French energy technology company Schneider Electric has announced plans to establish a Southeast Asia training hub in Malaysia as the region experiences rapid growth in artificial intelligence infrastructure and data centers. The new facility is expected to open later in 2026 and will focus on building technical expertise in energy management, semiconductor operations, and AI-driven infrastructure systems.
The move comes as Southeast Asia’s data centre capacity is projected to triple by 2030, with Malaysia emerging as one of the region’s biggest investment destinations for digital infrastructure. Major technology companies including Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, and Google have already announced significant data center and cloud investments in the country, increasing demand for skilled professionals and energy-efficient infrastructure solutions.
According to Henri Berthe, president of Schneider Electric’s semiconductors and battery segment, the training centre will provide hands-on technical training for regional partners and end users, including semiconductor companies and data center operators. The facility will use operational equipment ranging from medium-voltage energy management systems to advanced cooling and data center technologies.
The initiative also reflects Schneider Electric’s broader push into AI-powered infrastructure and sustainable energy solutions. The company has been benefiting from rising global demand for server racks, power systems, and cooling technologies required to support AI workloads and hyperscale data centres. Schneider has additionally been integrating AI into its own operations through predictive energy management systems that help optimize cooling and reduce energy consumption in high-power facilities.
Malaysia’s importance in the semiconductor industry also played a major role in the decision. The country currently accounts for around 13% of global semiconductor testing and packaging activity, making it a strategic location for AI and chip-related investments. Industry analysts view Schneider Electric’s new training hub as part of a wider trend where global infrastructure and energy firms are investing heavily in Asia to support the next phase of AI expansion and digital transformation.
