Medini: The future of artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and next-generation digital technologies depends heavily on robust infrastructure backed by collaborative partnerships between industry and government, said Microsoft’s regional legal director for the Asia-Pacific, Jeth Lee. He stated that AI advancements are deeply rooted in physical infrastructure such as data centres, which remain essential to supporting growing workloads in the cloud.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lee emphasized that AI does not operate in a vacuum, as these workloads run in the cloud and are supported by physical data centres. He shared these insights while speaking as a panellist at the Nikkei Forum Medini 2025 during the session on Empowering Next-Generation Computing Power – Boost Asia’s Innovation with AI and Data Centres.

Lee highlighted the importance of cross-border data flows and regional partnerships, particularly with governments like Malaysia’s, which he described as having a forward-looking digital policy. He noted that public-private partnerships are essential and that countries with visionary digital initiatives play a crucial role in building secure, sustainable, and globally connected infrastructure.

He further added that in the next five to ten years, sustainability, security, and governance will become defining pillars of digital development. Beyond economic drivers, he sees sustainability and cross-border governance as key to unlocking the true value of AI and other technologies.

Recently, Microsoft announced the general availability of its Malaysia West Cloud Region, launched as part of its US$2.2 billion investment in the country. The new cloud region, located in Greater Kuala Lumpur, aims to deliver world-class AI datacentre infrastructure and enable organizations to accelerate innovation securely, supporting a future that is inclusive, sustainable, and AI-ready.