KUALA LUMPUR: The Jakel family has committed RM1 billion in capital for investment in 2024, with an even larger capital commitment expected in 2025, according to Muhammad Ashraf, director of Jakel Capital Sdn Bhd. 

He said that digital infrastructure is a key component of the group's diversification strategy.

Jakel Group is partnering with PiDC Holding Bhd to jointly construct a 51 MW data centre in Cyberjaya, Selangor, valued at RM1.2 billion. 

In addition to this venture, Jakel's strategic investments include a significant stake in Cypark Resources Bhd, a renewable energy firm, where Jakel became the largest shareholder in January 2023.

For the data centre in Cyberjaya, Jakel would hold a 40 per cent stake in the project, Pi Data Centre Sdn Bhd (PiDCSB), while PiDC would retain the remaining 60 per cent, according to a statement.

The state-of-the-art Tier III data centre will cover a 7.3-acre site in Cyberjaya. The project will be executed in three phases, with construction of the first phase starting in the third quarter of this year and expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2025. 

PiDCSB has received RM253.5 million in Tawarruq asset financing facilities from Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Bhd for the development of the data centre.

The data centre is designed to achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver and GreenRe Gold certifications, demonstrating its commitment to eco-friendly practices in design, construction, and operations. 

According to Jakel, a significant portion of the phase 1 capacity is already committed, indicating strong demand for data centres in Malaysia.

Jakel managing director Datuk Seri Mohamed Faroz Mohamed described the investment as a pivotal move in the group's strategy to diversify its portfolio into digital infrastructure, moving beyond its traditional businesses in textiles, property, plantations, healthcare, and military equipment. 

"This investment underscores our dedication to exploring new opportunities and expanding our expertise in dynamic markets. Additionally, the project aligns with broader national agendas, such as MyDIGITAL.

"It will contribute to the development of robust digital infrastructure and facilitate the growth of the digital workforce, enhancing Malaysia's capabilities in digital innovation," he said.

https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2024/06/1058316/jakel-committed-invest-rm1bil-year-and-more-2025-expand