Tencent Holdings Limited, a China based investment holding firm, and Tourism Malaysia are planning to jointly set up a data center in Cyberjaya, Malaysia. Sources claim that the strategic move is a part of the Smart Tourism 4.0 program launched recently in Malaysia. Under the new project, Tencent is expected to use the reproduction of its earlier digital ecosystem model.

Datuk Siew Ka Wei, the chairman of Tourism Malaysia, has stated that the group has decided to establish an incubation unit in Cyberjaya in association with the regional partner. He further added that the initiative will include not only retail firms but also airliners and myriad other players across the transport sector.

Experts are of the opinion that this smart tourism initiative will make notable contributions towards the economic growth of Malaysia considering that 8 million tourist arrivals are expected in Malaysia from China over the next two years. As per a key official of Tourism Malaysia, startups with innovative, fresh ideas will benefit commendably from the smart tourism initiative.

If reports are to be believed, the initiative is forecast to be live in the second half of this year. The program will help the Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board to promote the growth of tourism industry in the country.

Malaysia Smart Tourism 4.0 program encompasses the development of approximately 40 videos, each spanning over five minutes. These videos display exceptional holiday experiences in the country, including resorts, gastronomy, heritage, beaches, soft adventure tourism, history, and culture. It is likely that Tencent will declare the establishment of the data center in Cyberjaya by the end of the month, thereby becoming the first organization to provide services for the entire Asian region.  

It has been speculated that the Chinese retail conglomerate will support the expansion of Malaysian businesses across the China market by providing them with new technology. In return, Tourism Malaysia will offer substantial facilities to Tencent for its business growth across the country.