This shift is driven by multinationals, governments, and startups seeking to develop artificial intelligence, establish chipmaking hubs, and secure raw computing power. The geopolitical tensions are prompting these entities to invest in Southeast Asia, positioning the region as a future tech nerve center and significantly altering the surrounding towns.
Key takeaways:
- Rapid industrial expansion is occurring in northern Vietnam, marked by infrastructure developments like sand-filled trucks and cranes.
- In Malaysia, traditional villages and palm oil plantations are being transformed into technological manufacturing hubs.
- The drive to develop AI and establish chipmaking centers is intensifying due to tensions between Beijing and Washington.
- Southeast Asia is emerging as a key region for future tech development, impacting local communities and economies.