A COMPARATIVE LOOK

DATA CENTRE DEVELOPMENT IN SINGAPORE & MALAYSIA

by Thulasy Suppiah, Managing Partner

We’ve compared the regulations driving data centre growth in both nations, focusing on sustainability, cybersecurity, environmental assessments, and regulatory processes. As frameworks evolve, these insights are crucial for industry stakeholders.

A SUMMARY: WHERE DO WE STAND AS A NATION?

Malaysia is progressing with balanced growth and sustainability-focused frameworks, but Singapore remains ahead with advanced standards and established regulatory clarity.

GREEN DATA CENTRE STANDARD

Malaysia is progressing with balanced growth and sustainability-focused frameworks, but Singapore remains ahead with advanced standards and established regulatory clarity.

CYBERSECURITY NETWORK

Both countries have robust cybersecurity frameworks; however, Malaysia’s act is newly implemented and lacks established legal precedents, which may lead to challenges in enforcement and interpretation.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

Both countries have robust cybersecurity frameworks; however, Malaysia’s act is newly implemented and lacks established legal precedents, which may lead to challenges in enforcement and interpretation.

CALL-FOR APPLICATION SCHEME

Singapore’s CFA scheme ensures alignment with sustainability goals; Malaysia’s GPP streamlines planning but lacks an equivalent CFA mechanism, which may hinder effective oversight of new developments.

REGULATORY AUTHORITY

Singapore’s CSA has established authority with experience; Malaysia’s National Cyber Security Committee is newly formed, which may face initial challenges in establishing its effectiveness and authority.

© 2025 Suppiah & Partners. All rights reserved. The contents of this newsletter are intended for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.

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