SoftBank, Grab to develop AI infrastructure in Malaysia's Sarawak

SoftBank Group and Grab Holdings have entered into a framework agreement with Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS) to explore the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital infrastructure in the Malaysian state of Sarawak. The collaboration, signed on Thursday, aims to combine the strengths of the three entities to support Sarawak's ambition of becoming a hub for AI and high-value technology industries.

Under the agreement, the parties will work together to create a roadmap for the phased development of the platform, exploring opportunities across the AI value chain, including AI compute and services, advanced technologies, and robotics. SoftBank will contribute its global expertise in AI infrastructure, advanced computing, and semiconductors. Grab will bring its established digital ecosystem in Southeast Asia, applied AI capabilities, and regional networks. PETROS will leverage its experience with Sarawak's energy resources and its role as the Master Developer of the Kuching Low-Carbon Hub to develop energy supply solutions and enabling infrastructure.

The initiative is intended to contribute to Malaysia's national digital economy and AI agenda, attracting strategic investment, developing local talent, and catalyzing technology-driven economic activities. It also aligns with Sarawak's Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 to achieve high-income status.