Princeton Digital Group delivers phase one of its 150+MW AI-ready JH1 campus in Johor

• The data center enables expansion to campuses in Singapore, Batam & Johor
• Secured a US$280M green loan for JH1 to reduce resource consumption & emissions

Princeton Digital Group (PDG), Asia’s leading data center provider, has announced the official delivery of Phase One of its state-of-the-art 150MW JH1 data center campus, located in Sedenak Tech Park, Johor. One of the largest data center campuses in Southeast Asia, JH1 is PDG’s flagship AI-ready facility in Malaysia serving some of the largest technology companies, the company said in a statement.

Delivered in just 12 months, Phase One, comprising 52MW of the JH1 campus, represents further validation of PDG's SG+® strategy that enables customers to seamlessly expand their infrastructure from Singapore to highly scalable data center campuses located in Singapore, Batam, and Johor. The JH1 campus incorporates cutting-edge sustainable technologies and next-generation design.

The rooftop of the project will be utilised for generating renewable energy through the installation of solar panels. In May this year, PDG secured its first US$280 million (RM1.276 billion) green loan for JH1, which represented a major milestone in contributing to minimising resource consumption and emissions of the region’s AI infrastructure.

Onn Hafiz bin Ghazi, Menteri Besar Johor, said, “We are proud to witness the delivery of Phase One of PDG’s JH1 campus, which has been one of the fastest projects to be launched in Johor. It not only signifies a significant investment in our state's infrastructure but also brings forth immense opportunities for technological advancement and economic growth. This initiative will undoubtedly bolster Johor’s position as a hub for innovation and attract further investment, ensuring a prosperous future for our state and its people.”

Tengku Zafrul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI), stated, "Delivery of Princeton Digital Group’s JH1 data center campus within 12 months after it was first announced reflects the speed of Malaysia’s investment facilitation, and MITI’s pro-industry, pro-investment stance. Indeed, Malaysia's growing stature as a regional leader in Asia’s digital economy, particularly for sustainable data centers, is evident from recent major investment announcements by global tech giants. Through our clear policies and strong execution, US$34 billion (RM161.97 billion) in digital investments have been approved from 2021 to March 2024, and we are pleased to see many earlier commitments coming to fruition.”

He added, "PDG's green data center supports the nation’s aspirations to leverage tech to bridge opportunity gaps in areas such as education and business for all Malaysians, as outlined in the Madani Economic Framework, and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030."

“Data centers form the cornerstone of the digital ecosystem, facilitating the seamless flow of data, enabling generative AI, and empowering hyperscalers to innovate at unparalleled levels. We are highly appreciative of the steadfast support of the Malaysian government, whose proactive policies have played a pivotal role in creating a supportive environment for the industry. JH1 is further testament to our unmatched track record of execution as a leading pan-Asian data center operator,” said Rangu Salgame, chairman, CEO, and co-founder of PDG.

Also witnessing the momentous occasion, Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority, stated, "PDG's decision to establish its flagship AI-ready facility in Malaysia cements our nation’s status as the premier investment hub in the region for AI data centers. As Malaysia continues to establish itself as a key player in the global digital economy, the JH1 campus will play a crucial role in driving innovation and fostering a knowledge-based economy.

He added, "MIDA assumes a crucial role in attracting top-tier digital investments, ensuring that projects like the JH1 campus contribute substantially to our nation's economic expansion, technological progress, and sustainable development. PDG’s comprehensive strategy of utilising renewable energy through rooftop solar panels showcases that technological advancements can harmoniously integrate with sustainable practices. Their efforts to reduce resource consumption and emissions are in perfect alignment with our goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.”

As part of this ceremony, PDG also signed an energy supply agreement for the entire capacity of the JH1 campus with Tenaga Nasional Berhad. This follows the successful energisation of the first phase by TNB under the Green Lane Pathway initiative. Asher Ling, chief technology officer and managing director of Singapore, PDG emphasised the company’s commitment to expanding its presence in Malaysia. “This is a proud moment for PDG to deliver Phase One of JH1. However, establishing a state-of-the-art green data center campus like this goes beyond economic growth; it's also about PDG’s commitment to nurturing talent and creating jobs in this rapidly growing industry. We are dedicated to equipping individuals with the skills they need to thrive as data center professionals and being strong contributors to the local Johor community," she added. 

In October 2023, PDG was awarded Malaysia Digital Status, which is Malaysia’s highest recognition of excellence for digital companies. The award demonstrated PDG’s commitment to the country and its support of the development and growth of local talent.

Mahadhir Aziz, CEO of Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), said, "MDEC is proud to support PDG's progress made in Johor here today, as we are dedicated to expanding the nation's data center infrastructure and enhancing our digital ecosystem and competitiveness. This partnership aligns with the Malaysia Digital national strategic initiative, underscoring our commitment to nurturing talent, driving innovation, and establishing Malaysia as the digital hub of ASEAN. Together, we are paving the way for a prosperous and sustainable digital future."