment amount or constitute a final commitment to proceed with the projects.
Malaysia has increasingly attracted technology investments from international companies seeking to expand cloud computing and AI infrastructure in Southeast Asia.
According to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority, the country recorded RM385.7 billion in data centre-related investments between 2021 and the first half of 2026.
Companies including Microsoft, Amazon and Google's parent company Alphabet have also announced investments in Malaysia's digital infrastructure sector.
The Malaysian government has been encouraging data centre operators to strengthen local supply chains, support domestic technology development and create higher-skilled employment opportunities.
Anwar said the proposed SoftBank investment could generate new job opportunities, particularly for younger Malaysians entering the workforce.
He also emphasised the importance of strengthening capabilities in AI, digitalisation and semiconductors, alongside improving technical education and workforce training.
Malaysia has set a target of becoming an AI-focused nation by 2030, with government initiatives aimed at encouraging domestic innovation and wider technology adoption.
For SoftBank, the proposed investment would form part of its broader international focus on AI infrastructure. The Japanese group is involved in major computing and data centre initiatives in the United States, France and Japan.
However, the Malaysian projects remain at the planning and exploratory stage, with further details on financing, construction schedules and implementation yet to be announced.
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