Vietnam, Malaysia Invest in Data Centers Amid Economic Growth Concerns

The rapid expansion of data centers in Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Vietnam, is creating both economic opportunities and environmental challenges. In Malaysia's Johor province, data centers are projected to consume significant resources, with a potential demand exceeding 5 gigawatts by 2035, raising concerns for local businesses reliant on water and electricity. Winson Lau, a fish breeder, illustrates these challenges, struggling to compete with the energy needs of these facilities. Meanwhile, Vietnam's data center market is expected to grow significantly, attracting foreign investment, including from major players like Google and Alibaba. While these developments promise job creation and economic boosts, experts warn of the sustainability issues tied to high resource consumption and reliance on fossil fuels. As the competition for tech infrastructure intensifies, questions about long-term benefits and environmental impact remain pertinent.