In July 2025, the Silver Valley Technology Park in Perak, Malaysia welcomed a significant investment - NexQuantum 1 Limited and Suzhou Huahan Technology in China officially signed a strategic cooperation agreement to jointly build an artificial intelligence digital park with an investment of up to RM8 billion. The ceremony was presided over by the three kings of Perak, Raja Yis Gan Dazu Kanain, and witnessed by the Minister of State, Datuk Serishalani. Representatives from the political, business, and academic circles, including Perak Speaker Mohamad Zahi and Chairman of Huahan Technology, Lou Chaozong, also attended.

The Rise of Eight Data Centers

According to the agreement, both parties will integrate local project development capabilities with international technical experience to create a high-value digital ecosystem covering AI Ready facilities, cloud services, intelligent operations and maintenance, sustainable development, talent cultivation, and regional digital connectivity. NexQuantum CEO Wang Tingwen introduced that the park is positioned as a long-term digital infrastructure platform, with plans to build eight data center facilities covering a total area of 140 acres. The first phase of NQ1 will start construction within this year, with an investment of RM1 billion to build a large data center with a capacity of 32 megawatts and compliance with Tier III standards. It is expected to be completed in 14 months.

Pre lease rate nearly 100%

Wang Tingwen pointed out that the demand for AI Ready data center infrastructure is still strong, especially in the ASEAN regional market. He revealed that the pre occupancy rate of NQ1 is currently close to 100%, and negotiations for the NQ2 phase have also begun. In the future, the development of each phase will gradually advance based on market demand and tenant implementation.

The multiplier effect is evident

Datuk Rizalafi, CEO of the Perak Development Agency, emphasized that digital infrastructure is no longer just an option, but an important foundation for ensuring long-term economic competitiveness. He stated that the digital park is not a short-term plan, but a long-term technology and investment platform with regional development potential. It will bring a multiplier effect to the overall economy of Perak, highly aligning with the digital economy direction of the 11th Agenda of the 2030 Perak Prosperity Blueprint. At the same time, it will drive the demand for high-tech talents, benefit local contractors, consultants, and engineers, and create spillover effects for small and medium-sized enterprises and digital entrepreneurs. Keywords: Southeast Asian news, digital park

The landing of this AI digital park marks Perak's acceleration in seizing the ASEAN digital economy track, injecting strong momentum into regional digital transformation.Editor/Cheng Liting