Louis Lim, CEO of Keppel's Real Estate, made his statement during a meeting with Ho Chi Minh City Chairman Nguyen Van Duoc and municipal officials on Tuesday.

Keppel's investments in Vietnam, at $4 billion by far, have focused mainly on high-quality real estate projects, with an emphasis on smart and sustainable development, Lim said.

The group is seeking to advance ongoing projects in HCMC, including Saigon Centre and Saigon Sports City, while pursuing new investment opportunities. Keppel also asked the city government to provide guidance and support, particularly on investment procedures, to speed up project implementation.

Lim said Keppel could leverage its expertise in real estate, infrastructure, technology, and energy to support the city's development, including through projects incorporating technology and meeting green and sustainability standards.

In reply, the HCMC officials suggested Keppel develop next-generation data centers in the city as it aims to establish itself as a leading regional hub for innovation, technology, and digital economy.

Mayor Duoc stressed that HCMC is entering a new phase of development with ambitions to become a major economic, financial, science and technology and innovation hub in Southeast Asia. The city is prioritizing a shift toward a digital and green economy, as well as smart and sustainable urban development.

He welcomed Keppel's proposals in technology, startups, energy transition, and urban development, while pledging facilitation for projects aligned with the development priorities of Vietnam and HCMC.