Malaysia Tackles AI and Data Centre Talent Shortage with Return of BICSI Southeast Asia Conference & Exhibition

Malaysia’s ambition to establish itself as a leading digital infrastructure hub in Southeast Asia received a further boost with the return of the BICSI Southeast Asia Conference & Exhibition Malaysia 2026. The two-day event brought together government representatives, ICT infrastructure professionals, engineers, consultants, technology providers, data centre operators, policymakers and business leaders from across the region to address the growing demand for skilled talent as Malaysia accelerates its development in artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing and data centre infrastructure.

Held at Sunway Resort Hotel and officiated by Deputy Minister of Human Resources, Datuk Khairul Firdaus bin Akbar Khan, the conference was held under the theme “Advancing ICT Infrastructure for the AI-Connected Future.” The event provided a platform for industry stakeholders to exchange insights and explore the infrastructure, skills and technologies needed to support Southeast Asia’s increasingly connected and AI-driven digital economy.

The BICSI Southeast Asia Conference is presented through the BICSI Southeast Asia Affiliate, operated by Tecnoviq Learning Academy Sdn Bhd (TECLA) under an exclusive Affiliate licence from BICSI, with event delivery support from Global Creative & Media Agency (GCMA). This marks the second time the regional conference has been hosted in Malaysia, reflecting the country’s growing significance within the digital infrastructure and technology ecosystem.

The conference received support from the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA), alongside strategic partners including the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Invest Selangor Berhad, Selangor Information Technology & Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) and Cyberview. Industry organisations such as the SME Association of Malaysia, the National Tech Association of Malaysia (PIKOM) and the Malaysia Digital Chamber of Commerce (MDCC) also supported the initiative.

The timing of the conference comes as Malaysia continues to attract substantial investments in AI, cloud computing and hyperscale data centres. Approved investments exceeded RM92.8 billion in the first quarter of 2026, including RM38.9 billion in the ICT sector, according to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). Meanwhile, Malaysia’s national data centre capacity is projected to surpass 4,000MW beyond 2026, further increasing demand for professionals with expertise in data centre engineering, cloud infrastructure, network architecture, cybersecurity and sustainable ICT systems.

However, the rapid expansion of digital infrastructure also highlights the importance of developing a future-ready workforce. TalentCorp’s Impact Study on AI, Digital and Green Economy estimates that approximately 697,000 Malaysian workers could face significant job-transition risks over the next three to five years as automation continues to reshape the workplace. The findings reinforce the need for continuous upskilling and reskilling programmes to ensure Malaysian workers can adapt to emerging technologies and evolving industry requirements.

In his officiating address, Datuk Khairul Firdaus emphasised that the development of AI and digital infrastructure must be supported by simultaneous investment in technology and human capital. He highlighted that AI applications depend on secure data centres, high-speed fibre networks, structured cabling systems, cloud infrastructure and resilient communication networks, making skilled ICT professionals essential to the success of Malaysia’s digital transformation.

He further stressed that while Malaysia’s success in attracting hyperscale data centre and digital infrastructure investments represents a positive development, the country’s long-term competitiveness will depend on its ability to develop local talent capable of designing, building, operating and maintaining these critical systems.

Mary Elizabeth Cheng, Director of the BICSI Southeast Asia Affiliate, said Malaysia’s rapid growth in AI, hyperscale data centres, cloud computing and digital connectivity made the country a fitting host for the conference. She highlighted the growing importance of internationally recognised standards, quality training and professional certification in ensuring that the region’s expanding digital infrastructure is supported by competent and highly skilled professionals.

BICSI CEO John H. Daniels also noted that Malaysia’s progress as a digital infrastructure hub should be measured not only by the number of facilities being developed, but also by the capabilities of the workforce responsible for operating them. He emphasised that AI, cloud computing and data centre operations rely on ICT infrastructure that is designed, installed, tested and maintained according to high professional standards.

The two-day conference featured keynote presentations, technical sessions, expert forums and networking opportunities covering a wide range of topics relevant to the future of digital infrastructure. Discussions included AI-ready infrastructure, advanced fibre connectivity, structured cabling, liquid cooling technologies, edge computing, smart buildings, cybersecurity and sustainable data centre design.

Alongside the conference programme, an exhibition showcased solutions from leading global and regional technology companies working to shape the future of digital infrastructure. The exhibition provided participants with opportunities to explore emerging technologies and gain insights into how advanced infrastructure solutions can support the growing requirements of AI and cloud-based applications.

As Malaysia continues to position itself as a regional hub for digital infrastructure, the BICSI Southeast Asia Conference & Exhibition Malaysia 2026 highlights a crucial reality: investment in technology must go hand in hand with investment in people. Developing a skilled workforce, strengthening professional standards and encouraging continuous learning will be essential to ensuring Malaysia can fully capture the economic opportunities created by AI, cloud computing and data centre growth.

With strong investment momentum and increasing demand for advanced digital infrastructure, Malaysia is well positioned to play a significant role in Southeast Asia’s digital future. However, building a sustainable and competitive digital economy will require continued collaboration between government, industry, education providers and professional organisations to ensure that the country has the talent and expertise needed to support the next generation of connected technologies.

For more information, visit bicsi-sea.org.