Google breaks ground on Singapore data centre

The search giant broke ground for the facility yesterday (15 December). This will be second data centre in Asia, after last week's launch of the first in Hong Kong.

Completion of the centre in Singapore is expected by early 2013, providing jobs for a small team of full time staff as well as a number of contractors in a variety of roles including computer technicians, electrical and mechanical engineers and catering and security staff.

Julian Persaud, head of Google Southeast Asia, noted that the data centre helps the company in better serving its users across the region.

“More new users are coming online every day in Asia than anywhere else in the world, looking for information and entertainment, new business opportunities and better ways to connect with friends and family, near and far.”

Google will also be launching a community grants program, in line with its commitment to play a positive role in every community it is a part of.

It will provide annual grants ranging from US$5,000 to US$50,000 to organisations that focus on issues such as technology literacy and innovation, renewable energy innovation and new economy entrepreneurship.

It is partnering with IAB Singapore for a US$50,000 grant towards equipping young Singaporeans entering workforce with the digital career skills and knowledge they need to thrive in Singapore’s internet economy.