Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) stated on Thursday that it will invest $2.2 billion over the next four years in Malaysia to expand its cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) services in the country. This will be the tech giant’s largest investment in Malaysia and the company will be building AI and cloud infrastructure over there. As a part of this investment, Microsoft will also upskill around 200,000 people.
Microsoft’s CEO Satya Nadella stated that the company plans to collaborate with the Malaysian government to establish a national AI Center of Excellence and boost the country’s cybersecurity capabilities.
MSFT’s Focus on Southeast Asia
Nadella is on a whirlwind tour of Southeast Asia and is boosting Microsoft’s investments in the continent. Microsoft has also announced “significant commitments” and plans to build a new regional data center in Thailand. While the company did not specify the investment amount, it remains committed to training over 100,000 people in AI skills and supporting local developers.
Earlier this week, MSFT stated that it intends to invest $1.7 billion over the next four years in expanding cloud services and artificial intelligence in Indonesia.
Furthermore, Microsoft plans to train 2.5 million individuals across Southeast Asia in AI skills by 2025. Expanding its commitment to global AI development, the company is investing $2.9 billion in Japan and $1.5 billion in UAE’s G42.
Is Microsoft a Buy, Hold, or Sell?
Analysts remain bullish about MSFT stock, with a Strong Buy consensus rating based on 33 Buys and one Hold and Sell each. Over the past year, MSFT has increased by more than 25%, and the average MSFT price target of $487.87 implies an upside potential of 23.5% from current levels.
