In the latest episode of the datacenterHawk podcast, Dedi Iskandar, APAC Regional Director at datacenterHawk, sits down with Darryl Chiew, Country Manager for Thailand and Singapore at OneAsia Network. The conversation delves into the dynamic growth of Thailand's data center market, OneAsia's strategic expansion, and the evolving demands of the digital infrastructure industry.

Thailand's Emerging Data Center Market

Thailand is rapidly becoming a hotspot for data center investments, driven by government support and increasing interest from hyperscalers. Darryl Chiew highlights how the country’s strategic location and growing digital economy make it an attractive destination for operators. With only 200 MW of live capacity currently, the market is poised for significant growth, potentially outpacing neighboring Malaysia in the next few years.

OneAsia's Strategic Expansion

OneAsia Network has been at the forefront of this growth, with its first international data center in Thailand—a 20 MW facility launched in October 2023. Darryl shares plans for a second facility set to open next year, reflecting the company’s commitment to meeting rising demand. Beyond Thailand, OneAsia is also expanding into Japan and South Korea, solidifying its presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Role of AI in Driving Demand

The rise of AI technologies, particularly since the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022, has significantly influenced data center requirements. Darryl discusses how customers are building AI GPU clusters and developing custom chipsets to support advanced computing needs. This shift is creating new opportunities for data center operators to cater to specialized workloads.

Differentiating Through Value-Added Services

OneAsia sets itself apart by offering more than just colocation services. The company provides GPU orchestration software, enabling customers to manage and monetize their GPU clouds. Additionally, OneAsia’s in-house design and build capabilities, coupled with its international talent pool, allow it to deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of hyperscale and cloud customers.

Conclusion

This episode underscores the transformative potential of Thailand’s data center market and OneAsia’s pivotal role in shaping its future. As the industry evolves, operators like OneAsia are not only meeting current demands but also innovating to address emerging trends. For professionals in the digital infrastructure space, this discussion offers valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges of operating in a rapidly growing market.