The Data Center Supply Chain Ecosystem Summit held by GDS International (GDSI) in Johor Bahru, Malaysia on Oct 27, 2024, convened more than 400 attendees, including government leaders, industry experts, key partners and GDSI’s global suppliers from across China, Malaysia, Singapore, Japan, the US, and Europe, to showcase Malaysia’s rise as both a data center and supply chain hub.
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The summit unveiled RM1 billion in investments from GDS International’s suppliers to establish integrated factories and service centers in Malaysia, projected to generate annual output surpassing RM5 billion and create over 5,000 jobs. GDS International aims to position Malaysia not only as a data center hub but also as a global supply chain and advanced manufacturing hub.
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Malaysian government dignitaries and GDS International leaders witnessing the MoU signings with GDSI suppliers and local universities on commitments to investments and talent programs at the GDS International Supply Chain Ecosystem Summit 2024 in Johor Bahru, Malaysia.
The summit spotlighted GDSI’s extensive supplier network, which plays a critical role in developing Malaysia’s digital and economic ecosystem. Five suppliers, including EPG, Longmotive, Cooltech, Morimatsu Dialog, and Wasion Energy, pledged a combined RM360 million to build new factories in Malaysia, expected to create over 700 local jobs.
William Huang, Chairman of GDS International, emphasized: “With GDS International’s large-scale data center developments and in response to the significant demand from Malaysia’s market and future international markets, we aim to build a supply chain ecosystem in Malaysia that serves global needs. This effort has received strong support from the government and aligns with Malaysia’s national strategy and interests, contributing significantly to job creation and boosting exports.”
The event also featured strategic partnerships signed with Multimedia University (MMU) and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), aiming to align talent development with industry needs. These partnerships will create internships, joint research projects, and specialized courses to prepare Malaysia’s workforce for future opportunities.
Jamie Khoo, CEO of GDS International, said: “Today’s achievements are just the beginning. Our commitment to integrating international supply chains with Malaysia’s local partners will foster a collaborative ecosystem that enhances skills, operational efficiency, and innovation. Through our ongoing and future efforts to build a robust supply chain ecosystem, we aim to position Malaysia as a hub for advanced manufacturing, boost exports, drive sustainable economic growth, while setting a global standard for excellence.”
These announcements and recognitions were witnessed by Chief Minister of Johor, YAB Dato’ Onn Hafiz Bin Ghazi, along with Minister of Digital YB Gobind Singh Deo, Deputy Minister of MITI YB Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Communications YB Teo Nie Ching, Chairman of Johor State Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs And Human Resources Committee YB Lee Ting Han, and CEO of MIDA YB Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid.
Minister of Digital YB Gobind Singh Deo urged attendees to recognize the importance of a robust supply chain: “The data center industry is the backbone of the modern economy. Johor is becoming one of the largest data center hubs in the country, and GDS International’s commitment shows their confidence in our thriving digital economy.”
The summit featured GDS International’s key strategic partners—MIDA, MDEC, IRDA, Invest Johor, SIRIM, and PLANMalaysia—showcasing a collaborative effort to cultivate an ecosystem of technological advancement and innovation.
About GDS Holdings
GDS is a leading developer and operator of high-performance data centers in Asia Pacific. Our facilities are strategically located in primary economic hubs where demand for high-performance data center services is concentrated.
