12/05/2025

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MONDAY | MAY 12, 2025

SNS Network to capitalise on M’sia’s AI, data centre boom

Hannah (left) and Ralic

of industry growth, possibly even on a global scale. “Various industries will evolve with AI because everyone is striving to work more efficiently.” He pointed out that digital equipment purchased between 2020 and 2022 are now approaching their three-to five-year upgrade cycle. “It is time for many digital users to refresh their equipment. Of course, not everyone will upgrade at the same time, but the demand is already there.” Ko explained that once someone integrates digital devices – such as laptops, smartphones or other computing devices – into their daily life or work, they are unlikely to stop using them. “Instead, as their equipment ages, they are more likely to upgrade or refresh it rather than revert to a non-digital lifestyle,” he said. This ongoing need for updated devices contributes to continuous demand for new technology, driving growth in the industry. “We are seeing an organic refresh cycle that will happen over the next few years, batch by batch, across companies and organi sations. This has become a key consumer buying behaviour today,” Ko said.

o ICT services provider sees opportunities in supplying hardware and solutions and tapping into ICT refresh cycle in enterprise and consumer markets

GDA, Google.org to empower Asean MSMEs for AI economy PETALING JAYA: The Asia Foundation’s Go Digital Asean (GDA) and Google.org are stepping up their efforts to prepare micro, small and medium enterprises for the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence-driven economy. Backed by a US$27 million (RM116 million) commitment from Google.org, the initiative focuses on closing the digital gap for underserved communities – particularly women, youth, rural entrepreneurs and owners of small business. Since its inception in 2020, GDA has delivered digital upskilling programmes to over 200,000 individuals across all 10 Asean member states. In 2025, with the global economy shifting towards automation and artificial intelligence, GDA is evolving its mission to equip Southeast Asia’s MSMEs with the knowledge and tools to adapt, innovate and thrive in the AI era. GDA regional programme manager Hannah Najar said AI has the potential to unlock efficiencies, boost productivity, and create market opportunities for MSMEs. “However, without inclusive access to AI awareness and training, small businesses risk being left behind. That is what we are trying to change,” she told SunBiz . Hannah said the expanded focus is supported by Google.org’s AI Opportunity Fund, which marks a long-term investment into developing AI literacy across the region. The digital skilling gap remains a challenge across Southeast Asia, especially for small businesses operating in rural or low-connectivity areas, Hannah noted. “GDA addresses this by leveraging an extensive network of local implementing partners, ranging from civil society groups to government-linked agencies, to contextualise training and extend its reach to hard-to-access communities,” she said. Google.org Asia-Pacific lead Marija Ralic said Google recognises that digital transformation is not a one-size-fits-all process. “Each community has different needs. That is why we work closely with regional partners who understand local barriers and can deliver skills training in culturally and economically relevant ways.” Ralic said the results speak for themselves, as more than 90% of GDA beneficiaries reported a positive business impact from the programme. “Participants saw improvements in customer engagement, sales growth and overall business performance. In Malaysia, one small enterprise reported a 40% revenue increase after adopting digital strategies learned through GDA training. With MSMEs facing increasing pressure to digitalise and compete in a global market, they both noted that the GDA-Google.org part nership aims to build a strong foundation, not just for short-term gains, but for sustainable, future-facing transformation. Ű BY AIMIE SHAZRIE sunbiz@thesundaily.com

Ű BY HAYATUN RAZAK sunbiz@thesundaily.com

learning and other digital applications.” As AI adoption grows, businesses require powerful computing infrastructure to train and run AI models, which in turn fuels demand for data centres, storage solutions and networking technologies – areas where SNS Network sees strong opportunities. The AI boom, Ko said, particularly following the 2022 announcement of ChatGPT, has fuelled demand for computing power. “When we talk about AI, it is actually huge, and the opportunity is tremendous because it is one of the most important tools that will transform productivity. It will significantly improve the way we work.” He said AI adoption is growing rapidly, creating opportunities to sell various types of computing devices. “AI requires machines to run all the algorithms. No matter which language model you are using or what training you need, computing power is essential. Whether it’s GPU (graphics processing unit) power or setting up an entire cluster, that is basically our job. We work closely with our clients to provide the necessary infrastructure. This is a very exciting moment because of the vast opportunities ahead.” On the commercial side, Ko said AI use cases are increasing, leading to another wave

PETALING JAYA: SNS Network (M) Sdn Bhd is well-positioned to capitalise on Malaysia’s AI and data centre boom while tapping into the ICT refresh cycle in both enterprise and consumer markets this year, said managing director Ko Yun Hung. He said the ICT solutions provider sees opportunities in supplying AI and storage servers, networking and cybersecurity solutions to support Malaysia’s expanding data centre industry. “Once these data centres are operational, a lot of equipment is required to support them. These are areas where we play a key role, and we are definitely very excited,” Ko told SunBiz in an interview. Malaysia wrapped up 2024 as Southeast Asia’s leading data centre destination, attracting US$23 billion (RM97 billion) in investment. Ko said the industry’s rapid growth began during the Covid-19 pandemic (2020–2022) when a surge in digital adoption accelerated digital transformation. “During that time, many businesses and organisations started integrating digital devices into their operations, which led to a rise in virtual meetings, e PETALING JAYA: Berjaya Food International Sdn Bhd (BFI), a subsidiary of Berjaya Food Bhd (BFood), has taken another step forward in its global growth strategy by signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Mongolia-based BlueMon Group. The partnership sets the stage for the highly anticipated arrival of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts in Mongolia, marking the brand’s entry into a dynamic and fast-evolving consumer market. Krispy Kreme has a strong presence across key regions including North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, with a growing global footprint. The collaboration brings together BFI’s expertise in building international food and beverage brands and BlueMon Group’s local market strength. With their partnership, both companies aim to introduce the globally recognised Krispy Kreme taste, known for its signature Original Glazed doughnuts and warm, welcoming store environment to Mongolian consumers. The first Krispy Kreme outlet in Mongolia is expected to launch in the near future, with details to be disclosed soon. As Mongolia continues to diversify its economy and invest in modern urban and retail infrastructure, this expansion is well-timed with the nation’s growth trajectory. The entry of a global brand such as Krispy Kreme aligns with rising consumer demand and supports the

Even as SNS Network’s enterprise solutions are benefiting from data centre and AI-driven infrastructure growth, the company is expanding its retail footprint to serve the growing demand for consumer ICT products. In 2024, SNS launched two multibrand concept stores – GLOO Hyperstore Queensbay Mall in Penang and NB Plaza in Selangor. This year, the company plans to open three additional brand-specific stores in Penang for Honor, MI and IT World. BFood partners BlueMon Group to bring Krispy Kreme to Mongolia

From left: Berjaya Food International director Luis Daniel, Quays, Tseveen-Ochir and BlueMon chief financial officer and food & beverage head Tsogzul Bold at the MoU signing ceremony.

Mongolian market.” BlueMon Group chairman and president, Sanjjav Tseveen-Ochir said the MoU represents a key step in their ambition to elevate Mongolia’s consumer landscape with globally respected brands. “As the country continues to embrace modern dining and lifestyle trends, we believe Krispy Kreme’s iconic appeal and quality offerings will strongly resonate with Mongolian consumers. Our partnership with BFI reflects a long-term commitment to shaping the future of retail and food culture in Mongolia.”

country’s broader vision of transforming Ulaanbaatar into a thriving metropolitan hub. BFood Group CEO Datuk Sydney Quays said, “We are pleased to join forces with BlueMon Group to expand Krispy Kreme’s presence into Mongolia. Mongolia presents a promising market with a rising appetite for quality food experiences and we believe Krispy Kreme’s iconic offerings and strong brand equity will resonate deeply with consumers there. “Together, we are committed to delivering a world-class experience that aligns with the evolving tastes and aspirations of the