Vertiv to build AI-focused data centre plant in Johor

Vertiv plans to build a new manufacturing facility in Johor, Malaysia, in a move that expands its production base in Asia and targets rising demand from data centre and AI workloads.

The digital infrastructure group said the plant is scheduled to be fully operational in the first quarter of 2026. The factory will produce power and thermal management products. It will also assemble modular and prefabricated data centre systems. Vertiv said the site will create up to 500 local skilled jobs over the next three years.

The company said the investment forms part of a wider growth and capacity expansion strategy. It said this strategy responds to surging demand for AI-ready, high-density computing infrastructure across the region.

The Johor facility will manufacture coolant distribution units and other thermal management systems. It will also produce modular and prefabricated solutions for data centre deployments.

The company said these products support next-generation technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. These workloads place heavier demands on data centre power and cooling.

Vertiv said the new plant will increase its regional production volume. It expects shorter delivery times and more flexibility for customers in fast-growing Asian markets.

The company said the location in Johor offers several advantages for its manufacturing network. It cited proximity to Singapore, logistics links, and reliable utilities.

Johor sits across the border from Singapore, which is a major regional hub for data centres and cloud services. The state has developed industrial zones and transport access by road, sea, and air.

The company said the new site marks a significant step in its global manufacturing footprint.

"This new facility represents a major milestone in Vertiv's global manufacturing network. It gives us the scale, flexibility, and proximity we need to meet our customers' needs quickly and reliably," said Andrew Whall, vice president of operations at Vertiv Asia. "It also represents Vertiv's steady investment in continuous growth and manufacturing excellence."

Vertiv said the project underlines its long-term presence in Asia. The company already operates across more than 130 countries worldwide, with a mix of manufacturing plants, service centres, and sales offices.

The firm said it will invest in people and training in Malaysia. It plans to build a local workforce that can support the new facility's operations.

The planned 500 jobs will include technical, engineering, and production roles. The company also expects supporting functions in areas such as quality, logistics, and management.

Vertiv said the factory will use modern automation technologies. It said this will create an efficient and streamlined production environment. The company said these tools will support operational and manufacturing efficiency. It aims to scale output quickly while maintaining quality standards. Vertiv also said it will focus on environmental responsibility at the Johor site. It did not disclose specific sustainability targets for the plant.

Whall said the project has implications for both the company and the local economy.

"A facility of this importance depends on a highly skilled and engaged workforce, and we're proud to be creating meaningful, high-value jobs in the region that support both our long-term growth and Malaysia's broader economic ambitions," said Whall.

The new factory is expected to come online in stages ahead of full operations in 2026. Vertiv said the site will sit within its broader global manufacturing network and will support regional demand for AI and cloud infrastructure.