Malaysia's Data Center Boom: A Double-Edged Sword

Johor, Malaysia, is experiencing a data center boom, attracting billions in investment but raising concerns about energy and water scarcity. The high energy and water consumption of data centers directly conflicts with local businesses, forcing some, like a thriving tropical fish farm, to relocate. While the government hopes data centers will modernize the economy, experts question their job creation benefits and worry about potential 'digital colonialism' and unsustainable environmental impacts. Johor's case highlights the challenges developing nations face in balancing economic growth with environmental protection.