Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is strengthening the broader ecosystem around Malaysia's data centre industry to help local companies build capabilities and participate in areas including engineering, construction, electrical systems, cooling, telecommunications, cybersecurity, and logistics. MIDA chairman Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz emphasized that the opportunity extends beyond the physical development of data centres to the wider economic spillovers that can be built around them.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tengku Zafrul stated that data centres are crucial for Malaysia's digital economy, but their success is determined by more than just their physical presence. He highlighted that attracting investment was merely the initial step and that the focus now is on creating a sustainable, inclusive, and enduring industry. The true measure of success, he noted, would be the value created around these investments, including stronger local businesses and deeper capabilities.
MIDA's chief executive officer, Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, mentioned that the agency's current focus is on building an ecosystem capable of capturing greater value from the sector's growth. He pointed out the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence and its reliance on computing power and digital infrastructure. However, he emphasized the importance of managing resources responsibly and building local capabilities.
Sikh Shamsul added that MIDA aims not just for an increase in the number of data centres but for a competitive, innovative, and sustainable ecosystem. The upcoming Data Centre Nexus (DCN) 2026 event will include business matching sessions to connect global players with Malaysian businesses, facilitating potential partnerships and supply chain opportunities. This event builds on the success of the previous year's DCN, which linked data centre companies with local supply chain companies.
MIDA has identified critical equipment manufacturers such as Panasonic, Delta Electronics, Dunham-Bush, Powerwell International, and Cipta Industrial as participants in DCN 2026. Service providers in the data centre value chain, including Gading Kencana, Ancom Energy, Northern Solar, and Ditrolic Energy, are also involved. The programme includes discussions on developing Malaysia's data centre supply chain and industrial ecosystem.
This year's DCN programme focuses on four strategic pillars: AI-driven digital infrastructure, sustainable infrastructure, local ecosystem and industrial spillovers, and digital technology accessibility. The programme aims to strengthen domestic supply chains, create skilled jobs, and enhance capabilities across the digital infrastructure value chain. It also explores energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, and responsible data centre operations.
Held under the theme 'Advancing AI-Driven Digital Infrastructure and Sustainable Ecosystems', DCN 2026 brings together key stakeholders to discuss the next phase of Malaysia's evolving data centre ecosystem.