Google has announced a significant investment of $1 billion to expand its data center and cloud infrastructure in Thailand, specifically in Bangkok and Chonburi, to meet the rising demand for cloud services in Southeast Asia.

This announcement was made at Government House, highlighting a collaborative effort between Google and the Royal Thai Government, represented by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.

In addition to infrastructure, Google is committed to enhancing digital skills and AI accessibility in Thailand, ensuring that all citizens can participate in the digital economy.

The Thai economy, which has traditionally relied on sectors like manufacturing and tourism, is striving to modernize and recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thailand's Office of the National Digital Economy and Society Commission anticipates that the digital economy could contribute up to 30% of the country's GDP by 2027.

Moreover, AI implementations in both public and private sectors in Thailand could unlock an estimated THB2.3 trillion by 2030, signaling a strong potential for economic growth.

The new cloud region established by Google is expected to provide local organizations with enterprise-grade capabilities, facilitating their digital transformation and enhancing their competitive edge.

Meanwhile, Malaysia's economy has also seen a boost from digital investments, with recent performance exceeding growth expectations and the ringgit becoming one of Asia's strongest currencies.

The Malaysian government aims to position the country as a hub for generative AI, emphasizing the need for tech investments to build secure digital infrastructure.

In line with these goals, Microsoft has committed $2.2 billion to expand its presence in Malaysia, focusing on AI and cloud computing, and plans to collaborate with the government on a national AI Center of Excellence.

As countries navigate these advancements, there is a delicate balance between ensuring digital sovereignty and attracting foreign investment, with governments striving to maintain control over citizens' data.

In Singapore, the government is also adapting to rapid technological changes, with plans to update laws and build safety nets to support citizens in this evolving landscape.