SoftBank Group, Grab Holdings and Petroleum Sarawak Bhd (Petros) signed a three-party framework agreement on 8 October 2026 to explore an AI and digital infrastructure platform in Sarawak, The Edge Malaysia reported.
Key points
- The parties will prepare a roadmap for developing the proposed platform in phases.
- SoftBank brings computing expertise, Grab its regional platforms and networks, and Petros energy infrastructure.
- The statement gave no investment value or implementation timeline, The Edge Malaysia reported.
Sarawak platform starts with a roadmap
The agreement calls for the companies to prepare a roadmap covering phased development of the proposed platform, according to a Petros statement reported by The Edge Malaysia. Their proposed collaboration extends beyond computing facilities to AI services capacity, advanced technology, robotics, and programmes for the local workforce and community.
The framework agreement is an initial step, with the three parties set to assess the opportunities and potential scope of the platform further, DayakDaily reported. That places the roadmap, rather than a stated construction programme, at the centre of the work described so far.
The Edge Malaysia reported that the statement gave neither an investment value nor an implementation timeline. The agreement therefore sets out areas for joint assessment without attaching a stated spending figure or delivery date to the proposed platform.
Masayoshi Son signed for SoftBank, Anthony Tan for Grab and Janin Girie for Petros. Sarawak Premier Abang Johari Tun Openg was present at the signing, along with representatives of the state administration and Petros board, DayakDaily reported.
SoftBank, Grab and Petros divide their roles
SoftBank is expected to bring its technology and AI network to the collaboration. The areas identified for its contribution include AI infrastructure, advanced computing, semiconductors and physical AI, according to the Petros statement reported by The Edge Malaysia.
Grab’s proposed contribution is different. It covers the company’s Southeast Asian digital platforms and applied AI capabilities, as well as its regional networks of customers and partners.
Petros is to contribute energy supply and supporting infrastructure. Its role also covers work on energy supply solutions, enabling infrastructure, local engagement and participation by businesses in Sarawak’s supply chain.
The three contributions span the main parts of the proposed platform: computing expertise, access to a regional digital ecosystem, and energy infrastructure in Sarawak. The companies intend to assess how those capabilities can be combined as they develop the phased roadmap.
Petros ties the proposal to Sarawak plans
Sarawak is seeking to attract AI infrastructure and higher-value technology industries. The companies said the proposed collaboration reflects their view that the state could become a location for such activity.
Petros operates under the Sarawak Gas Roadmap and serves as Master Developer of the Kuching Low-Carbon Hub. Those existing responsibilities form part of the energy and infrastructure experience it would bring to the proposed AI platform.
Under the Madani Economy framework and the 13th Malaysia Plan, the proposed work is meant to advance Malaysia’s AI priorities and digital economy. DayakDaily reported that it is also intended to contribute to digital infrastructure and connectivity under the Jalinan Digital Negara initiative.
The parties expect the initiative to help attract investment, develop local skills and support technology-related economic activity in Sarawak and elsewhere in Malaysia. It also aligns with Sarawak’s Post COVID-19 Development Strategy 2030 and its aspiration to reach high-income status by 2030.
