Northern region combines traditional, modern strengths

The northern region is set to play a pivotal role in supporting Malaysia’s ambition to become a leading digital hub in Asean.

PETALING JAYA: The northern region is set to play a pivotal role in supporting Malaysia’s ambition to become a leading digital hub in Asean, with Penang and Kedah emerging as key growth centres for the country’s digital infrastructure.

Open DC Sdn Bhd founder and managing director, Mr Wong Weng Yew, said the region’s transformation is underpinned by a combination of traditional industrial strengths and modern digital capabilities. “For Open DC, our vision is to continue building bridges not just between data centres, but also between people and opportunities.” He said the development of D8-1, a data centre in Kedah, is scheduled for completion in early 2026. Designed as a green facility, D8-1 reflects the company’s commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility while meeting the rising demands of AI and high-performance workloads.

Wong explained that AI would play a key role in optimising energy use and reducing wastage. “The northern region is poised to become a hub that connects Asean’s supply chains and digital ecosystems,” he said, highlighting the government’s RM2.7 billion Delapan project in Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah.

He said this was included in the 2026 “Fourth Madani Budget: People’s Budget”, which described it as a critical move to drive balanced growth beyond the Klang Valley, opening new development opportunities for industry players, such as Open DC. “The company’s internship programmes provide fresh graduates with early career exposure to operations, management and innovation within data centres, helping to cultivate the next generation of digital professionals.”

He also said Open DC practises a “fail-fast” approach that allows young talent to learn from mistakes under the guidance of experienced engineers, building resilience and practical skills.“Roles such as data engineers, network specialists, sustainability experts and facility operators are forming the backbone of the region’s digital growth. These are roles that did not exist at scale a few years ago, and now they are driving the next generation of talent in Penang and Kedah.”

Wong stressed that responsible growth is essential to setting a benchmark for northern Malaysia’s digital industry, particularly as AI-driven data centres become more resource-intensive. He said Open DC is exploring strategic partnerships with regional and international players to strengthen connectivity within Malaysia and across Southeast Asia.

~By The Sun, 5 November 2025~