PETROS, SoftBank, Grab explored the development of AI infrastructure in Sarawak

KUCHING, 8 Oct: Sarawak has the potential to emerge as a destination for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure and high-value technology industries through cooperation with Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS), SoftBank Group and Grab Holdings Limited.

The three companies today signed a Framework Agreement to explore the development of AI and digital infrastructure platforms in Sarawak, including the preparation of roadmap for phased development.

According to a joint media statement by the three companies, the partnership also explores opportunities along the AI value chain, including AI computing and services, advanced technology, robotics, local and community workforce development.

"This cooperation reflects the shared view that Sarawak has the potential to be a destination for AI infrastructure and high-value technology industries, thus supporting Malaysia's aspiration to become a regional hub for AI and digital infrastructure", according to the statement.

The agreement combines SoftBank's strength in global AI technology and ecosystem, Grab's in Southeast Asia digital ecosystem and PETROS' in energy and infrastructure.

SoftBank will contribute expertise in AI infrastructure, advanced computing, semiconductor and 'physical AI', while Grab brings the capabilities of usable AI as well as a network of customers and partners to Southeast Asia.

PETROS will also contribute its experience of harnessing Sarawak's energy resources for economic development through the Sarawak Gas Roadmap and its role as a Builder of the Kuching Low Carbon Motherhouse (KLCH).

It includes developing energy supply solutions and supporting infrastructure, encouraging local engagement as well as strengthening local participation and value creation along the Sarawak supply chain.

According to the statement, the cooperation also supports Sarawak's aspiration of achieving high-income status by 2030 through the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, as well as contributing to the country's digital economy and AI agenda.

It is expected to help attract strategic investment into Malaysia, develop the talents and capabilities of local people as well as stimulate technology-based economic activity in Sarawak, Malaysia and wider region.

The agreement was signed by CEO and Chairman of SoftBank Group Corp., Masayoshi Son; Group Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of Grab, Anthony Tan; as well as PETROS Group Chief Executive Dato Janin Girie.

The Prime Minister of Sarawak, Senior Datuk Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg; Deputy Minister of Utility and Telecommunications Sarawak (Sarawak Energy and PETROS), Datuk Ibrahim Baki; Chairman of PETROS, Tan Sri Datuk Amar Hamid Bugo and Member of the Board of Directors of PETROS, Datuk Sharbini Suhaili were also present.

However, the framework agreement is not yet a commitment to implement the project, with the three parties still having to go through research processes, internal approvals, government approvals and regulatory controls as well as obtaining the necessary financing, land, energy supplies and connectivity.

The statement also stressed that the agreement does not oblige the three companies to sign a final agreement or implement an exploratory project.