SoftBank, Grab and PETROS Invest $1.85 Billion in Malaysian AI Infrastructure

SoftBank Group, Grab and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (PETROS) have formalised their collaboration to develop artificial intelligence infrastructure in Malaysia, with an initial combined seed capital of US$1.85 billion. The investment will be split between projects in Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia.

The companies previously signed a framework agreement in Kuching on 8 October 2026 to explore developing an AI and digital infrastructure platform in Sarawak. The proposed collaboration covers AI computing and services, advanced technologies, robotics, as well as local workforce and community development.

“This is a crucial moment in the country's digital transformation and reflects global confidence in Malaysia's potential to build and use AI.”

According to a joint development agreement announced yesterday, the proposed US$1.85 billion investment will comprise US$1 billion for Sarawak and US$850 million for Peninsular Malaysia. Sarawak will receive US$800 million from SoftBank, US$100 million from Grab and another US$100 million from PETROS.

For the Peninsular Malaysia project, Grab will contribute US$650 million, while SoftBank will put in the remaining US$200 million. Unlike the Sarawak project, which will have SoftBank as its majority shareholder, Grab will serve as the founding shareholder and lead the development of the peninsula-based initiative.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the investment is an important moment in the country's digital transformation and reflects global confidence in Malaysia's potential to build and use AI. He added that it supports the country's goal of becoming an AI nation by 2030.

The funding will be released in stages, subject to the projects achieving key development and customer contract milestones and meeting necessary closing conditions. The companies also intend to bring in additional investors and hyperscaler customers to support the projects.