Microsoft to invest $1.7b in Indonesia’s cloud, AI infrastructure

Microsoft is set to invest $1.7 billion in Indonesia’s cloud and AI infrastructure over the next four years, the Associated Press (AP) reported on Tuesday. The investment marks its largest commitment in the country to date.

CEO Satya Nadella announced the initiative, emphasising the transformative power of AI, particularly in Southeast Asia.

Microsoft aims to bolster Indonesia’s digital capabilities, including AI training for 840,000 individuals and support for its burgeoning tech community.

This investment aligns with Indonesia’s vision for digital development, highlighted by President Joko Widodo’s proposal for an AI research centre and a Microsoft data centre in the country.

The move underscores the region’s growing significance in tech innovation, with projections suggesting AI could contribute nearly $1 trillion to Southeast Asia’s GDP by 2030.

Nadella’s visit signals Microsoft’s strategic focus on Southeast Asia’s expanding market and potential for further AI advancements.