Microsoft plans a regional data center in Thailand with AI development

Microsoft today announced its plans to open its first regional data center in Thailand. The company also shared a roadmap to expand cloud and AI infrastructure in the country

Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella made this announcement on Wednesday at Microsoft Build: AI Day in Bangkok. Approximately 2,000 developers and business and technology giants joined the event with a special appearance from Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin.

Nadella also committed to a new regional data center in Thailand. This data center will expand Microsoft’s cloud services, enterprise-grade reliability, performance, and compliance with data residency and privacy standards.

The company mentioned that the new change follows strong demand for cloud computing services in the country from enterprises, local businesses, and public organizations. This will also enable the company to provide AI integration and business support.

Research by Kearney predicts that AI will account for $1 trillion in Southeast Asia’s GDP by 2030 and Thailand will account for $117 billion.

Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella announcing first regional data center in Thailand (Image Credit: Microsoft)

Skill improvements:

Microsoft will bring a new AI skilling program for 2.5 million in ASEAN countries by 2025. This training will cover Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines and Vietnam. This skill improvement program will reach more than 100,000 people in Thailand.

The software giant working with Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, Ministry of Tourism and Sports, Ministry of Labor, and the Technology Vocational Education Training Institute. These partnerships will focus on improving 500 trainers from technology vocational education training institutes in AI for Thailand’s tourism sector.

In addition to Thailand, Microsoft has announced its largest ever $1.7 billion investment in Indonesia in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cloud computing systems.