Media Release Archives - MIDA | Malaysian Investment Development Authority
EnglishB. MelayuDeutsch日本語简体中文
contrastBtngrayscaleBtn oku-icon

|

plusBtn crossBtn minusBtn

|

This site
is mobile
responsive

sticky-logo

MIDA Launches One-Stop Digital System for Expatriate Applications, Cutting Red Tape for Investors

Effective 16 March 2026, the MIDA Expatriate System (MES) consolidates end-to-end expatriate application management, from approval to ePass endorsement, within a single digital platform

Kuala Lumpur, 12 March 2026 –Malaysia is streamlining how companies hire and manage foreign talent. Effective 16 March 2026, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), the principal investment promotion agency for the Government, will centralise expatriate application processes for the manufacturing and selected services sectors under a single digital platform – the MIDA Expatriate System (MES).  The move eliminates duplicated processes, reduces waiting time, and gives investors a transparent, end-to-end view of their applications at every stage.

Since 2003, MIDA has been officially appointed as an expatriate approving agency for manufacturing and selected services sectors. Since then, MIDA has built the infrastructure, expertise and institutional relationships to manage expatriate applications from end-to-end. A dedicated Immigration Unit, established in 2007, further strengthened this capability. Now, MES formalises and digitises this into a single coherent platform, providing investors for convenience to refer to only one place from submission to approvals to ePass endorsement.

Built on InvestMalaysia, MIDA’s official digital investment platform operational since 2017, MES integrates directly with the Malaysian Immigration System (MYImms), a primary Immigration’s computerised system, to manage the full lifecycle of expatriate applications through a single login and one-time document submission. Applications submitted via the Xpats Gateway platform are channelled into InvestMalaysia, which handles all stages including company registration, expatriate post and Employment Pass approvals, and ePass endorsement. The integration ensures faster processing, consistent evaluation standards nationwide, and clear tracking at every step.

Since June 2023, MIDA has evaluated more than 50,000 applications for expatriate posts and Employment Passes, underpinned by clear guidelines, experienced officers, established governance frameworks, and longstanding working arrangements with the Immigration Department. MES digitalises and integrates what were previously separate processes, bringing them into one coherent system without creating new infrastructure or additional layers of bureaucracy.

The system reinforces MIDA’s role as the sole agency mandated by the Ministry of Home Affairs since 2023 to evaluate and approve expatriate posts and Employment Pass applications for companies under MIDA’s purview through a more coordinated and efficient framework, while maintaining the necessary security, verification and compliance standards under the Immigration Department.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, MIDA CEO

MIDA Chief Executive Officer Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said the system delivers what investors have consistently asked for.

“Every time an investor has to chase an approval across different agencies, Malaysia loses ground. We cannot afford that. MIDA has been the mandated authority for expatriate approvals in this space since 2003. Over 50,000 applications have gone through our framework. The expertise is here, the systems are here, and now the platform is here too. MES is not a new idea. It is a long-overdue integration of what already works, built into something investors can rely on from day one.”

In addition, the Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre (IMFC), a one-stop-centre for investment-related matters commenced in MIDA since 1 December 2023, strengthens the implementation of the MES by enabling closer coordination between the Immigration Department representative stationed at MIDA in managing expatriate-related processes. Through IMFC, the Department is able to support a more integrated and efficient workflow covering key stages of the applications.

MES is a collaborative initiative between MIDA, the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Immigration Department of Malaysia, and Malaysia Expatriate Services Centre Sdn. Bhd. (MyXpats Centre), a subsidiary of TalentCorp Group of Companies. The system is fully aligned with the Government’s agenda under the MADANI Economy Framework to rationalise investment promotion agencies, reduce duplication, and strengthen Malaysia’s position as a competitive investment destination.

Full application guidelines and FAQs will be available on MIDA’s website from 16 March 2026. Please visit https://www.mida.gov.my/forms-and-guidelines/ for more information.

*****

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA partners with investors at every stage of their journey, supporting sustainable growth and long-term value creation for Malaysia. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow MIDA on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.

For Media Inquiries, Please Contact:

Ms. Azrina Binti Hashim
Director, Industry Talent Management and Expatriate Division, MIDA
Phone: +603-2267 3454 | E-mail: [email protected]

Manufacturing: All sub-sectors, with a focus on high-technology, automotive (EEVs/NxGVs), and aerospace

Selected Services Sectors under MIDA’s purview include: Global Services Hub (GSH), Representative/Regional Offices (RE/RO), R&D services, hotel and tourism projects, private higher education (science courses) and technical & vocational training institutions, oil & gas services, green technology (renewable energy, integrated waste management, EV charging stations, solar leasing), integrated logistics services (ILS), cold chain facilities (CCF), digital infrastructure, and smart logistics complexes (SLC).

MIDA Launches One-Stop Digital System for Expatriate Applications, Cutting Red Tape for Investors


Content Type:

Duration:

Kuala Lumpur, 6 March 2026 – Malaysia recorded RM426.7 billion in approved  investments for 2025, the highest level ever achieved. This represents an 11.0%  increase from RM384.4 billion in 2024, marking continued growth in the country’s  investment performance. This achievement comes amid a cautious global climate. The  International Monetary Fund (IMF), in its World Economic Outlook, projected global  growth at 3.3% in 20261

According to UNCTAD’s Global Investment Trends Monitor (January 2026), although  global FDI flows rose 14% in 20252, much of the growth was concentrated in financial  centres rather than in productive assets, with actual investment activity remaining  subdued. In contrast, Malaysia’s performance is anchored in tangible project  commitments: 8,390 approved projects across services, manufacturing, and primary  sectors, expected to generate 244,902 new jobs.

Beyond the record total, key indicators also showed improvement. The number of  approved projects rose by 9.2%, while expected job creation increased by 17.9%.  Domestic investments (DI) totalled RM219.6 billion (51.5%), while foreign investments  (FI) increased by 20.9% to RM207.1 billion (48.5%). Foreign investments grew across  all three economic sectors: 63.4% in the primary sector, 28.7% in services, and 13.1%  in manufacturing – reflecting continued international confidence in Malaysia as an  investment destination. This balanced composition reflects strong domestic  participation alongside sustained foreign investor interest.

The composition of FI3 also reflects evolving regional trends. Singapore (RM58.3 billion)  and the People’s Republic of China (RM58.0 billion) were the two largest sources,  followed by the United States (RM15.1 billion), Japan (RM7.6 billion) and Hong Kong  SAR (RM7.1 billion), rounding out the top five.

On the domestic front, five states emerged as the leading investment destination: Johor  (RM110.0 billion), Selangor (RM83.9 billion), Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur  (RM63.3 billion), Pulau Pinang (RM32.9 billion) and Kedah (RM27.8 billion), collectively  accounting for 74.5% of total approved investments.

“Malaysia’s record RM426.7 billion in approved investments for 2025 is a  milestone that belongs to every Malaysian. Through MITI and MIDA’s sustained  efforts, we have not only achieved the highest investment approvals in our  nation’s history but done so with the right quality. Nearly 245,000 jobs are being  created, growth is reaching our Less Developed States, and our manufacturing  sector is steadily climbing the value chain. What gives me equal confidence is  the balance of this achievement. More than half of our approved investments  came from domestic sources, a clear signal that Malaysian businesses believe in  this country’s direction and future. At the same time, foreign investment surged  by 20.9 per cent, reflecting sustained international confidence in Malaysia as a  destination for long-term, high-quality capital. With the New Incentive Framework  now in effect and the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan guiding our national ambitions,  MITI and MIDA remain fully committed to ensuring that every ringgit invested  delivers lasting and meaningful value for the Rakyat.”

— YB Tuan Sim Tze Tzin, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry  (MITI)

SERVICES SECTOR: SUSTAINING ECONOMIC MOMENTUM

The services sector secured RM281.3 billion in approved investments – 65.9% of the  national total – involving 7,004 projects and is projected to generate 134,926 new jobs,  the largest share of total job creation.

Domestic sources contributed 63.0% (RM177.2 billion), while foreign investment made  up 37.0% (RM104.1 billion), representing a 28.7% year-on-year increase.

Spearheading the Digital Frontier

The information and communication4 sub-sector led the surge with RM152.9 billion. A  lion’s share of this approvals is driven by digital investments in Artificial Intelligence (AI),  Big Data, data centres and cloud computing.

Data centres are projected to contribute RM14.1 billion to Malaysia’s economy in 2025.  And their energy demands are accelerating our transition to renewable energy, driving  the expansion of Large-Scale Solar projects toward our goal of 70 per cent renewable  energy by 20505.

According to UNCTAD, data centres accounted for more than one-fifth of all global  greenfield project value in 2025, with investments exceeding USD270 billion worldwide,  driven by demand for artificial intelligence and expanding digital networks6. France, the

United States, and South Korea were among the leading host countries, while Malaysia  was identified alongside Brazil, India, and Thailand as an emerging destination  attracting large-scale digital investments.

MITI and MIDA have moved on two fronts:

The Data Centre Task Force (DCTF), established since February 2025 as a  joint platform between MITI and the Ministry of Digital, streamlines the  industry’s trajectory to ensure Malaysia remains a competitive and investor friendly regional digital hub.

● Enhancements to the Digital Ecosystem Acceleration (DESAC) scheme,  have introduced rigorous sustainability benchmarks, including Power Usage  Effectiveness (PUE) and Water Usage Effectiveness (WUE) metrics, while  prioritising local ecosystem development through greater participation of  local vendors, the creation of high-value jobs, and closer collaboration with  universities and technical institutes in IT and engineering to support the digital  industry.

Beyond digital investments, the services sector’s growth was further supported by  strong performances in: 

● Real Estate: RM78.2 billion, 21.2% increase from RM64.5 billion in 2024,  involving 1,123 projects across residential, serviced apartment, and commercial  developments nationwide, including an integrated energy hub and deep-sea port  project aligned with Malaysia’s green energy transition under NIMP 2030 and  NETR. 

● Utilities7: RM13.7 billion 

● Support Services8: RM12.6 billion 

● Distributive Trade: RM10.8 billion

MANUFACTURING SECTOR: ADVANCING THE VALUE CHAIN

The manufacturing sector recorded RM131.3 billion in approved investments in 2025,  representing 30.8% of Malaysia’s total approved investments, across 1,354 projects.  Foreign investments (FI) accounted for RM100.6 billion (76.6%), while domestic  investments (DI) contributed a substantial RM30.7 billion (23.4%). This continued inflow  of capital underscores Malaysia’s position as a competitive destination for high technology and advanced manufacturing activities.

A Talent-Driven Industrial Evolution

These investments are projected to generate 109,950 new jobs, with 82.3% (90,497  positions) earmarked for Malaysians. Nearly half of these positions (46.3%) fall within  managerial, and technical categories, indicating a continued shift towards higher-skilled  employment.

This workforce transformation is reflected in the Managerial, Technical, and  Supervisory (MTS) Index, which measures the skill intensity in the manufacturing  sector. In 2025, the MTS Index rose to 42.8% (representing 47,111 positions), marking  29.1% year-on-year increase from 41.6% in 2024. This progress supports Malaysia’s  goal under NIMP 2030 to build a more competitive and high-income workforce.

To support this momentum, MIDA’s Special Taskforce on Talent Facilitation (STF-TF),  comprising 17 ministries and academic institutions works to bridge the gap between  evolving industrial needs and talent supply as investments move into higher-value  activities.

This focus on higher-value activities is also reflected in key industrial sub-sectors. The  E&E industry remains a cornerstone of Malaysia’s manufacturing prowess, securing  RM28.5 billion, and affirming its role in the global technology supply chain through AI  and green technologies integration. The Chemicals and Chemical Products industry  recorded RM24.9 billion in investments, underscoring its importance to Malaysia’s  advanced industrial ecosystem.

Other industries contributing to the manufacturing sector’s growth include:

● Transport Equipment – RM14.9 billion 

● Basic Metal Products – RM11.1 billion 

● Machinery and Equipment (M&E) – RM11.0 billion

INDUSTRIAL CLUSTERS: BUILDING CRITICAL MASS

Malaysia’s key industrial clusters continue to gain depth and momentum, evolving into  strong, self-reinforcing ecosystems that attract quality investments. Pulau Pinang’s  well-established E&E cluster secured 83 projects worth RM11.3 billion, with 78%  driven by foreign investors. This reflects sustained confidence in the state’s five-decade  strength in electronics and its critical role in global technology supply chains.

The automotive cluster in Tanjong Malim recorded six projects valued at RM3.6  billion, including new investments in electric and hybrid vehicle manufacturing. This  reinforces Malaysia’s growing presence in next-generation mobility and clean  transportation technologies.

Meanwhile, the southern petrochemical cluster spanning Pengerang, Tanjung Langsat  and Pasir Gudang attracted nine projects worth RM7.5 billion, including Sustainable  Aviation Fuel (SAF) production – positioning Malaysia in a niche expected to grow as  aviation decarbonisation pressures mount.

PRIMARY SECTOR DEMONSTRATES OPPORTUNITY

The primary sector recorded RM14.2 billion in approved investments, representing  3.3% of the total approvals. Across 32 projects, the sector is projected to generate over  28 new jobs, with investments concentrated in mining (RM14.1 billion) and agriculture  (RM51.4 million). While modest in scale, the sector reflects continued strategic interest  in resource-based and upstream activities.

INCLUSIVE GROWTH: REACHING BEYOND THE TRADITIONAL CENTRES

The Less Developed States (LDS) – Perlis, Kedah, Terengganu, Kelantan, Sabah, and  Sarawak – secured 941 projects worth RM66.0 billion in 2025, representing 15.5% of  total national approved investments, and projected to create 23,617 jobs.

Kedah led with RM27.8 billion, driven primarily by manufacturing activities, followed by  Sabah (RM14.6 billion) and Sarawak (RM14.2 billion). Although disparities remain, the  investment trajectory in these states is consistent with the National Investment  Aspirations’ emphasis on inclusiveness and the priorities under the 13th Malaysia Plan  (2026-2030).

CONTINUED FOCUS ON QUALITY AND SUSTAINABLE INVESTMENT OUTREACH

Malaysia’s drive to attract quality and sustainable investments continues across global  markets. From 2025 to date, MITI and MIDA have undertaken 13 high-level overseas  missions to key markets including the United States of America, several European  countries, and the People’s Republic of China, complemented by strategic working visits  led by the Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. These engagements have  opened new pathways for investment opportunities worldwide.

This proactive outreach is reflected in Malaysia’s current investment landscape, with a  strong pipeline of high-potential projects, reinforcing its position as a competitive  investment destination. As of 2 February 2026, MIDA is overseeing 172 pipeline projects  with proposed investments totalling RM29.1 billion.

Of these, 101 projects are in the services sector (RM18.4 billion), while 71 projects are  in the manufacturing sector (RM10.7 billion).

Additionally, RM65.5 billion in high-potential investment leads are currently under active  negotiation by MIDA, reflecting sustained investor confidence in Malaysia’s economic  fundamentals.

IMPLEMENTATION OF APPROVED MANUFACTURING PROJECTS

Malaysia’s investment performance is measured not only by approvals but by  implementation. Strategic platforms such as the National Committee on Investment  (NIC), the Investment and Trade Coordination Action Committee, and the Invest  Malaysia Facilitation Centre continue to assume a pivotal role in ensuring smooth  project execution.

MITI and MIDA continue to work closely with federal and state stakeholders to facilitate  and monitor project implementation.

Between 2021 and 2025, the National Committee on Investment approved 4,848 manufacturing projects, of which: 

84.9% have reached various implementation stages, ranging from production to  factory construction and machinery installation. 

12.0% are in the planning phase, focusing on site selection and consultations  with developers. 

● Only 3.1% of projects were abandoned, highlighting Malaysia’s strong project  realisation rate.

Annual data shows that: 

More than 90% of approved manufacturing projects in 2021 and 2024 have  been implemented. 

● Projects approved in 2025 have recorded a 62.2% implementation rate, in line  with the typical 18 to 24 months development cycle for completion, depending  on project complexity.

“Malaysia’s investment success is no accident – it is the product of clear  policies, consistent institutions, and the reforms we put in place since early 2023.  With the MADANI Economic Framework, NIMP 2030, and MITI’s policy  architecture giving investors certainty, and with 84.9% of approved  manufacturing projects already realised or underway — we have shown how  Malaysia can stay resilient even as the world turns uncertain. The new facilities,  advanced technologies, and quality jobs created in recent years reflect our  whole-of-nation capability to turn investor confidence into industrial growth,  while maintaining Malaysia’s position as a competitive and resilient investment  destination.”

— YM Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Aziz, Chairman of MIDA and Senior  Political Advisor to the Prime Minister.

MODERNISING THE INVESTMENT LANDSCAPE 

Malaysia’s record investment performance is being matched by reforms to strengthen its  investment architecture. The reforms aim to ensure that Malaysia’s future growth is  defined not only by volume, but by quality and long-term economic impact:

New Incentive Framework (NIF): Effective 1 March 2026, the NIF shifts Malaysia  toward an outcome-based model. It prioritises high-impact investments that meet  specific National Investment Aspirations (NIA). The framework begins with the  manufacturing sector, with a phased rollout to the services sector scheduled for  the second quarter of 2026. 

Industrial Development Act 2026: Replacing the Industrial Coordination Act  1975, this represents a generational update of Malaysia’s industrial regulatory  framework, introducing a more agile, transparent and facilitative approach to  ensure regulation keeps pace with technological advancement and evolving  investor expectations. 

Climate Change Bill: Anticipated to be tabled in the current parliamentary session,  the Bill will establish the legal architecture for Malaysia’s transition to a low-carbon  economy, providing the governance clarity and market signals that sustainability conscious investors increasingly require. 

MIDA Transformation Agenda: MIDA continues to strengthen its role in  coordinating the end-to-end investor journey and driving investment policies that  support a sustainable and competitive industrial ecosystem. 

These initiatives are engineered to reinforce Malaysia’s competitiveness, ensuring that  record-breaking investment inflows translate into tangible economic benefits and high quality opportunities for the Rakyat.

A FUTURE BUILT ON RESILIENCE, INNOVATION, AND ECONOMIC PROSPERITY

Malaysia’s transformative investment journey represents a bold step towards building  a resilient, innovative, and prosperous future. With a robust policy framework and  unwavering investor confidence, the nation is poised to strengthen its global standing  as a premier, world-class investment destination.

“At MIDA, our focus goes beyond attracting investments, it is about ensuring that  approved projects are implemented efficiently and successfully on the ground.  Over the years, we have strengthened our facilitation mechanisms, enhanced  coordination across government agencies, and deepened our engagement with  investors to support the timely realisation of projects. These efforts reflect  MIDA’s ongoing evolution into a more agile and responsive investment promotion agency, committed to partnering with investors throughout their  journey and delivering lasting value to Malaysia’s economy.”

— Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA

From Left: Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil, Deputy Secretary General (Investment & Management) MITI; YB Sim Tze Tzin, Deputy Minister of MITI; YM Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Chairman of MIDA and Senior Political Advisor to the Prime Minister; and Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of MIDA.

1https://www.imf.org/en/publications/weo/issues/2026/01/19/world-economic-outlook-update-january-2026

2 https://unctad.org/publication/global-investment-trends-monitor-no-50 

3 Compilation of foreign investments is based on the ultimate source. The ultimate source refers to the home country of the foreign  investor that holds control over the decision-making process and investment management, even if the investment flows through  several intermediary sources.

4Information and communication comprise of Telecommunications, MSC Status/MD Status and ICT Services

5BNM Quarterly Bulletin Vol. 41 No. 3 Third Quarter 2025

 6 https://unctad.org/news/data-centres-are-reshaping-global-investment-landscape

7Utilities comprise of Energy (Generation, Transmission and Distribution) and Water (Development of Water Services Industry)

8Support Services comprise of R&D, Logistics Services, Green Technology, Design Services, Professional Services and Other  Support Services

***THE END***

About MIDA 

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency  under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive  investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in  Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA partners  with investors at every stage of their journey, supporting sustainable growth and long term value creation for Malaysia. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow MIDA on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Ms. Fatmah Ahmad
Director of Corporate Communications Division
Email: [email protected]
Tel.: +603-2263 2428

Explainer: DOSM’s FDI and MIDA’s approved Foreign Investment (FI) 

There has been some confusion on the term Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) as reported by the Department of  Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), and the approved Foreign Investment (FI) data as captured by MIDA. To clarify, the  Government has determined the use of these terms since December 2023, as follows: 

MIDA reports on approved Foreign Investments (FI) – These represent proposed investment projects with  foreign equity participation that have been granted licenses, incentives, permits, grants, soft loans, etc., by  relevant Ministries and Agencies. They are measured based on CAPEX and OPEX, such as land, building,  and resources. Approved FI reflects potential investments into the country which will be realised into actual  inflows over a specified period, usually across multiple years. On average, 18-24 months is the typical  duration to complete the required regulatory steps between approval and implementation, before projects  get off the ground. The release of approved FI data serves as a forward-looking indicator of investor’s  confidence, the strength of Malaysia’s investment prospects, and the key sectors attracting foreign investors. 

DOSM reports on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) – This figure refers to investments by non-residents via  transactions of financial instruments, including equity, reinvestment of earnings and debt instruments (such  as inter-company loans and advances, trade credits, etc.). For instance, if a foreign investor buys shares in  a Malaysian company, this would be captured by DOSM’s FDI data. FDI statistics for Malaysia are compiled  as part of the balance of payments, which is compiled based on the IMF’s BPM6 guidelines.

Malaysia Breaks Investment Record with RM426.7 Billion in 2025, Up  11% Year-On-Year; Creating Over 240,000 New Jobs


Content Type:

Duration:

KUALA LUMPUR, 16 February 2026 — MIDA’s Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre (IMFC), established in December 2023 to ensure approved investments translate into operational reality, has resolved more than 44,000 investor cases with an implementation rate of 99.9 percent. MIDA Chairman YM Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz shared the milestone today at an appreciation luncheon for IMFC partner agencies.

These figures reflect a deliberate shift in Malaysia’s approach to investments, to cover not only promotion but also effective execution. Out of 4,377 manufacturing projects approved between 2021 to September 2025, 90 percent are already operational.

These figures were shared during MIDA’s appreciation luncheon to recognise the contributions of officials and representatives from 12 partner ministries and agencies who have been instrumental in IMFC’s success, particularly in ensuring a smoother investor journey, and realising approved investments as quickly as possible for the benefit of Malaysian companies and SMEs, as well as our people.

“Investment promotion cannot end with the issuance of an approval letter. What matters is what happens after,” said YM Tengku Zafrul. “Every one of those 44,000 cases represents a moment where an investor needed a problem solved quickly and competently. IMFC exists to provide speedy resolution, regulatory certainty and access to the right resources for investors – which collectively strengthen Malaysia’s
competitiveness and safeguard livelihoods for Malaysia to deliver the benefits of the ‘People Economy’ on the ground.”

A WHOLE-OF-GOVERNMENT OPERATION

The IMFC operates as a coordinated platform spanning 12 ministries and agencies. The Immigration Department of Malaysia has facilitated 34,099 cases, the Royal Malaysian Customs Department 4,418, and the Inland Revenue Board 1,767. Tenaga Nasional Berhad, the Ministry of Human Resources, PERKESO, and Telekom Malaysia have collectively addressed hundreds more.

The practical consequences of this coordination are visible in individual cases. In one instance, IMFC facilitation compressed what would ordinarily be a five-month power infrastructure process into three days, enabling a major semiconductor manufacturer to remain on schedule. In another, streamlined customs clearance at entry ports supported a multinational’s expansion programme. A third company benefited from swift resolution of an electrical supply issue that could have delayed operations by months.

MIDA Chief Executive Officer Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid attributed IMFC’s effectiveness to a culture of end-to-end accountability.

“What distinguishes the IMFC model is something that goes beyond structure and process. It is a mindset,” said Datuk Sikh Shamsul. “The IMFC team operates with a sense of ownership over every case. There is no passing of files from one desk to another without accountability. When an agency partner is needed, the coordination happens immediately, not after several rounds of correspondence. This end-to-end accountability is what investors notice, and it is what sets Malaysia apart.”

RISING IN GLOBAL RANKINGS

Malaysia’s improvement in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking, from 34th to 23rd, reflects the cumulative effect of these facilitation efforts. MIDA views the country’s ability to convert approved investments into functioning operations as a meaningful competitive differentiator amid geostrategic tensions, supply chain reconfigurations, and rising economic nationalism.

“Through extensive conversations with investors, both foreign and domestic, I have observed that their requirements extend beyond financial incentives alone,” YM Tengku Zafrul said. “They consistently emphasise three fundamental priorities: speed of execution, policy certainty and consistency, and strategic access to skilled talent, reliable infrastructure, and senior decision-makers who understand their business.”

NATIONWIDE EXPANSION AND STRATEGIC REORIENTATION

IMFC Johor, launched in February 2025 as part of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone framework and jointly operated by IRDA, Invest Johor, and MIDA, has received approximately 1,000 investment enquiries since its establishment. In 2026, The Government intends to expand the IMFC model to other regions, ensuring that quality investment facilitation extends beyond the Klang Valley.

The expansion coincides with a broader strategic shift. MIDA’s New Incentive Framework, implemented in the first quarter of 2026, directs support toward investors contributing advanced technologies, creating quality employment, and delivering substantive returns to the Malaysian economy. Through the InvestLokal initiative, MIDA is also strengthening its engagement with domestic investors, particularly small and medium enterprises.

MIDA’s TRACK (Project Implementation and Facilitation Office) complements IMFC through its On-Track Digital System, which provides real-time project tracking to enhance transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency from approval through to implementation.

“Given finite public resources, we must be strategic and deliberate in allocating our support,” YM Tengku Zafrul said. “We are now directing support toward investors who contribute advanced technologies, create quality employment, and deliver substantive returns to the Malaysian economy. We are shifting our emphasis from volume to value, from approvals to outcomes.”

Datuk Sikh Shamsul added: “From an operational perspective, MIDA is fully prepared to execute whatever strategic direction is set. Our team is more experienced, more integrated, and more committed than ever before. The foundation we have built through IMFC over the past two years gives us the confidence to move into the next phase.”

-End-

About MIDA
MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA partners with investors at every stage of their journey, supporting sustainable growth and long-term value creation for Malaysia. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my
and follow MIDA on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.

For media enquiries:


MIDA
Cik Zabidah Daud
Director, Post-Investment Division
Email : [email protected]
Tel.: +603- 2267 6719

Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre: More Than 44,000 Investor Cases Resolved, 99.9% Implementation Rate Within Two Years


Content Type:

Duration:

Kuala Lumpur, 13 February 2026 — Heng Hiap Industries Sdn. Bhd. (HHI), Malaysia’s leading integrated plastic recycler and circular solutions provider, announced that it has become the first mechanical and chemical plastic recycler in Southeast Asia to receive B Corporation (B Corp) certification. This achievement follows the company’s successful grant allocation under the Domestic Investment
Accelerator Fund for ESG (DIAF-ESG) by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA).

Verified by To-Cert Limited, the independent verification body appointed by B Lab, the certification recognises HHI’s commitment to high standards of social and environmental performance, transparent governance, and responsible business conduct. This milestone marks a significant step in Malaysia’s industrial transition toward a purpose-driven and sustainable economy.

MIDA’s initiative in advocating ESG adoption and practices to the local industry players, particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Mid-Tier Companies (MTCs), underlines the agency’s commitment to advancing the sustainability agenda for Malaysian businesses. Through fiscal incentives, advisory services, seminars and facilitation programmes, MIDA actively supports companies in adopting low-carbon
technologies, improving resource efficiency, and building globally competitive green industries.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA, commented, “As a government agency entrusted to promote a sustainable investment ecosystem, MIDA will continue encourage companies to adopt ESG practices and support Malaysia’s net zero commitment by 2050. HHI’s B Corp certification exemplifies how innovation, social impact and sustainable manufacturing can drive the next generation of high-value green industries.”

Mr. Kian Seah, CEO of HHI, added, “This certification is not the end game but the foundation for circular trust. Every kilogram of recycled plastic now carries a story of inclusion, traceability, and verified impact. We are grateful for MIDA’s guidance, which has been invaluable in aligning our sustainability journey with Malaysia’s national industrial agenda.”

Setting a new industrial benchmark for circular transformation

HHI’s B Corp certification recognises nearly two decades of innovation in plastic recycling. The company pioneered a model that transforms post-consumer and ocean-bound plastic scrap into traceable, premium-grade recycled resins for the international markets, exporting to more than 40 countries.

HHI’s efforts translate the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) and the National Industry ESG Framework into actionable business practices that support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, while advancing Malaysia’s economic growth alongside environmental stewardship.

While Mr. Thomas Ng, the Lead of B Market Builder Southeast Asia, the regional chapter of B Lab, highlighted, “HHI is a benchmark for manufacturing companies embedding circularity and inclusion into governance. Its B Corp journey shows how industrial recyclers can lead in delivering measurable positive impact.”

Driving investor confidence in Malaysia’s circular manufacturing future

With this certification, HHI joins a global community of more than ten thousand B Corps and remains among the few heavy industry companies in Asia recognised for measurable environmental and social outcomes.

HHI will continue expanding its Asia to Europe and the United States’ circular corridor, supplying verified recycled materials and compliance documentation to global brand owners navigating new international recycled content regulations.

By converting locally collected post-consumer and ocean-bound plastic scrap into feedstock for high-quality mechanical and chemical recycling, HHI demonstrates that Malaysia can deliver impact-verified materials at global scale.

-THE END-

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA partners with investors at every stage of their journey, supporting sustainable growth and long-term value creation for Malaysia. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow MIDA on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.

About Heng Hiap Industries (HHI)
Founded in 2002 in Pasir Gudang, Johor, HHI is an integrated recycler specialising in certified recycled polypropylene and polyethene resins. Its feedstock upcycling model connects independent recycling operators, small yards, and industrial sources into a traceable circular supply chain. HHI recovers both post-consumer and ocean-bound plastic scrap by converting them into certified resins for global brand owners. The company exports to up to forty countries and collaborates with leading manufacturers to build a trusted circular economy in Asia. www.henghiap.com

About BMB SEA

B Market Builder Southeast Asia is the regional partner of the global non-profit B Lab Network, with a mission to advocate for businesses committed to balancing profit and purpose, benefitting people, planet, and communities. B Lab drives economic systems change through standards, tools, and policies that enable companies to create measurable positive impact.
https://bcorpsea.org/

For media enquiries, please contact:

MIDA
Mr. Syed Kamal Muzaffa Syed Hassan Sagaff
Director, Sustainability Division
Email: [email protected]
Tel.: +603-2267 3636

Heng Hiap Industries (HHI)
Mr. Kian Seah
CEO and Founder
Email: [email protected]

BMB SEA
Tan Ee Beng
Director
Email: [email protected]

HHI Becomes Southeast Asia’s First Integrated Mechanical and Chemical Plastic Recycler Awarded B Corp Certification


Content Type:

Duration:

HSINCHU, Taiwan / PENANG, Malaysia, 9 February 2026 – Chipbond Technology Corporation, a leading global provider of semiconductor packaging and testing services, today marked the official opening of its new advanced manufacturing facility, Chipbond Technology Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., located in Valdor Industrial Park, Batu Kawan, Penang, Malaysia. 

The establishment of the facility represents a significant milestone in Chipbond’s global expansion strategy, with a total investment of close to US$200 million (approximately RM800 million). The new plant strengthens Malaysia’s position within the global outsourced semiconductor assembly and test (OSAT) value chain, while reinforcing Malaysia’s role as a key hub for advanced semiconductor manufacturing.

Highlighting the broader impact of the project, Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), said, “This facility represents a new investment that contributes to the expansion of Malaysia’s OSAT capacity and ecosystem while further strengthening the nation’s semiconductor competitiveness. It brings deeper integration, technology transfer, and the building of local capabilities that will benefit Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem for years to come. Chipbond is bringing advanced OSAT expertise in wafer bumping and chip-scale packaging that requires highly skilled engineers. Your commitment to structured training programmes and university collaborations will equip Malaysians with the skills needed for complex, high-value semiconductor production. With companies like Chipbond anchoring advanced capabilities here, Malaysia is building an integrated semiconductor ecosystem where local talent and SMEs can participate meaningfully in global value chains.” 

Dato’ Loo Lee Lian, Chief Executive Officer of InvestPenang (representing the Right Honourable Mr. Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang), stated, “Backed by more than 50 years of industrialisation and a strong foundation in OSAT, Penang has built a mature ecosystem, a skilled talent base, and a conducive business environment. Investments such as Chipbond’s are strategic in driving Penang’s shift towards advanced packaging and innovation-led growth and aligning with the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS). We look forward to seeing strong knowledge transfer, talent upskilling, and deeper collaboration, further strengthening Penang’s position as a regional hub for advanced semiconductor packaging.”

Mr. Wu Fei Jain, Chipbond Chairman, emphasised, “This new facility represents Chipbond’s commitment in expanding our global footprint and assuring customers of stable and continuous supply. Without the supports of Malaysia government, contributions of our customers and the tireless dedications of Chipbond teams, we would not be able to achieve this challenging goal within such a compressed time frame.”

The Penang facility will offer advanced semiconductor processes, including advanced wafer bumping, wafer-level chip-scale packaging (WLCSP) and testing, with an initial capacity of 10,000 wafers and 100 million WLCSP unites per month. The plant is also equipped to support flip-chip packaging assembly and test, providing flexibility for future technology and customer requirements. Internal qualification of the facility is scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, with customer qualification commencing in the first quarter of 2026.

The establishment of Chipbond Technology Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. underscores Malaysia’s continued attractiveness to global semiconductor players and highlights the country’s growing role in supporting resilient, high-value and innovation-driven semiconductor supply chains.

-THE END-

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA partners with investors at every stage of their journey, supporting sustainable growth and long-term value creation for Malaysia. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow MIDA on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.

About InvestPenang

 InvestPenang is the Penang State Government’s principal agency for the promotion of investment. Its objectives are to develop and sustain Penang’s economy by enhancing and continuously supporting business activities in the State through foreign and local investments, including spawning viable new growth centers. To realise its objectives, InvestPenang also runs initiatives like the SMART Penang Center (providing assistance to SMEs), Penang CAT Center (for talent attraction and retention), Global Business Services (GBS) Focus Group (promoting and developing digital economy) and Penang Silicon Design @5km+ (establishing a unique and interconnected ecosystem for IC design and technology enterprises). For more information, please visit https://investpenang.gov.my/ and follow InvestPenang’s social media channels: Facebook; LinkedIn; WhatsApp Channel and TikTok.

About Chipbond Technology

Established in 1997, Chipbond is a prominent global provider of semiconductor packaging and testing services, specialising in solutions for display driver integrated circuits. The company offers a diverse portfolio of technical processing, including bumping, assembly, and compound semiconductor manufacturing for advanced wafers. Beyond their industrial capabilities, the firm maintains a strong focus on corporate governance and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, consistently ranking high in ethical management assessments. Investors can access comprehensive financial reporting and dividend data, while prospective employees are presented with information regarding career development and workplace benefits. Ultimately, this source serves as a central hub for stakeholders to explore the company’s technological innovations, commitment to sustainability, and strategic mission within the electronics supply chain.

For media enquiries, please contact:

MIDA

Mohd Mazlan Mokhtar (Mr.)
Director of Electrical & Electronics Division
T: 03- 2267 6655
Email: [email protected]

InvestPenang

Elaine Cheah / Arief Ferdaus
Communications & Business Intelligence
Tel: +604-646 8833
Email: [email protected] / [email protected] 

Chipbond Technology

Chipbond IR
Email: [email protected] 
Website: https://www.chipbond.com.tw/en

Chipbond Technology Strengthens Malaysia’s Advanced Semiconductor Ecosystem with New Penang Facility


Content Type:

Duration:

KULIM, Kedah, 5 February 2026 – Menicon Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Japan-based Menicon Co., Ltd., and a global provider of comprehensive ophthalmic solutions spanning lens materials, design and lens care products, today officially launched its new manufacturing plant at the Kulim Hi-Tech Park, reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a high-value medical device manufacturing.

With a total approved investment of RM1 billion, the new facility represents Menicon’s most advanced and future-ready manufacturing site globally. Designed around a fully integrated smart factory concept, the plant combines automated production, logistics, warehousing and quality control within a digitally connected ecosystem, enabling stable, high-volume production of silicone hydrogel contact lenses.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), said Menicon’s expansion reflects strong investor confidence in Malaysia’s industrial capabilities and talent base.

“Menicon’s smart factory investment underscores Malaysia’s growing strength in advanced, high value-added manufacturing. Beyond export growth, this project drives meaningful technology transfer, accelerates the development of high-skilled local talent, including engineers, technicians and TVET graduates, and supports Malaysia’s shift towards innovation-driven manufacturing under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030. These are precisely the investments that generate long-term economic impact and resilience for Malaysian”, he said.

Mr. Koji Kawaura, President & CEO of Menicon Co., Ltd., commented, “With the start of operations at the Malaysia Plant, we will significantly strengthen our supply capabilities to meet the rapidly growing global demand for 1-day lenses. I am confident that this will not only accelerate Menicon’s further growth in global markets but also help us fulfil our mission of protecting eye health for people around the world.” His remarks underscored the vital role the new plant will play in Menicon’s future global expansion.

The facility supports large-scale, high-efficiency production of daily disposable contact lenses and related components, leveraging Menicon’s proprietary manufacturing technologies. The Malaysia facility’s output is export-oriented, supplying key international markets including Japan, Germany and the United States, and contributing directly to Malaysia’s export earnings while strengthening its position within the global ophthalmic value chain.

Menicon Malaysia currently employs 150 personnel, with approximately 93 per cent Malaysians, and places strong emphasis on structured talent development through internship, technical training and hands-on exposure to smart manufacturing and advanced automation system. These initiatives support Malaysia’s broader human capital and TVET enhancement agenda, particularly in high-precision medical device manufacturing.

In addition to driving export, the localisation of contact lens and component manufacturing supports Malaysia’s import substitution agenda, reducing reliance overseas supply while enhancing supply chain resilience for critical medical consumables.

-END-

About MIDA 

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA partners with investors at every stage of their journey, supporting sustainable growth and long-term value creation for Malaysia. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow MIDA on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube. 

About Menicon
Since developing Japan’s first corneal contact lens in 1951, Menicon has contributed to society under its corporate slogan: “Providing better vision for a better life.” Prioritizing eye safety, we focus on R&D, advanced proprietary manufacturing technologies, and ongoing eye‑health support through the MELS Plan. Headquartered in Nagoya, we operate globally in more than 80 countries, offering comprehensive solutions ranging from lens materials and design to the production of lens care products.

 For media inquiries, please contact: 

MIDA
Ms. Azlina Hamdan
Director, Life Sciences & Medical Technology Division
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +603-2267 3791

Menicon
Contact Person

Designation
Email:
Tel:

Menicon Advances High-Value Ophthalmic Manufacturing in Malaysia With Smart Factory Launch


Content Type:

Duration:

Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia, 5 February 2026 – Nexperia successfully hosted its Global Supplier Day yesterday at its high‑volume production facility in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan. The event brought together key partners, including 40 global suppliers from around the world, to align on the company’s expansion strategy and future collaboration opportunities.

In his opening address, Nexperia CEO a.i. Stefan Tilger highlighted the crucial role suppliers play in meeting the rising global demand for semiconductors. Tilger stated, “Our suppliers play a vital role in our ability to serve customers worldwide, and we are grateful for the strong partnerships we have built together. As we navigate this period of operational disruption, our solid financial foundation and shared commitment give us full confidence in the road ahead. We look forward to continuing this journey together, built on trust, transparency, and long-term collaboration.”

Nexperia was also honoured to welcome TS Norhizam Ibrahim, Executive Director, Manufacturing Development (Non‑Resource) of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), who delivered a keynote speech addressing Malaysia’s growing strategic role in the global semiconductor ecosystem. In his remarks, TS Norhizam Ibrahim shared, “This Global Supplier Day serves as a strategic launchpad to reinforce Malaysia’s industrial resilience and build supply chains that can withstand global shocks. Our priority is to seamlessly integrate capable Malaysian companies into the global semiconductor value chain, while strengthening long-term partnerships with industry leaders such as Nexperia.”

The Global Supplier Day comes at a strategic moment for Nexperia as its Seremban site prepares for an accelerated ramp‑up of production capacity. This expansion will contribute to the company’s broader goal of strengthening geographical diversification and ensuring reliable, stable supply to customers worldwide.

Nexperia emphasised that this growth trajectory is only possible through close cooperation with its global network of suppliers. Maintaining strong partnerships remains essential for achieving the company’s ambitious expansion plans and supporting the long‑term resilience of the semiconductor industry, while also reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a strategic hub in the global semiconductor ecosystem.


1. Mr. Mohd Mazlan Mokhtar, Director of Electrical and Electronics Division (fourth from left)
2. Mr. Stefan Tilger, CEO of Nexperia B.V (fifth from left)
3. Ts. Norhizam Ibrahim, Executive Director Manufacturing Development (Non-Resource) of MIDA (sixth from left)
4. Mr. Achim Kempe, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Nexperia B.V (fifth from right)
5. Ms. Noorzita Mohamad Nor, Director of Business Services and Regional Operations Division (right)

-END-

About MIDA 

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA partners with investors at every stage of their journey, supporting sustainable growth and long-term value creation for Malaysia. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow MIDA on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube. 

About Nexperia

Headquartered in the Netherlands, Nexperia is a global semiconductor company with a rich European history and over 12,500 employees across Europe, Asia, and the United States. As a leading expert in the development and production of essential semiconductors, Nexperia’s components enable the basic functionality of virtually every commercial electronic design in the world – from automotive and industrial to mobile and consumer applications.

The company serves a global customer base, shipping more than 110 billion products annually. These products are recognized as benchmarks in efficiency – in process, size, power, and performance. Nexperia’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, sustainability, and stringent industry requirements is evident in its extensive IP portfolio, its expanding product range, and its certification to IATF 16949, ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 standards.

 For media inquiries, please contact: 

MIDA

Mr. Mohd Mazlan Mokhtar
Director, Electrical & Electronics Division
Email: [email protected]
Tel.: +603-2267 6655

Nexperia

For press information, please contact: [email protected]

Nexperia Hosts Global Supplier Day in Seremban to Strengthen Long‑Term Growth and Supply Chain Partnerships


Content Type:

Duration:

Kuala Lumpur, 30 January 2026 – Pursuant to the announcement made by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) on 29 January 2026, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) stands ready to operationalise the New Incentive Framework (NIF) from 1 March 2026, marking a shift towards an outcome-based, value-driven investment approach in Malaysia.

The framework will be applied to the manufacturing sector first, followed by the services sector in the second quarter of 2026. The NIF essentially ties tax incentives directly to measurable economic outcomes. Companies will be assessed using the National Investment Aspirations (NIA) Scorecard*, which quantifies contributions to job quality, technology transfer, supply chain resilience and sustainability.

Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, MIDA Chairman, said the framework is premised on the fundamental principle of returns on (incentive) investment by the Government. “The NIF is designed to ensure that every ringgit of foregone revenue delivers meaningful, multiplied returns to the nation’s economy. Our priority is not merely to attract investments, but to secure greater value, deeper industrial linkages, and better benefits for the Malaysian economy, SMEs and our people.”

In terms of implementation, incentive applications for manufacturing sector under the Promotion of Investments Act 1986 will still be accepted by MIDA no later than 3.00pm on 28 February 2026. All new manufacturing sector incentive applications submitted from 1 March 2026 onwards will be assessed under the NIF. Manufacturing companies with existing approvals will not be affected, and their incentives will continue under the approved terms and conditions.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, MIDA Chief Executive Officer, said, “MIDA fully supports the implementation of the NIF as it represents a major step forward in ensuring that Malaysia attracts the right type of investments—those that are high-value, innovation-driven and sustainable. By linking incentives to clear performance outcomes, the NIF strengthens investor confidence while delivering spillover benefits to the domestic economy, especially for local SMEs and Malaysian talents.”

The framework offers two mutually exclusive incentive options: a special tax rate or an investment tax allowance. Companies may choose the option that best suits their project profile and business model. 

MIDA will actively guide investors through the transition from the previous incentive regime to the NIF. The application process will be integrated into MIDA’s digital platforms, providing end-to-end processing for investors. Implementation guidelines, frequently asked questions (FAQs), covering eligibility criteria, scorecard assessment parameters and evaluation processes, are now available on MIDA’s official website and MITI’s NIF microsite.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim added, “We look forward to working closely with investors throughout this transition. MIDA remains committed to facilitating and supporting both new and existing investors, to ensure the projects approved under the NIF deliver strong national outcomes in line with the NIA.”

MIDA will also intensify engagement and outreach sessions to ensure awareness and readiness among domestic and foreign investors, particularly within the manufacturing and services sectors. This rollout will be supported through close collaboration with MITI and the Ministry of Finance.

The NIF represents Malaysia’s most significant shift in investment policy in decades. For further information and application guidance, investors may refer to the NIF Implementation Guidelines on MIDA’s official website at www.mida.gov.my.

— END —

About MIDA 

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA partners with investors at every stage of their journey, supporting sustainable growth and long-term value creation for Malaysia. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow MIDA on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.

For media enquiries:

MIDA
Ms. Yusni Md. Yusop
Director, Strategic Planning & Policy Advocacy (Manufacturing) Division
Email: [email protected]
Tel.: +603- 2267 3681

*Note:

The NIF will be assessed in alignment with six (6) pillars of the National Investment Aspirations (NIA), namely:

  • Increasing economic complexity
  • Creating high-value job opportunities
  • Strengthening domestic linkages
  • Developing new and existing clusters
  • Improving inclusivity 
  • Enhancing sustainability practices

APPENDIX: INDUSTRY RESPONSE

Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) 

Mr. Jacob Lee, President:

“The introduction of the NIF is timely as manufacturers are navigating technological transformation, supply chain reconfiguration and sustainability requirements. The outcome-based model provides greater clarity and encourages companies to upgrade, move up the value chain and invest in higher-productivity activities. FMM looks forward to continued engagement with the Government to ensure smooth implementation and practical facilitation for our members.”

Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI) 

Ms. Christina Tee, National President:

“As the voice of the international business community in Malaysia, MICCI welcomes the NIF as announced in the National Budget 2026. The new framework is a bold step toward global competitiveness. Our members, who represent a significant portion of Malaysia’s Foreign Investment (FI), value the framework’s transparency and its shift toward capability-driven growth, and we believe this performance-linked approach will provide the long-term predictability that global investors require to commit to Malaysia’s structural transformation.”

SME Association of Malaysia 

Dr. Chin Chee Seong, National President:

“The SME Association of Malaysia views the NIF as a vital mechanism for integrating our MSMEs into the global value chain. The focus on ‘Domestic Linkages’ within the NIA Scorecard is particularly encouraging, as it incentivises large foreign and local investors to deepen their collaborations with local vendors. This is a golden opportunity for Malaysian SMEs to level up their technology and ESG standards. We are committed to working with MIDA to ensure our members are ‘NIF-ready’ and can effectively support the high-impact projects that this framework aims to attract.”

MIDA Stands Ready to Implement New Outcome-Based Incentive Framework From 1 March


Content Type:

Duration:

Strategic Partnership Aims to Foster Business Growth, Innovation, and High-Value Job Creation while Strengthening Malaysia’s Digital Economy

Kuala Lumpur, 29 January 2026 – The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), in collaboration with BEYOND4, successfully hosted the Strategic Engagement Session 2026 on Malaysia’s Start-Up Ecosystem today at MIDA, Kuala Lumpur. The session brought together key stakeholders, industry leaders, and relevant Malaysian start-up ecosystem partners to explore strategies for positioning Malaysia as a leading regional hub for high-growth start-ups and innovation. 

The half-day programme aimed to foster collaboration, explore investment opportunities, and identify strategic interventions that can accelerate the development of a world-class start-up ecosystem in the country.

The session started with an Opening Address by Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim bin Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of MIDA, who highlighted the nation’s commitment to strengthening its innovation landscape and supporting high-potential technology companies. He emphasised that while MIDA has traditionally focused on investment promotion, the agency is now expanding its role as an ecosystem connector, linking start-ups, corporates, investors, research institutions, and Government agencies. 

“Start-ups are key drivers of innovation, industrial growth, and economic transformation,” said Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim. “Through initiatives such as this Strategic Engagement Session, MIDA aims to enhance start-up visibility, facilitate industry linkages, and provide structured support to help these ventures scale and access both domestic and regional markets.”

Mr. S.T. Rubaneswaran, Chief Executive Officer of BEYOND4, who also spoke at the event, highlighted the importance of integrated talent development, innovation frameworks, and partnerships in catalysing start-up growth across Malaysia.

Knowledge Sharing and High-Impact Discussions

The session also featured a Start-Up Sharing Session, where founders shared real-world experiences, highlighted the challenges and opportunities faced by early-stage ventures.

A panel discussion on Strategies to Create a World-Class Start-Up Ecosystem in Malaysia brought together leaders from:

  • Cradle Fund Sdn. Bhd.;
  • Iskandar Investment Berhad (IIB);
  • Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM); and
  • Qarbotech Sdn. Bhd.

The discussions focused on enhancing Malaysia’s attractiveness to global innovators, strengthening ecosystem connectivity, nurturing investable start-ups, and creating sustainable pathways for commercialisation and regional expansion.

Participants also explored cross-agency collaborations to support talent pipelines, technology adoption, and scaling opportunities across key sectors, reflecting MIDA’s commitment to facilitate start-up growth, foster partnerships, and integrate innovative solutions into Malaysia’s broader industrial and investment ecosystem.

In conjunction with the event, Yayasan Pahang launched the Pahang Startup Blueprint 2030, a strategic framework to strengthen the state’s start-up ecosystem, developed with contributions from MIDA and Beyond4. The initiative reflects MIDA’s collaboration with the state government and the shared commitment of key stakeholders to support innovation and sustainable ecosystem development.

The Strategic Engagement Session 2026 underscores MIDA’s role not just as the government’s principal investment promotion agency, but a proactive enabler of innovation and entrepreneurship, ensuring that Malaysia remains a competitive and attractive destination for start-ups, investors, and industry partners alike.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, MIDA CEO

MIDA-BEYOND4 Strategic Engagement Session

-END-

About MIDA

The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

About BEYOND4

 Beyond4 (B4) is dedicated to fostering and expanding ecosystems across Southeast Asia, with a focus on talent development, enterprise innovation, and startup growth. As a recognized leader in Malaysia, we have extended our presence to Singapore and established strategic partnerships in India, the United Kingdom, France, Thailand, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the Philippines.

 Our unique accelerator models are tailored to help governments and enterprises address pressing challenges through innovative solutions. These models are developed within the robust partner network of the Beyond4 ecosystem and are delivered by a specialized team of experts to ensure impactful results.

 We are at the forefront of establishing Malaysia and Southeast Asia as global hubs for innovation, growth, and entrepreneurship.

For media enquiries, please contact:

MIDA
Mr. Awangku Fiarulnazri Awang Tajudin
Head of Corporate Strategy and Revenue Management Section
Phone: +603-2267 6682
Email: [email protected]

BEYOND4
Ms. Syarifah Syaidatul Izzati
Phone: +60179339787
Email: [email protected]

MIDA and Beyond4 Convene 2026 Strategic Engagement to Strengthen Malaysia’s Start-Up Ecosystem


Content Type:

Duration:

TAIPEI CITY, Taiwan / PENANG, Malaysia, 27 January 2026 – congatec, one of the global leaders in embedded and edge computing technology, announced the establishment of its new subsidiary in Penang, Malaysia, marking a strategic expansion of its engineering and research footprint in Asia. The move signals congatec’s commitment to anchoring high-value embedded computing design, customisation and technical support capabilities in Malaysia as part of its global “local for local” strategy. 

As part of the expansion, congatec has onboarded an experienced embedded engineering team from Kontron Asia, comprising 23 specialised engineers, with plans to scale the Penang operation to approximately 70 employees over the medium term. The new subsidiary strengthens congatec’s regional research and development (R&D) and technical support capabilities, enabling faster development cycles, application-ready (aReady.) solutions and closer collaboration with customers across the Asia-Pacific market.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), said, “congatec’s expansion to establish its R&D subsidiary in Penang exemplifies Malaysia’s shift towards high-value, innovation-driven activities within our electrical and electronics ecosystem. This investment underscores the growing recognition of Malaysia as a strategic location for advanced embedded computing capabilities. By anchoring sophisticated engineering and technical support functions here, we strengthen domestic R&D capacity, accelerate technology adoption, and create meaningful career pathways for Malaysian engineering talent. Aligned with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, congatec’s expansion contributes to Malaysia’s position as a competitive hub for next-generation embedded and edge computing innovation in the region.” 

Dato’ Loo Lee Lian, Chief Executive Officer of InvestPenang (representing the Right Honourable Mr. Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang), stated, “Penang’s 50 years of industrialisation has shaped a deep and highly skilled talent base spanning engineering, design, manufacturing, and advanced technologies. This long-standing industrial maturity enables investors like congatec to scale R&D, technical support, and regional operations efficiently, supported by talent that is both globally competitive and industry-ready.” She further added, “We are confident that congatec’s presence will generate meaningful technological spillovers for Penang. The integration of “Designed in Germany” quality standards with Penang’s robust industrial ecosystem—supported by our highly skilled talent—will create strong synergies for innovation and growth.”

Dr. Dominik Ressing, CEO of congatec, stated, “The opening of our Malaysian subsidiary is a natural next step in our ‘local for local’ philosophy. Regional development and support resources enable us to respond faster and more precisely to local requirements. Our goal is to improve customers’ time-to-market, total cost of ownership, and return on investment through local engineering expertise, while reducing barriers to application development across the APAC region.”

Mr. Konrad Garhammer, Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of congatec, added, “We are delighted to welcome such an experienced and highly motivated engineering team to the congatec family. With our new location in the ‘Silicon Valley of the East,’ we gain access to an outstanding ecosystem of semiconductor manufacturers and production partners. This enables us to combine our German engineering DNA with the dynamism of the Asian market. The new team brings extensive experience in developing highly integrated embedded computing platforms, enabling us not only to expand our portfolio but also to deliver maintenance and support services within our customers’ time zones. Furthermore, we are gaining vital capabilities across production, production support, and production engineering – expertise we plan to expand further. These are decisive factors in ensuring operational excellence.”

The Penang centre will support the APAC market with standard and customised embedded computing platforms developed in alignment with congatec’s “Designed in Germany” quality standards. In addition to advanced x86-based solutions based on Intel and AMD processors, the team will develop Computer-on-Modules (COMs leveraging technologies from Qualcomm, Texas Instrument, and NXP), alongside expanded aReady. software and solution stacks. These validated platforms are designed to shorten design-in cycles, reduce non-recurring engineering costs and accelerate customers’ time-to-market.

-END-

About MIDA

The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

About InvestPenang

 InvestPenang is the Penang State Government’s principal agency for the promotion of investment. Its objectives are to develop and sustain Penang’s economy by enhancing and continuously supporting business activities in the State through foreign and local investments, including spawning viable new growth centers. To realise its objectives, InvestPenang also runs initiatives like the SMART Penang Center (providing assistance to SMEs), Penang CAT Center (for talent attraction and retention), Global Business Services (GBS) Focus Group (promoting and developing digital economy) and Penang Silicon Design @5km+ (establishing a unique and interconnected ecosystem for IC design and technology enterprises). For more information, please visit https://investpenang.gov.my/ and follow InvestPenang’s social media channels: Facebook; LinkedIn; WhatsApp Channel and TikTok.

About congatec

congatec is the leading global provider of high-performance hardware and software building blocks for embedded and edge computing solutions based on Computer-on-Modules (COMs). These advanced computer modules drive systems and devices across industries such as industrial automation, medical technology, robotics, telecommunications, and more. congatec’s high-performance aReady. ecosystems simplify and accelerate the solution development, from COM to cloud. This application-ready approach combines COMs with services and customizable technologies that enable cutting-edge advancements in system consolidation, IoT, security, and artificial intelligence. Supported by its majority shareholder, DBAG Fund VIII – a German mid-market fund focused on driving growth for industrial enterprises – congatec has the financial backing and M&A expertise to capitalize on expanding market opportunities. For more information, visit congatec.com, aReady.com, or follow us on LinkedIn and YouTube

For media enquiries, please contact:

MIDA
Mohd Mazlan Mokhtar (Mr.)
Director of Electrical & Electronics Division
T: 03- 2267 6655
E:[email protected]

InvestPenang
Elaine Cheah / Arief Ferdaus
Communications & Business Intelligence
Tel: +604-646 8833
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

congatec
Crysta Lee
Phone: +886 2 25978577
[email protected]

Press contact congatec:
Christof Wilde
Phone: +49-991-2700-2822
[email protected]

congatec Expands Penang R&D Presence, Anchoring High-Value Embedded Computing Capabilities in Malaysia


Content Type:

Duration:

Johor, Malaysia, 20 January 2026 – Rianlon, a global leader in polymer additives, officially broke ground yesterday on its R&D and Manufacturing Base in Johor, marking a significant step forward in the company’s first major integrated facility outside China.

The groundbreaking ceremony, held on the 9th anniversary of Rianlon’s public listing, was attended by Yang Amat Berhormat (YAB) Dato’ Onn Hafiz bin Ghazi, Menteri Besar of Johor, Mr. Li Haiping, Chairman and President of Rianlon, Mr. Aldo Govi, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Infineum International Limited, and representatives from various parties attended the celebration. 

The ceremony represents the realisation of Rianlon’s commitment, first announced during Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s working visit to China in September 2025. The RM1.27 billion investment will establish R&D and manufacturing base focusing on research, development, and production of anti-aging materials, lubricant materials, and bio-based materials. The facility will provide high-performance, solutions for global polymer and lubricant customers with the R&D and Phase I plant facilities slated to be completed by the first quarter of 2027.

At the ceremony, YAB Dato’ Onn Hafiz, Menteri Besar of Johor, stated that based on Johor’s clear regional advantages and superior business environment, it has attracted the attention of numerous international companies in recent years, with renowned global enterprises such as Nvidia, ByteDance, and BASF settling in Johor. The project brought by Rianlon is an innovation engine integrating R&D and manufacturing, which is expected to ignite the fire of innovation in the fields of fine chemicals and green chemistry in Johor, driving the collaborative upgrade of the entire industry chain. The Johor State Government will continue to optimise the business environment, ensure clear and transparent policies, and provide efficient administrative services to fully support the rapid delivery and efficient operation of the project.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), congratulated Rianlon Malaysia on this significant milestone in its global expansion journey. “Aligned with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, this project is set to enhance innovation in advanced materials and green chemistry capabilities, create quality jobs for Malaysians, and contribute meaningfully to sustainable and technology-driven industrial development.”

Strategic Partnership and Regional Impact

Mr. Aldo Govi, CEO of the Infineum International Limited, stated that Rianlon is an important strategic partner of Infineum. Both parties will seize the opportunity of the construction of the Rianlon Malaysia R&D and manufacturing base to strengthen deep cooperation in the lubricant value chain. They remain committed to providing superior lubrication technology, products, and fast services for the lubricant industry. The deep cooperation between the two parties will build a new paradigm, playing an active role in enhancing supply chain security and efficiency in the lubricant additive sector in China and the Asia-Pacific region.

Mr Li Haiping, Board Chairman of Rianlon Corporation, outlined the company’s development strategy and the significance of the Malaysia facility. “Malaysia is Rianlon’s first overseas R&D centre and production base, representing an important milestone in our globalisation strategy. We believe the completion and operation of this project will enhance the flexibility and security of Rianlon’s global supply chain and improve our service efficiency and innovation capabilities for global customers.”

The ceremony concluded with the distinguished guests performing the traditional soil-turning ceremony, symbolising the official start of construction.

(Ground breaking ceremony Rianlon Corporation held at Tanjung Langsat Industrial Complex, Pasir Gudang)

From Left To Right:
1. YB Tuan Hj. Azizul Bachok
2. Mr Chris Locke, Executive Vice President of Infineum International Limited
3. Mr Liu Rongxin, General Manager of Rianlon Malaysia Sdn. Bhd
4. Mr Aldo Govi, CEO of Infineum International Limited
5. Mr Li Hiping, Board Chairman of Rianlon Corporation
6. YAB Dato’ Onn Hafiz Ghazi, Menteri Besar Johor
7. YB Tuan Lee Ting Han, Chairman of The Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee
8. Tuan Mohd Masni Wakiman, District Officer of Johor Bahru
9. YB Datin Paduka Hajah Hazlina Jalil, Mayor of Pasir Gudang City Council
10. Mr Mohamad Reduan Mohd Zabri, Director of MIDA Johor
11. YB Dato’ Noorazam Bin Dato’ Osman, Mayor of Johor Bahru City Council

-END-

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channels.

About Rianlon Corporation

Founded in 2003 and listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (ChiNext: 300596), Rianlon Corporation is a global supplier of polymer anti-aging additives, including antioxidants and light stabilizers, serving plastics, rubber, coatings, fibers and adhesives. The company has expanded into lubricant additives and advanced high-performance materials, supported by multiple R&D and manufacturing bases in China and an international sales network. Driven by the mission of “Creating a Better Life through Chemistry and Biology,” Rianlon is committed to stable quality, reliable supply and fast customer response worldwide.

For media enquiries please contact:

MIDA
Ms. Siti Halimaton Mohd. Rejab
Director, Chemical and Advanced Material Division
No. Tel: +603-2267 6701
Email : [email protected]

Rianlon Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.
Mr. Wicky Law
Public Affairs Manager
Email: [email protected]

Rianlon Malaysia Breaks Ground on RM1.27 Billion R&D and Manufacturing Base in Johor


Content Type:

Duration:

SEBERANG PRAI, Penang, 19 January 2026 – Syntiant Corp., a global provider of low-power artificial intelligence (AI) solutions officially opened its new manufacturing and research and development (R&D) campus in Penang today. The expansion marks a major milestone in Syntiant’s growth in Asia and reinforcing Malaysia’s rising role as a strategic hub for the next-generation semiconductor and AI manufacturing.

The new campus more than doubles Syntiant’s footprint in Penang to approximately 220,000 square feet, increasing annual production capacity to around 1.6 billion units. The facility brings together production, engineering and AI research in one location, supports a workforce of up to 800 employees, and features advanced micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) processing, IC preparation, and test and assembly capabilities.

The ceremony was officiated by Yang Berhormat Tuan Jagdeep Singh Deo, Penang’s Deputy Chief Minister II, together with Syntiant’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Co-founder Kurt Busch.

Yang Berhormat Tuan Jagdeep Singh Deo, Deputy Chief Minister II of Penang, stated, “Backed by over five decades of industrialisation, Penang has cultivated its comprehensive ecosystem which continues to command confidence by international investors to establish presence and expand within the State. We are proud to welcome Syntiant’s new campus to Penang which will contribute to Penang’s technological expertise and further strengthening the State’s position as leading hub for advanced electronics and AI innovation, aligned with our reputation as the Silicon Valley of the East.”

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), said, “Syntiant’s expansion in Penang is a landmark investment that positions Malaysia at the forefront of next-generation AI and advanced semiconductor innovation. By anchoring high-value activities such as embodied AI and MEMS processing locally, this facility strengthens technological capabilities, drives innovation-led growth and creates quality jobs for Malaysian. It is a clear vote of confidence from global investors in Malaysia’s talent, infrastructure and ecosystem, and reinforces our mission to make the country a preferred hub for advanced electronics and high-tech manufacturing.”

Kurt Busch, CEO and Co-founder of Syntiant Corp., stated, “Our new Penang manufacturing and R&D campus represents a major step forward for Syntiant in Asia where we bring our DNA in producing faster, safer and energy-efficient solutions across consumer, industrial and enterprise markets. By combining world-class manufacturing with cutting-edge AI research, we can accelerate innovation, better serve our customers and contribute to Malaysia’s growing technology ecosystem.”

Ong Lay Pean, General Manager of Syntiant Malaysia, emphasised,“Investing in Penang reflects our confidence in Malaysia’s talent and innovation ecosystem. This new facility positions us to turn cutting-edge research into real-world solutions that benefit consumers and industries globally. With the support of MIDA and InvestPenang, Syntiant selected Penang as the ideal location to expand its manufacturing and R&D capabilities.”

Syntiant’s expansion aligns with Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan 2030, supporting high-value job creation and advanced technology development. Following its 2024 acquisition of the Knowles Consumer MEMS Microphone business, the company has strengthened its capabilities in embodied AI and intelligent sensing solutions. The company develops ultra-low-power AI solutions that integrate sensors, neural decision processors and software for IoT, consumer, automotive and industrial applications, with more than 20 billion SiSonic™ MEMS microphones shipped globally to date.

– END –

About MIDA

The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

About InvestPenang

InvestPenang is the Penang State Government’s principal agency for the promotion of investment. Its objectives are to develop and sustain Penang’s economy by enhancing and continuously supporting business activities in the State through foreign and local investments, including spawning viable new growth centers. To realise its objectives, InvestPenang also runs initiatives like the SMART Penang Center (providing assistance to SMEs), Penang CAT Center (for talent attraction and retention), Global Business Services (GBS) Focus Group (promoting and developing digital economy), and Penang Silicon Design @5km+ (establishing a unique and interconnected ecosystem for IC design and technology enterprises). For more information, please visit https://investpenang.gov.my/ and follow InvestPenang’s social media channels: Facebook; LinkedIn; WhatsApp Channel and TikTok.

About Syntiant Corp.

Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Syntiant® is Making Edge AI a Reality™ by delivering highly efficient processor, sensor, and software solutions. With more than 100 million purpose-built Neural Decision ProcessorsÔ and ML models deployed, along with billions of MEMS microphones and sensors, Syntiant’s technology is powering embodied AI applications for speech, audio, sensor and vision processing worldwide. From earbuds to automobiles, the company’s turnkey solutions enable advanced edge AI capabilities across diverse consumer and industrial use cases. More information on the company can be found by visiting www.syntiant.com or by following Syntiant on X @Syntiantcorp or LinkedIn.    

For media enquiries, please contact:

MIDA
Mohd Mazlan Mokhtar
Director, Electrical & Electronics Division
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 603-2267 6655

InvestPenang
Elaine Cheah / Arief Ferdaus
Communications & Business Intelligence
Tel: +604-646 8833
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

Syntiant Corp.
George Medici/Natalie Mu
PondelWilkinson
[email protected]/[email protected]
310.279.5980

Syntiant Launches New Manufacturing and R&D Campus in Penang, Doubling Production Capacity and Creating 800 High-Tech Jobs


Content Type:

Duration:

KEDAH, 19 JANUARY 2026 – Novolyte Technology Sdn. Bhd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Shenzhen Capchem Technology Co., Ltd., a global supplier of electronic chemicals and functional materials with over 30 years of industry experience, proudly held its groundbreaking ceremony to begin construction of its new battery electrolyte manufacturing facility at Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Kedah. The project marks a significant milestone in Malaysia’s growing advanced manufacturing ecosystem.

The ceremony was officiated by YB. Prof Dr. Haim Hilman Abdullah (Kedah EXCO for Industry & Investment, Science, Technology & Innovation, and Higher Education), Mr Zhou Youbin (Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Penang), YBhg. Dato’ Haji Elmi bin Yusoff (Yang Dipertua MPKK), Puan Surayu Susah, Executive Director of Manufacturing Development (Resource), MIDA, Tuan Zuhdi Bin Abdul Zakaria (Head of Kulim District Customs), Encik Mohd Zaid Abdul Jalil (Deputy CEO of Kulim Technology Park Corporation), Mr Zhou Dawen (Vice Chairman of Shenzhen Capchem Technology Co., Ltd.) and attended by distinguished guests including Government officials and Novolyte management and staff.

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), said “MIDA welcomes Novolyte’s investment in Kedah, a development that underscores Malaysia’s competitiveness in the advanced manufacturing sector in the region. This project aligns seamlessly with the NIMP 2030’s mission to attract sophisticated, innovation-led investments. Beyond strengthening our domestic ecosystem, Novolyte’s presence will create spill over effects for local industries and provide our local workforce with invaluable exposure to cutting-edge battery technologies.”

Puan Surayu Susah, Executive Director, Manufacturing Development (Resource), MIDA

Encik Noor Ikhsan Bin Abdul Aziz, Chief Operating Officer of Invest Kedah Berhad, stated: “Invest Kedah Berhad welcomes Novolyte Technology’s decision to expand its operations in Kedah through the establishment of this new manufacturing facility at Kulim Hi-Tech Park. This investment reflects strong investor confidence in Kedah’s industrial ecosystem and supports the state’s aspiration to strengthen the new energy and high-value manufacturing sectors. We believe this project will create quality employment opportunities, enhance local supply chain capabilities and contribute positively to Kedah’s long-term economic development”.

Mr. Zhou DaWen, Vice Chairman of Shenzhen Capchem Technology Co., Ltd., stated, “Our investment in Kedah reflects confidence in Southeast Asia’s new energy market potential. Novolyte Technology will establish a benchmark for high-end electronic chemicals in the region, addressing the local supply gap for lithium battery electrolytes and meeting global customers’ needs for localised supply chains. We are grateful for the Malaysian government’s supportive policies and believe this project will bolster the local economy and contribute to the global clean energy transition.”

Slated for commissioning in Q3 2026, the plant will have an annual capacity of around 30,000 metric tons to serve domestic and Southeast Asian markets. The facility will cultivate a high-value talent ecosystem and act as a strategic catalyst for the region’s new energy sector.

This expansion builds upon the success of Novolyte’s existing Plant 1 within Kulim Hi-Tech Park – the first among Chinese electrolyte manufacturers to achieve order delivery in Southeast Asia. The achievement marks a substantial step in Capchem’s internationalisation strategy for the region, enabling the provision of more agile, customised electrolyte solutions for customers.

(from left to right):
YBhg Dato’ Haji Elmi bin Yusoff, Yang Dipertua MPKK; Mr Zhou Youbin, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Penang; YB Prof. Dr. Haim Hilman Abdullah, Kedah EXCO for Industry and Investment, Science, Technology and Innovation, and Higher Education; Mr Zhou Dawen, Vice Chairman of Shenzhen Capchem Technology Co., Ltd.; Encik Mohd Zaid Abdul Jalil, Deputy CEO of Kulim Technology Park Corporation; and Puan Surayu Susah, Executive Director of Manufacturing Development (Resource).

-END-

About MIDA

Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

About Invest Kedah 

Invest Kedah Berhad (IKB) is the official investment promotion agency for the State of Kedah, responsible for attracting and facilitating strategic domestic and international investments.

IKB aims to ensure that all investments contribute positively to the state’s economic development and the well-being of its people. Through an investor-friendly approach and strong cooperation with federal and local government agencies, IKB is committed to making Kedah a premier investment destination in northern Malaysia.

About Capchem

Shenzhen Capchem Technology Co., Ltd. (“Capchem”), the ultimate holding company of Novolyte Technology Sdn. Bhd., was founded in 1996 and listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (stock code: 300037) in 2010, with its headquarters in Shenzhen, China. Since establishment, Capchem is committed to creating a better future with electronic chemicals and functional materials.

Capchem is committed to becoming a leading global enterprise specialised in electronic chemicals and functional materials, guided by its core value of “Innovation for Application, Progress with Integrity” and the STEP business philosophy (Solid, Thorough, Excellent, Professional).

Its main products include battery chemicals, organic fluorine chemicals, capacitor chemicals and electronic chemicals, which are used in the fields such as new energy vehicles, consumer electronics, urban rail transit, biomedicine, digital infrastructure, photovoltaics and industry manufacturing.

Media Contacts

MIDA

Ms. Siti Halimaton Mohd. Rejab
Director, Chemical and Advanced Material Division
Email: [email protected]
Tel.: +603-2267 6701


Invest Kedah Berhad

Corporate Communication Department
Email: [email protected]
Tel.: +604-702 7373

Shenzhen Capchem Technology Co., Ltd.

Operation Management Department
Email: [email protected]
Tel: +86-(0)755-8992 3768

Novolyte Technology Sdn. Bhd. Holds Groundbreaking Ceremony for Its New Manufacturing Facility in Kedah, Malaysia


Content Type:

Duration:


Calls for Stronger Media Collaboration to Bridge Domestic Investment Perception Gap

KUALA LUMPUR, 13 January 2026 – The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)
today hosted its first major engagement of the year, the Media Appreciation High-Tea & Networking Session, themed “Strengthening Partnerships for Investment Success.” Held at the Aloft Hotel, Kuala Lumpur Sentral, the event brought together close to 60 media representatives, including senior editors, bureau chiefs, and journalists from major news organisations, to align on Malaysia’s investment narrative and priorities for 2026.

The session served as a strategic curtain raiser for the year, featuring an address by MIDA Chairman, YM Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Abdul Aziz, and MIDA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid. Renowned economist Dr. Anthony Dass provided key economic context through his briefing on the 2026 investment outlook, highlighting increasingly capital selectivity and intensified regional competition in a year projected to see flat global capital flows of USD 1.5 trillion.

Reframing the Narrative: Mobilising Domestic Investment

MIDA Chairman, YM Tengku Zafrul, emphasised that 2026 must be about the conversion of investment approvals into productive capacity and tangible benefits for Malaysian families. He highlighted that in the first nine months of 2025, 55% of approved investments were driven by domestic investors, yet a significant “perception gap” remains where many local SMEs are not fully aware of the range of facilities and support available across the Government, including those provided by MIDA.

“Approvals alone do not build industries. What matters is how those approvals translate into real projects, quality jobs and stronger local supply chains,” stated YM Tengku Zafrul. “Supporting the SMEs, who form a large part of Malaysia’s middle class means expanding opportunity, and that begins by ensuring Malaysian businesses know how to access MIDA’s holistic support that they can benefit from.”

Strategic Priorities for 2026

To support this shift, MIDA outlined a suite of initiatives aimed at making investment facilitation more seamless, ecosystem-driven, and outcome-focused:

  • Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre (IMFC): Since its establishment in December 2023, IMFC has facilitated over 45,000 issues. In 2025 alone, over 27,000 issues were resolved—a 60% year-on-year increase—with 1,631 projects (81.9%) successfully implemented. The IMFC model will be expanded to Penang and Sarawak.
  • New Incentive Framework (NIF): A transition from volume-based incentives to outcome-driven investments, with emphasis on technology upgrading, automation, decarbonisation, and workforce development. Implementation will be phased, beginning with the manufacturing sector in Q1 2026, followed by the services sector in Q2 2026.
  • #InvestLokal Initiative: A communication campaign repositioning MIDA as a partner to domestic investors and the rakyat, featuring relatable stories of local business expansion, upgrading and success.
  • Regional Flagship Programmes: MIDA is intensifying engagement with State Governments through targeted, ecosystem-based promotion across all regions—Northern, East Coast, Southern, Sabah, Sarawak, and Central—to connect companies with anchor investors and new market opportunities.
  • Investment Coordination Platform (ICP): A facilitation platform helping Malaysian companies bridge financing gaps, raise capital, pursue mergers and acquisitions, and prepare for initial public offerings (IPOs). To date, MIDA’s ICP has engaged more than 80 companies on a one-to-one basis.
  • One-Stop Portal (OSP): MIDA is developing a One-Stop Portal to unify all government stakeholders on a single digital platform, enabling parallel approvals across federal and state agencies to address investor pain points.


A People-Centric Investment Narrative

“The media are not just channels of communication; you are our partners in nation-building. As we strengthen our focus on domestic investment and investor facilitation in 2026, your role in shaping an informed and confident business community becomes even more critical,” said Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim, CEO of MIDA.

Invoking Malay wisdom—”Khabar angin membawa rebah, khabar benar membawa teguh” (Rumours bring collapse, truth brings strength)—YM Tengku Zafrul called on media to collaborate by asking “the domestic angle” when covering major foreign investments and highlighting Malaysian SME success stories alongside headline numbers.

By strengthening data access, sharing local success stories, and deepening engagement with newsrooms, MIDA aims to ensure that Malaysia’s investment narrative in 2026 is not only competitive and policy-driven, but also inclusive, relatable, and people-centric, reflecting the vital role of domestic capital mobilisation in shaping the nation’s economic future.

-END-

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channels.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Ms. Fatmah Ahmad
Director, Corporate Communications Division
Email: [email protected]
Tel.: +603- 2263 2428

MIDA Reinforces Its Outcome-Driven Investment Focus in 2026


Content Type:

Duration:

Minister Johari and Deputy Minister Sim Emphasis Execution in First MIDA Visit

24 December 2025, Kuala Lumpur – Shortly after their appointments, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, YB Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Deputy Minister YB Tuan Sim Tze Tzin made their inaugural visit to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) headquarters in Kuala Lumpur Sentral yesterday, underscoring the new leadership’s emphasis on execution and delivery.

The visit focused on strengthening investment delivery through data-driven decision-making, and tangible economic outcomes that benefit the rakyat.

From left to right:
Puan Masni Muhammad, Acting Senior Executive Director Investment Policy Advocacy of MIDA
Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil, Deputy Secretary General (Investment & Management) of MITI
Dato’ Hairil Yahri Yaacob, Secretary General of MITI
YB Tuan Sim Tze Tzin, Deputy Minister of MITI
YB Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Minister of MITI
Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA
Puan Zalina Zainol, Deputy CEO (Investment Promotion and Facilitation) of MIDA
Puan Zuaida Abdullah, Deputy CEO (Investment Development) as well as Acting for Executive Director, Services Development of MIDA

From Approvals to Impact

The leadership of YB Datuk Seri Johari and YB Tuan Sim Tze Tzin brings together corporate experience and execution capability in advancing Malaysia’s investment agenda.

YB Datuk Seri Johari, armed with more than 25 years of experience navigating corporate restructurings, including during the 1997-98 financial crisis, champions investor-friendly policies grounded in business realities. YB Tuan Sim, a civil engineer from San Jose State University, brings technical discipline and implementation rigour to policy execution.

“MIDA is central to Malaysia’s future investment and industrial strategy,” YB Datuk Seri Johari said. “We must move beyond headline investment approvals towards an outcome-focused approach that delivers tangible economic impact, including job creation, contributions to national income, exports, localisation, and supply-chain spillovers. This approach reinforces the importance of measuring investment success through real economic outcomes.”

Converting Pipeline to Reality

The visit focused on actionable priorities to accelerate the conversion of MIDA’s investment pipeline into realised investments, with emphasis on the following:

1. Outcome-Based Incentives

        Malaysia’s New Investment Incentive Framework (NIIF) will tie tax benefits to actual achievement, with incentives realised only upon the delivery of commitments, ensuring accountability and maximising returns to the nation.

        2. Data-Driven Decision Making

        MIDA will enhance data reporting to track key indicators, including foreign versus domestic investments, approved versus implemented projects, employment impact, exports, and economic spillovers, enabling more informed policymaking and better allocation of national resources.

        3. Ecosystem Building

        Strengthening linkages between anchor investors and local SMEs will deepen supply-chain integration, facilitate technology transfer and build domestic capabilities.

        4. Streamlined Execution

        Efforts to streamline approval and facilitation processes will continue for strategic sectors such as semiconductors, electric vehicles, AI, and advanced manufacturing, aligned with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 to support investment promotion.

        Backing MIDA’s Transformation

        The leadership expressed strong support for MIDA’s ongoing transformation, particularly the One-Stop Portal (OSP), which aimed at improving coordination across government stakeholders.  The OSP is expected to provide investors with a clearer and more predictable facilitation experience.

        The leadership also called for closer engagement with State Governments through targeted roadshows and outreach to ensure consistent implementation of investment policies on the ground.

        A Leadership Built for Geopolitical Shifts

        YM Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Aziz, in welcoming YB Datuk Seri Johari Ghani, said, “MIDA’s alignment with the new MITI Ministerial leadership gives Malaysia the momentum we need to turn ambition into impact. With clear direction and a shared commitment to execution, MIDA will help ensure every realised investment strengthens our people, our industries, and our future. The world is shifting fast — and MIDA is ready to rise to the moment to support Malaysia’s investment and economic ambitions.

        MIDA Chief Executive Officer Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim welcomed the alignment: “The combined corporate insight and technical expertise of Datuk Seri Johari and YB Tuan Sim together with YM Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz’s experience in championing high-impact investment frameworks, will strengthen our momentum into 2026 and beyond. Through close coordination between MITI and MIDA, Malaysia is well-positioned to further enhance its standing as a destination for both global and domestic investors.”

        Looking Ahead

        As global supply chains continue to evolve and Southeast Asia emerges as a key manufacturing and services hub, Malaysia is positioning itself to remain competitive and reliable.

        The partnership between YB Datuk Seri Johari and YB Tuan Sim reflects a shared commitment to execution and practical policy-making, as Malaysia leverages its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025 heading into 2026.

        For investors, the message is clear: Malaysia remains focused on delivery, outcomes, and long-term value creation.

        –ENDS–

        About MIDA

        MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 21 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.

        For media enquiries, please contact:

        Puan Fatmah Ahmad
        Corporate Communications Division, MIDA
        T: 03-22632428
        E: [email protected]

        New MITI Leadership Charts Malaysia’s Path Towards Outcome-Driven Investment Growth


        Content Type:

        Duration:

        Negeri Sembilan, 12 December 2025 – Exis Tech Sdn. Bhd., a semiconductor equipment manufacturer and subsidiary of Hangzhou Changchuan Technology Co. Ltd. (CCTECH), has commenced operations at its second manufacturing facility in Senawang, Negeri Sembilan, marking a significant expansion of its manufacturing footprint in Malaysia.

        The Phase 1 facility represents an investment of approximately RM25 million and effectively doubles the company’s existing production floor space.  Phase 2 expansion is scheduled to begin in early 2026 and be completed by late 2027, with additional investment of more than RM100 million. Upon full completion, the expanded site will be six times larger than Phase 1 and is projected to create 600 to 800 new skilled jobs over the next two to five years, alongside 50 new personnel to strengthen the group’s global customer service network.

        The Phase 1 opening was officiated by YB Tuan Teo Kok Seong, Negeri Sembilan State Assemblyman and Chairman of the State Action Committee for Industrialisation. Also present were dignitaries from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, representatives from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), as well as customers and industry partners.

        Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer, MIDA, stated, “Exis Tech’s expansion strengthens Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem and reinforces our role in the global value chain. The establishment of advanced IC equipment and chip-testing operations in Negeri Sembilan enhances our national industrial capabilities and supports import substitution in critical technologies.”

        “Most importantly, this investment delivers real impact to the rakyat through the creation of high-quality jobs, accelerated skills development, and the strengthening of our national semiconductor talent pool. Aligned with the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS) and NIMP 2030, MIDA will continue to work closely with Exis Tech and CCTECH to scale innovation, deepen local capabilities, and position Malaysia as a preferred regional hub for semiconductor manufacturing,” he added.

        Mr. Zhao Yi, Chairman of CCTECH, said, “The opening of this new Phase 1 facility marks a new chapter in our group’s global expansion, as we seek to become a world-class provider of integrated circuit equipment and chip-testing system solutions. The group’s decision to invest in Malaysia is a testament to the country’s progressive policies focusing on the semiconductor industry and also the abundance of highly skilled workforce. As semiconductor technology continues to evolve, the associated manufacturing challenges have grown even more complex, requiring new methods, materials and machinery. CCTECH is committing half its 5,000-strong global workforce to research and development efforts, in order to overcome these challenges and provide our customers with the most cost-effective solutions.”

        “We are very excited to witness the launch of Phase 1 and we look forward to bringing even more products and manufacturing expertise to Malaysia. We hope this will spur greater innovation and propel CCTECH to even greater heights in the near future,” he added.

        With the new facility, Exis Tech will serve as CCTECH Group’s principal manufacturing and export base for markets outside of China. The expansion will broaden its local production portfolio, including the integration of Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) machines from fellow CCTECH subsidiary, Singapore Technologies and Instruments Co. Ltd. (STI), further positioning Malaysia as a key node in the group’s global manufacturing and export strategy.

        From left to right-
        YBhg, Dato’ Haji Najmuddin Sharif bin Sarimon (CEO, INVEST NS), Mr. Lee Heng Lee (CEO, Exis Tech), Ms. Xu Xin (Director, CCTECH), YB Tuan Teo Kok Seong (Chairman, State Action Committee for Industrialisation), Mr. Zhao Yi (Chairman, CCTECH), Mr. Sun Shuqiang (Minister Counsellor – Commercial Affairs, China Embassy), Dato’ Seri Wong Siew Hai (President, Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association) and En. Azizul Hakim bin Abu Haniffa (Director, MIDA N. Sembilan).

        *** THE END ***

        About MIDA

        The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 21 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

        About Exis Tech Sdn. Bhd.

        Exis Tech Sdn. Bhd. was established in 2002 and is a subsidiary of the CCTECH Group. The company specializes in the design, assembly, and customer support of back-end Automated Test Equipment (ATE) handlers for the semiconductor industry, serving clients worldwide.

        For media enquiries, please visit www.exis-tech.com for contact details.

        For media enquiries, please contact:

        MIDA
        Zakiah Sajidan
        Director, Machinery & Metal Technology Division
        Email: [email protected]
        Phone: 603-2267 6769

        Exis Tech Sdn. Bhd.
        Lee Heng Lee
        CEO,
        Tel: +6012-3223544
        Email: [email protected]

        Simon Tan Keng Sim
        CIO,
        Tel: +012-2757420
        Email: [email protected]

        Exis Tech Sdn. Bhd. Opens Its Newest Production Facility in Negeri Sembilan


        Content Type:

        Duration:

        Negeri Sembilan, 10 December 2025 – OTAFUKU SAUCE MALAYSIA SDN. BHD., a joint venture between Japan’s Otafuku Sauce Co., Ltd. (Japan) and Sushi King Holdings Sdn. Bhd., today celebrated the grand opening of its newly constructed halal-certified office and factory in Sendayan TechValley, Negeri Sembilan. The facility, which commenced operations in July 2025 marks a significant expansion in the company’s capacity to serve Malaysia’s growing appetite for Japanese cuisine and export markets across Asia, the Middle East and Europe.

        The opening ceremony brought together industry leaders and government officials for a ribbon-cutting, facility tour and culinary showcase featuring halal-certified seasonings produced on-site. Distinguished guests witnessed live teppanyaki demonstrations of Okonomiyaki and Sushi preparation, highlighting the versatility of products manufactured at the JAKIM-accredited facility. 

        Company Background and Expansion

        Established in April 2016 in Selangor, Otafuku Sauce Malaysia aims to manufacture and distribute halal-compliant seasonings, such as Okonomi Sauce, while promoting Japanese cuisine to contribute to the culinary culture of Muslim markets. With the growing popularity of Japanese cuisine, production volumes have steadily increased. To meet rising demand and strengthen production capacity, the company invested RM50 million to construct and expand its new factory. Equipped with semi-automatic filling systems and small-pack filling machines, the new halal-certified facility offers a production capacity approximately eight times greater than the previous plant.

        YBhg. Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), stated, “We are delighted to welcome Otafuku Sauce Malaysia’s additional RM50 million investment into this new state-of-the-art facility in Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan, a decision that powerfully affirms Malaysia’s role as the central hub for the global Halal industry. This project perfectly aligns with our national agenda to attract high-value, quality investments, showcasing how a renowned Japanese company can leverage Malaysia’s rigorous Halal ecosystem to serve both its 85% Malaysian sales and expanding export markets. This commitment to authentic Japanese culinary culture also brings valuable food technology know-how to Malaysia and further deepens the longstanding partnership between our two nations.”

        Currently, Otafuku Sauce Malaysia manufactures over 100 halal-compliant products, including Okonomi Sauce, spicy seasonings such as Kimchi Sauce, soy-sauce based seasonings like Teriyaki Sauce, and vinegar products such as Sushi Rice Seasoning.

        The product portfolio comprises 40% NB (our own brand) and 60% ODM (contract manufacturing). In addition to teppanyaki-style dishes, they also provide menu solutions for sushi, ramen, and other diverse dining formats.

        To ensure halal compliance, the company exclusively use halal-certified raw materials and employs innovative approaches in product development. For example, their globally popular Okonomi Sauce combines multiple seafood-based ingredients to replicate the savoury taste typically derived from meat, ensuring a universally enjoyable flavour.

        Future Outlook

        Approximately 85% of Otafuku Sauce Malaysia’s sales come from the Malaysian market, with exports to Indonesia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, the UAE, Japan, and other markets. Indonesia remains a key growth market. The company plans to further expand its presence into the Middle East and Europe through participation in trade exhibitions and leveraging e-commerce platforms.

        Mr. Naoyoshi Sasaki, President of Otafuku Holdings Co., Ltd., stated, “Otafuku Sauce Malaysia will continue to produce a diverse range of halal seasonings under stringent quality control, utilising the expertise and recipes cultivated over decades as a Japanese seasoning manufacturer. As the Southeast Asia hub of the Otafuku Group, we aim to deliver safe and reliable halal products to Muslim markets and beyond, while promoting the appeal of Japanese cuisine such as Okonomiyaki to dining tables worldwide.”

        Otafuku Sauce Malaysia also actively engage directly with customers through live demonstrations at stores and events, tasting sessions, and recipe-sharing via social media, further strengthening appreciation for Japanese cuisine in Malaysia.

        Moving forward, the company will continue incorporating consumer feedback into product development, including exploring flavours that complement Malaysian culinary culture.

        From left to right-
        Mr. Seito Kono, Managing Director, Otafuku Sauce Malaysia Sdn. BHD.;  Dr. Yuma Konishi,  President & Group CEO of Texchem Resources Berhad.;  Tan Sri Dato’ Seri (Dr) Fumihiko Konishi,  Executive Chairman & Founder of Texchem Group;  His Excellency Shikata Noriyuki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Malaysia; Ms. Surayu Susah, Executive Director of Manufacturing Development (Resource);  Mr. Naoyoshi Sasaki, President of Otafuku Holdings Co., Ltd. and Mr. Takatomi Sasaki, President & CEO Okonomiyaki Instructor, Otafuku Sauce Co., Ltd.

        *** THE END ***

        About MIDA

        The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 21 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

        About Otafuku Sauce Co., Ltd.

        Otafuku Sauce Co., Ltd. was founded in Hiroshima in 1922, began producing vinegar in 1938, and started manufacturing Worcestershire sauce in 1950. In 1952, as Okonomiyaki became popular, we developed Okonomi Sauce specifically for this dish. Today, we manufacture and sell Okonomi Sauce, vinegar, and various seasonings, promoting the deliciousness of Okonomiyaki and Japanese food culture worldwide. Otafuku Sauce Malaysia is the only halal-certified seasoning factory within the Otafuku Group, joining our overseas factories in Los Angeles (Otafuku Foods, Inc., USA) and Qingdao (Daitafuku Foods Qingdao Co., Ltd., China).

        For media enquiries, please contact:

        MIDA
        Ms. Wan Hariati Wan Salleh
        Director,
        Food Technology & Resource Based Industries Division
        Tel: +603-2267 6701
        Email: [email protected]

        Otafuku Sauce Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
        Mr. Yap Swee Huat
        General Manager,
        Tel: +606-775 3288
        Email: [email protected]

        Otafuku Sauce Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. Grand Opening Ceremony of The New Halal-Certified Factory Sendayan Techvalley, Negeri Sembilan


        Content Type:

        Duration:

        KUALA LUMPUR, 3 December 2025 – Following the announcement by the Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim today, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) welcomes the appointment of Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz as its new Chairman, effective 3 December 2025. The appointment represents a strategic move to strengthen Malaysia’s investment promotion and development capabilities during a period of heightened global economic competition.

        Tengku Zafrul brings exceptional credentials to MIDA, combining deep expertise and experiences in both financial services and government policy. Most recently, he served as the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry for three years (from 3 December 2022 to 2 December 2025), where he successfully navigated Malaysia through complex trade negotiations, geopolitical tensions and positioned the nation as a preferred investment destination amidst global economic uncertainties and supply chain realignment.

        During his tenure as the MITI Minister, Tengku Zafrul delivered a historic investment performance for Malaysia. The country secured RM329.5 billion in approved investments in 2023, followed by a record-breaking RM378.5 billion in 2024—the highest in the nation’s history. This momentum continued into 2025, with Malaysia attracting RM285.2 billion in approved investments in the first nine months alone, marking a 13.2% year-on-year increase despite global economic headwinds.

        He spearheaded the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, championed the National Semiconductor Strategy, the Green Investment Strategy, the Chemical Industry Roadmap, the ESG Industry Framework and the Circular Economy Policy Framework positioned Malaysia strategically within ASEAN economic integration frameworks, and successfully concluded the Malaysia – US Reciprocal Trade Agreement that protects Malaysian market access.

        During Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN chairmanship, MITI under his leadership, pushed through 18 Priority Economic Deliverables aimed at deepening regional integration in emerging sectors such as electric vehicles and artificial intelligence. The frameworks lay essential groundwork for capturing durable competitive advantages as ASEAN economies integrate further in high-growth sectors.

        Notably, his connection to MIDA predates his ministerial roles. During his tenure as Group Chief Executive Officer of CIMB Group Holdings Bhd (2014-2020), one of ASEAN’s largest financial institutions, he served as a Board Member of MIDA (July 2012 to 2018), gaining insights into Malaysia’s investment promotion landscape and industrial development. This earlier involvement positions him uniquely to lead the authority, bringing both institutional knowledge and fresh strategic direction.

        MIDA Chief Executive Officer Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said, “Under Tengku Zafrul’s stewardship at MITI, Malaysia achieved record investment approvals and significantly improved our project implementation rates. His appointment as MIDA Chairman ensures continuity in our strategic direction while bringing fresh impetus to our operational priorities. We are confident that his leadership will further enhance Malaysia’s standing as a premier investment hub.”

        Tengku Zafrul’s academic background includes a BSc (Honours) in Economics and Accounting from the University of Bristol, a MSc from the University of Exeter, and an Executive MBA from Tsinghua University’s People’s Bank of China School of Finance. He is a Fellow Chartered Banker with the Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers.

        MIDA, established in 1967, remains Malaysia’s principal investment promotion agency, facilitating investments across manufacturing and services sectors. Under Tengku Zafrul’s chairmanship, the authority will continue its mandate to position Malaysia as a competitive, sustainable, and strategically located investment destination for global investors.

        –ENDS–

        About MIDA

        MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 21 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.

        For media enquiries, please contact:

        Puan Fatmah Ahmad
        Corporate Communications Division, MIDA
        T: 03-22632428
        E: [email protected]

        Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz Appointed as Chairman of MIDA


        Content Type:

        Duration:

        KULIM HI-TECH PARK, KEDAH, 27 NOVEMBER 2025 – MFMY Sdn. Bhd., a subsidiary of MFSG and leading provider of semiconductor Automated Material Handling System (AMHS) solutions, has established its presence in Malaysia with the official opening of its new manufacturing and service centre. Located at the KHTP SME Park in  Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP), Kedah, the nearly 2,000 square meter facility is MFSG’s first integrated manufacturing and service hub in Southeast Asia and is equipped for full global delivery.

        The launch ceremony was attended by senior representatives from the Malaysian government, key semiconductor clients, industry associations such as SEMI, local supply chain partners, and the executive team from MFMY’s parent company,MeetFuture Technology, as well as colleagues from MFSG and MFMY—together witnessing a pivotal milestone in the company’s global expansion.

        Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), remarked, “MFMY Sdn. Bhd.’s integrated hub in Kulim Hi-Tech Park strongly endorses Malaysia’s strategic push toward high-value, high-technology manufacturing. This investment aligns seamlessly with the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, which aims to build a more sophisticated, resilient, and technologically advanced economy. As Malaysia advances its National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS), the Machinery and Equipment (M&E) sector—particularly in Automated Material Handling Systems (AMHS) plays a pivotal role. Companies like MFMY, are essential enablers of the future semiconductor ecosystem, providing the automation and critical infrastructure necessary for our world-leading wafer fabs and packaging giants to maintain global competitiveness and move up the value chain.”

        In the officiating remarks, Puan Sunita Binti Abdul Aziz, YDP PBT TPHTK, stated, “The establishment of MFMY Sdn. Bhd. within Kulim Hi-Tech Park reflects the strong confidence that investors have in Kulim as a strategic industrial hub. We look forward to seeing MFMY grow, innovate, and contribute to the district’s economic progress. The local authority remains committed to facilitating an ecosystem that supports industrial excellence and sustainable development.”

        Dato’ Haji Mohd Sahil Zabidi, Group CEO of Kulim Technology Park Corporation (KTPC), stated;

        “MFMY’s presence in KHTP is aligned with our mission to nurture high-value industries and empower SMEs to scale alongside global players. We believe this new facility will strengthen MFMY’s operational readiness and open new opportunities for collaboration within the KHTP ecosystem. KTPC is proud to support their journey and will continue enabling an environment where companies can thrive.”

        “This base marks a critical node in MeetFuture Technology’s global AMHS network,” said Mr. Tee Keng Teck, President of MeetFuture Malaysia, during the ceremony. “With over 50 wafer fab clients worldwide, the launch will significantly shorten our overseas delivery cycles and enhance service responsiveness, providing more efficient and reliable localized support to our global partners. We are grateful for the trust of the Malaysian government and the strong backing from our group headquarters. Moving forward, we are committed to deepening local operations and growing together with our partners in the region.”

        Mr. Miao Feng (Ricky), Group Chairman of MeetFuture Technologies, stated, “Malaysia brings together world-leading chip manufacturers, packaging giants, and a vibrant, collaborative supply chain supported by proactive government policy and organizations like SEMI. This dynamic ecosystem is precisely why we chose Kulim, Kedah for our global manufacturing hub. The launch here is a key step in our strategy to connect Southeast Asia with Europe and serve the global market.”

        Looking ahead, Mr. Miao emphasised that the Kedah facility will become the launchpad for an expanded international footprint, providing advanced, intelligent, and sustainable AMHS solutions to customers around the world.

        Ms. Ke Na(kona), Vice President of MeetFuture Technology, added, “MeetFuture will respect local cultures and uphold compliance, focusing on employee development and local industry integration. By investing in talent, sustainability, and partnership, we aim to drive not only our own growth but also the ongoing advancement of the Southeast Asian semiconductor ecosystem, creating a win-win future with Malaysia.”

        The opening of MFMY’s facility comes as Malaysia’s Machinery and Equipment industry continues to attract strong investment interest. For the first nine months of 2025, the industry recorded RM6.4 billion in approved investments, underscoring its critical role in supporting Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem and advanced manufacturing capabilities.

        From left to right:
        Dato’ Mohd Sahil Zabidi, Group CEO KTPC; Mr Tee Keng Teck, Vice President MFMY Sdn Bhd; Mr Ricky Miao, Group Chairman MeetFuture Technology; Pn Sunita Abdul Aziz, President PBT TPHTK; Ms. Kona Ke, Group Vice Chairman MeetFuture Technology; Ms. Linda, President SEMI SEA; Mr. Ang, Executive Director SSIA

        Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, MIDA CEO

        -ENDS-

        About MIDA

        MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 21 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube.

        About MFMY

        MFMY, located in Kulim Hi-Tech Park, Malaysia, is MeetFuture’s first global manufacturing and service center, covering nearly 2,000 square meters and commencing operations in November 2025. MFMY’s launch will enhance the flexibility and resilience of MeetFuture’s global AMHS supply chain, reaffirming our commitment to delivering stable and reliable solutions to clients worldwide, and strengthening our position as a trusted partner in the semiconductor manufacturing industry.

        About MFSG Pte. Ltd.

        As the hub of MeetFuture’s global market operations, MFSG is based in Singapore, with a core team drawn from leading overseas wafer fabs, each with over 20 years of AMHS technical expertise. This enables deep insights into semiconductor manufacturers’ needs and challenges. Working closely with MeetFuture’s R&D teams in China, MFSG customizes AMHS solutions for global front-end fabs, advanced packaging facilities, and back-end test and assembly plants, establishing long-term partnerships based on trust and shared success.

        About KTPC

        Kulim Technology Park Corporation Sdn. Bhd. (KTPC) is the developer and manager of Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP), Malaysia’s first high-tech industrial park. Established since 1996, KTPC’s primary activities include developing and promoting KHTP, as well as building, leasing and renting industrial and non-industrial buildings. KHTP is recognized as a leading global science city, attracting numerous high-tech multinational companies. KHTP is strategically positioned with excellent infrastructure, logistics connectivity, and support services, making it an ideal location for both local and international businesses.

        For media enquiries, please contact:

        MIDA
        Ms. Zakiah Sajidan
        Director of Machinery and Metal Technology Division, MIDA
        T: +603-2267 6769
        E: [email protected]

        KTPC
        Ms. Siti Norsakeena Mohd Arshad
        Head of Corporate Communication
        Tel: +604-403 2420 ext 134
        Email: [email protected]

        MFMY Sdn. Bhd. Launches First Integrated Manufacturing and Services Hub in Southeast Asia


        Content Type:

        Duration:

        PULAU PINANG, Malaysia, 25 November 2025 – Polyplas Sdn. Bhd., a Malaysian-owned precision injection moulding manufacturer and key subsidiary of Ge-Shen Corporation Berhad, is strengthening its strategic presence in Malaysia’s manufacturing landscape with the establishment of a new high-technology plant in Penang, launched on 21 November 2025.

        Supported by a committed investment comprising of RM24 million for the new manufacturing facility and RM50 million for advanced machinery and automation, the expansion reflects the company’s continued commitment to strengthening its technologically sophisticated and high-value production activities. The enhanced capabilities are expected to elevate operational efficiency, accelerate Industry 4.0 adoption and reinforce Malaysia’s overall competitiveness in innovation-driven manufacturing. 

        From left to right-1. Mr.Malveen , Operation Director Polyplas Sdn. Bhd 2. Mr. Muhammad Ghaddaffi, Director (MIDA) 3. Mr Brandon Tham, Operation Director Ge- Shen Corporation Berhad 4. Ms. Siti Norbaya, Director (MITI) 5. Mr. Teoh Chee Wooi, Managing Director Polyplas Sdn. Bhd

        Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), emphasised the significance of the project to Malaysia’s industrial development agenda, “MIDA wholeheartedly welcomes Polyplas’s latest expansion, which stands as a strong testament to a homegrown manufacturer advancing up the value chain. Through our strategic investment facilitation, regulatory coordination, and ongoing advisory support, MIDA is proud to champion local champions like Polyplas in their transformation towards high-value, technology-intensive operations. By deepening its specialisation in high-quality plastic components for critical sectors such as industrial products, med-tech products, and consumer goods, Polyplas is contributing meaningfully to Malaysia’s economic complexity.”

        “This investment exemplifies the outcome-based, technology-driven growth central to the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 agenda, anchored on advanced manufacturing, high-value job creation, and stronger innovation capacity. The commitment to creating skilled employment opportunities and nurturing local talent through structured training and university collaborations directly supports our national priority of developing a future-ready workforce. Polyplas’s sustained focus on technological adoption, automation, and Industry 4.0 integration further reinforces Malaysia’s position as a globally competitive, innovation-led industrial nation. We are confident that this expansion will inspire more Malaysian companies to embrace innovation and scale up their capabilities to meet the demands of tomorrow’s economy,” he added.

        Mr. Andrew Teoh, Managing Director of Polyplas Sdn. Bhd., expressed, “We are delighted to announce the official opening of our new manufacturing facility, marking a significant milestone in our growth journey and reaffirming our commitment to delivering excellence to our customers. This new factory represents not only a significant investment in advanced technology and production capability, but also in our people, our community, and the future of our industry. Equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and sustainable production systems, this facility will enhance our operational efficiency, increase capacity, and support our expansion into new markets. More importantly, it reinforces our dedication to delivering high-quality products while maintaining responsible and environmentally friendly manufacturing practices. The opening of this new factory also brings exciting opportunities for the local workforce.”

        “We are committed to creating meaningful jobs, nurturing talent, and contributing positively to the community we now proudly call home. This milestone would not have been possible without the trust of our customers, the support of our partners, and the hard work of our entire team. Together, we look forward to driving innovation, strengthening our competitiveness, and building a brighter future for the company and the communities we serve,” he added.

        The expansion has created new high-skilled positions across engineering, technical operations, moulding, quality control, automation, and management. Polyplas is also intensifying its talents development efforts through structured training, upskilling programmes and university collaborations that support Malaysia’s national talent development priorities.

        Established in 1988, Polyplas has steadily expanded its production footprint and technical competencies. The company acknowledges the continuous support of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), MIDA, and relevant agencies in facilitating its growth. Polyplas remains committed to strengthening Malaysia’s manufacturing ecosystem by supporting supply chain resilience, advancing talent, and contributing to the nation’s long-term industrial development.

        *** THE END ***

        About MIDA

        The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 21 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

        About Polyplas Sdn. Bhd.

        Polyplas Sdn Bhd, established in 1988, is a Malaysian-owned precision injection moulding company specialising in high-quality plastic components for the industrial product, med-tech product, and consumer goods sectors. The company is committed to technological innovation, automation, workforce development, and sustainable manufacturing practices. Headquartered in Penang, Malaysia, Polyplas continues to strengthen its role within the nation’s manufacturing ecosystem. For more information, visit https://gscorp.com.my

        For media enquiries, please contact:

        MIDA
        Siti Halimaton Mohd. Rejab
        Director, Chemical and Advanced Material Division
        Email: [email protected]
        Phone: 603-2267 6701

        Polyplas Sdn. Bhd.
        Andrew Teoh
        Managing Director
        Email: [email protected]
        Phone: +601116399836

        Polyplas Launches New Facility, Advancing Local Talent and Industrial Growth


        Content Type:

        Duration:

        PENANG, Malaysia, 24 October 2025 – Linktel Technologies, a global leader in high- speed optical communication solutions, marked a significant milestone with the opening of its plant 2 and 14th Anniversary Celebration in Penang. The new facility will produce next-generation optical transceivers across multiple specifications, including 1.6T, 800G, 400G, 100G, 40G, 25G, and 10G. These components are critical for artificial intelligence (AI) computing, high-performance computing (HPC), and data centres. The facility uses proprietary technology and fully automated Industry 4.0 systems to improve efficiency and support Linktel’s global operations.

        The ceremony was graced by the presence of YB Tuan H’ng Mooi Lye, Penang State EXCO for Local Government and Town & Country Planning; Muhammad Ghadaffi Sardar Mohamed, Director of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) Penang Office; and S. Asmaazura Ismail, General Manager of Investment Manufacturing, Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA), alongside James Zhang, Group Chief Executive Officer, and Lin Xuefeng, Managing Director of Linktel Technologies.

        YB Tuan H’ng Mooi Lye, Penang State EXCO for Local Government and Town & Country Planning, stated, “Linktel’s expansion with its second plant in Penang underscores the state’s robust industrial ecosystem, built on more than five decades of industrial excellence that continues to attract global players seeking regional growth. This expansion also reflects the steady emergence of advanced manufacturing in Penang, enabling companies like Linktel to support high-end technologies in the state.”

        Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of MIDA, highlighted, “Linktel Technologies’ continued expansion in Penang shows strong investor confidence in Malaysia’s industrial capabilities and our readiness to support global technology companies. This investment strengthens the nation’s role in high- performance connectivity and semiconductor technologies, sectors that are critical to the future of manufacturing. This brings tangible benefits to our economy through quality job creation, supply chain development, and technology transfer. We are seeing companies like Linktel choosing Malaysia as a centre for both production and innovation. This aligns perfectly with the National Semiconductor Strategy and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, which focus on moving Malaysia up the value chain in advanced manufacturing.”

        Mr. Lin Xuefeng, Managing Director of Linktel Technologies Malaysia, added, “Plant 2 marks more than an expansion – it represents our continued trust in Malaysia as a strategic base for innovation, production, and talent. The strong support from the federal and the state governments have enabled us to grow with confidence. We look forward to contributing further to Malaysia’s industrial transformation and to advancing technologies that power the global digital economy.”

        Since establishing operations in 2021, Linktel has charted a rapid growth trajectory, from its first manufacturing facility (Plant 1) to the launch of Plant 2, with plans already underway for Plant 3. To date, the company has created over 1,500 skilled jobs across its operations, reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a hub for advanced manufacturing and demonstrating its long-term commitment to the country’s industrial development.

        END-

        About MIDA

        The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 21 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

        About InvestPenang

        InvestPenang is the Penang State Government’s principal agency for the promotion of investment. Its objectives are to develop and sustain Penang’s economy by enhancing and continuously supporting business activities in the State through foreign and local investments, including spawning viable new growth centers. To realise its objectives, InvestPenang also runs initiatives like the SMART Penang Center (providing assistance to SMEs), Penang CAT Center (for talent attraction and retention), Global Business Services (GBS) Focus Group (promoting and developing digital economy), and Penang Silicon Design @5km+ (establishing a unique and interconnected ecosystem for IC design and technology enterprises). For more information, please visit https://investpenang.gov.my/ and follow InvestPenang’s social media channels: Facebook; LinkedIn; WhatsApp Channel and TikTok

        About Linktel Technologies Sdn.Bhd.

        Linktel Technologies, with international operation centers and customer service offices in USA, Singapore, Malaysia, and China, providing high-quality products for high-speed optical l/O connectivity including high speed pluggable transceivers, optical engines, and ODM/JDM services. Linktel is committed to becoming the world’s leading partner in optical communication connectivity solutions, consistently delivering high-quality products to our global customers while ensuring stable quality, agile delivery, and sincere service.

        For media enquiries, please contact:

        MIDA

        Mr. Mohd Mazlan Mokhtar
        Director, Electrical & Electronics Division
        Email: [email protected]
        Tel: +603-2267 6655

        InvestPenang

        Elaine Cheah / Arief Ferdaus
        Communications & Business Intelligence
        Tel: +604-646 8833
        Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

        Linktel Technologies Sdn.Bhd.

        Ms. Ng Siew Ping
        HR & Admin Manager
        Email: [email protected]
        Tel: +60-43827268

        Linktel Technologies Expands in Penang with New Plant, Strengthening Malaysia’s Advanced Manufacturing Ecosystem


        Content Type:

        Duration:

        • Swift Bridge Technologies becomes Malaysia’s first local manufacturer of certified EV chargers, fully developed and assembled domestically.
        • RM11.2 million over three years to establish full production lines for AC (7kW–22kW) and DC (120kW–600kW) EV chargers.
        • Job creation: Over 200 skilled Malaysian jobs.
        • Strategic partnerships: MoUs signed with Ideal Property Group, ChargeSini, EV Plus, and SDEC Karuna at GATE 2025, witnessed by MIDA CEO and MARii CEO.

        Kuala Lumpur, 12 November 2025 — Swift Bridge Technologies (MFG) Sdn. Bhd. (Swift Bridge Technologies) will advance Malaysia’s electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing ecosystem through the localisation of EV charger production. This project involves a total investment of RM11.2 million over the next three years.

        The collaboration was formalised during the Global Automotive & Technology Expo (GATE 2025) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), where Swift Bridge Technologies signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with Ideal Property Group, ChargeSini, EV Plus, and SDEC Karuna. The MoU exchange was witnessed by Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of MIDA and Mr. Azrul Reza Aziz, Chief Executive Officer of Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii).

        Swift Bridge Technologies will establish full production lines for AC EV chargers (7kW–22kW) and DC EV chargers (120kW–600kW). The company targets an annual output of 10,000 AC chargers by 2026 and 1,000 DC chargers by 2028, positioning itself as Malaysia’s first local manufacturer of certified EV chargers.

        Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA, stated, “MIDA welcomes Swift Bridge Technologies’ initiative to localise EV charger production in Malaysia, a significant step in strengthening our domestic EV infrastructure. This investment reflects growing confidence of industry players in Malaysia’s policy direction under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint, and Green Investment Strategy. Through such collaborations, we are advancing our national objectives to attract quality, technology-driven investments, deepen local supply chains, and create high-skilled employment that supports Malaysia’s transition towards a sustainable, high-value economy.”

        Building Local Capacity

        Swift Bridge Technologies is investing in human capital development to train over 200 skilled Malaysian talents within the next three years. This includes professionals for maintenance, commissioning, and field service roles as well as engineers and technicians in product design, process engineering, and assembly operations.

        All EV chargers produced will be tested and certified by SIRIM QAS, ensuring compliance with international and Malaysian standards for safety, reliability, and performance.

        Dato’ SK Chong, Executive Chairman of Swift Bridge Technologies, stated, “This collaboration with MIDA and SIRIM marks a major milestone for Malaysia’s EV industry. Swift Bridge Technologies is proud to be the first local manufacturer of certified EV chargers, fully developed and assembled in Malaysia. Together with our partners, we are creating jobs, developing talent, and strengthening our local supply chain under a proudly Malaysian brand.”

        Strengthening the EV Ecosystem

        The locally manufactured EV chargers will serve a wide range of users – from Charging Point Operators (CPOs) and Property Developers to commercial and residential customers. The initiative is set to expand Malaysia’s local supply chain and reinforce the nation’s position as a regional leader in EV manufacturing and green technology innovation.

        -ENDS-

        From left to right:
        Mr. Muhammad Fa’izzul Zaidi, General Manager, SDEC Karuna JV Sdn. Bhd.
        Mr. Henry Jiang, Managing Director, LCD OEM Partner, Swift Bridge Technologies and Executive Director, Swift Kart Sdn. Bhd.
        Mr. Du, Director, Lincher Technology Partner, Swift Bridge Technologies
        Dato’ SK Chong, Group Managing Director, Swift Bridge Technologies (MFG) Sdn. Bhd.
        Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)
        Mr. Azrul Reza Aziz, Chief Executive Officer, Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii)
        Mr. James Goh Chiang Lock, Founding & Managing Director, ChargeHere EV Solution Sdn. Bhd.
        Dato’ Muhamad Adzrill bin Abu Bakar, Director, Ideal Property Group
        Mr. Jayson Peh, COO, EV Plus Mobility Solutions Sdn. Bhd.
        Eunice Teoh, Chief Executive Officer, EV Plus Mobility Solutions Sdn. Bhd.
        From left to right: 
        Ir. Dr. Ngoo, Industry Advisor, Swift Bridge Technologies
        Mr. Henry Jiang, Managing Director, LCD OEM Partner, Swift Bridge Technologies and Executive Director, Swift Kart Sdn. Bhd.
        Eunice Teoh, Chief Executive Officer, EV Plus Mobility Solutions Sdn. Bhd.
        Mr. Du, Director, Lincher Technology Partner, Swift Bridge Technologies
        Dato’ Muhamad Adzrill bin Abu Bakar, Director, Ideal Property Group
        Dato’ SK Chong, Group Managing Director, Swift Bridge Technologies (MFG) Sdn. Bhd.
        Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)
        Mr. Azrul Reza Aziz, Chief Executive Officer, Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii)
        Mr. James Goh Chiang Lock, Founding & Managing Director, ChargeHere EV Solution Sdn. Bhd.
        Mr. Jayson Peh, COO, EV Plus Mobility Solutions Sdn. Bhd.
        Mr. Muhammad Fa’izzul Zaidi, General Manager, SDEC Karuna JV Sdn. Bhd.
        Datuk Dennis Chuah, Chairman, EV Association Malaysia

        About MIDA

        The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. With Headquarters in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 21 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

        About Swift Bridge Technologies (MFG) Sdn. Bhd.

        Swift Bridge Technologies (MFG) Sdn. Bhd., a subsidiary of the Swift Bridge Group, is Malaysia’s first manufacturer of certified electric-vehicle (EV) chargers, supporting the nation’s EV localisation and industrialisation roadmap.

        Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Sungai Petani, Kedah, the company specialises in precision high-frequency coaxial test cable assemblies, automotive harnesses, and EV charging solutions. Swift Bridge’s locally assembled AC (7 kW – 22 kW) and DC (120 kW – 600 kW) chargers are SIRIM QAS-certified, meeting both international and Malaysian safety standards.

        Through continuous investment in research & development, local talent building, and Industry 4.0–ready production, Swift Bridge is developing a strong ecosystem of Malaysian engineering excellence—driving home-grown innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness.

        For more information, visit www.swiftbridgetechnologies.com or email [email protected].

        For media enquiries, please contact:

        MIDA
        Ms. Noor Suziyanti Saad
        Director,
        Transportation Technology Division
        Tel: +603-2267 3575
        Email: [email protected]

        Swift Bridge Technologies (MFG) Sdn. Bhd.
        Dato SK Chong
        Managing Director
        Swift Bridge Sdn Bhd
        Phone: 04-261 0029
        Email: [email protected]

        Swift Bridge Technologies Announces its Localised Production of Malaysia’s First EV Chargers with RM11.2 Million Investment


        Content Type:

        Duration:

        • The Central Region initiative is projected to drive long term growth.
        • Two-day programme convenes over 800 industry leaders, policymakers, business communities and investors to address supply chain integration gaps.
        • Contributing an estimated RM24.5 billion to GDP annually.
        • MOU signed between MIDA and MRCB signals infrastructure commitment.
        • Programme features international benchmarking with Netherlands’ Brainport Industries model.

        Kuala Lumpur, 11 November 2025 —The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), together with the Department of Federal Territories and State Governments of Selangor, Negeri Sembilan and Melaka through their respective investment promotion agencies, today launched a two-day Central Region Programme that signals a maturing approach to industrial development—one that prioritises ecosystem integration.

        The programme arrives at an opportune moment. Global supply chains are reconfiguring, and Malaysia’s Central Region—already home to established capabilities in financial and global services hubs, electrical and electronics, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and food manufacturing—is positioned to capture a larger share of high-value production networks. The initiative projects RM24.5 billion in annual GDP contribution, RM12.5 billion in approved investments yearly, and 5,000 high-value jobs over five years.

        At the Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur, over 800 industry leaders, policymakers, business communities and investors convened under the theme “Innovating Industries, Connecting Markets” to align on what distinguishes this effort: its focus on strengthening supply chain linkages and enabling local enterprises to scale alongside multinational partners.

        Building on Proven Strengths

        YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), positioned the initiative as the natural evolution of Malaysia’s industrial strategy, stating, “The Central Region Industrial Cluster Initiative strengthens Malaysia’s industrial backbone by connecting suppliers, talent, and innovation hubs—turning strong foundations into faster investment, smarter tech adoption, and real opportunities for local enterprises to scale. Aside from policy clarity, Malaysia’s revamped fiscal tools also reward real industrial outcomes: if you invest in capability, we will match it with facilitation and targeted incentives. And the Central Region cluster is where the strategy engine soars to translate pure potential into actual production, exports and jobs.”

        The Minister’s emphasis on building rather than starting afresh reflects a strategic reality, the Central Region already possesses substantial industrial infrastructure, skilled workforce pools, and established manufacturing ecosystems. The programme aims to connect these assets more deliberately.

        Regional Synergy in Action

        YB Datuk Seri Dr. Zaliha Mustafa, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories), remarked, “The Federal Territories serve as the strategic heart of the Central Region by providing the intellectual infrastructure, global services ecosystem, innovation capacity and governance efficiency that, through strong regional synergy, enable manufacturers in neighbouring states to grow with confidence. Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya anchor corporate functions, research and development support, advanced testing facilities, smart city readiness and a deep talent pool, which together strengthen regional competitiveness by giving investors reliable access to high-value services and seamless connectivity. Working alongside MIDA and our regional partners, the Federal Territories are committed to shape a cohesive and future-ready industrial cluster that drives sustainable and high-tech economic growth for the entire Central Region.” 

        The commitment from state leadership underscores the programme’s collaborative foundation. YAB Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari, Menteri Besar of Selangor, articulated the rationale for regional cooperation: “Selangor has substantial industrial capacity—the factories, the workforce, the infrastructure are all in place. What this programme addresses is the need to strengthen connections between our manufacturers and help them integrate with the right partners. When the four states work together, we present investors with a far more comprehensive proposition. This is fundamentally about creating shared value across the region.”

        YAB Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf Yusoh, Chief Minister of Melaka, drew on Melaka’s proud legacy as a historic global gateway: “From the glory days of the Melaka Sultanate, our state has always been a bridge connecting regions and driving trade. Today, we are reviving that legacy not just through modern trade routes, but by strengthening advanced manufacturing networks and new growth industries. With strong halal food hub capabilities and major developments such as the Melaka Hi-Tech Park, German Technology Park and Elkay 2.0, Melaka is positioned as a key engine of Malaysia’s industrial future.”

        “Melaka fully supports the Central Region development. Our strategic location and readiness enable us to contribute meaningfully to this regional ecosystem, allowing companies to tap into shared capabilities and elevate competitiveness across the nation.”, he added. 

        YAB Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Aminuddin bin Harun, Menteri Besar of Negeri Sembilan, spoke to his state’s strategic positioning, “Negeri Sembilan has developed strong capabilities in aerospace, pharmaceuticals and precision manufacturing, aligned with the development plan of Malaysia Vision Valley 2.0. However, we recognise that competing effectively requires this kind of regional collaboration. When companies evaluate Southeast Asia, they assess ecosystem strength—supplier availability, workforce quality, operational efficiency. This programme strengthens our collective ability to meet those requirements.” 

        Ecosystem-Driven Approach

        YBhg. Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA, made it clear about what distinguishes this initiative, ” We have long measured success by the quantum of investments announced. This programme represents a deliberate shift—we seek investments that integrate deeply into our economy, that enable our SMEs to participate in global supply chains, and that create genuine upward mobility for our workforce. MIDA’s mandate has evolved significantly. The Central Region complements the equally significant regional economic corridors, namely ECER, NCER, Iskandar, RECODA, and SEDIA. This requires seamless collaboration between federal and state governments, meaningful partnerships between industry and academia, and a government that functions as an enabler rather than merely an authority. When we speak of transformation, this is what we mean.”

        Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, MIDA CEO

        Industry Engagement and Knowledge Exchange

        Day one brought together industry practitioners—including Greatech Technology, Besi Apac, Collins Aerospace, and representatives from PETRONAS—to share insights on supply chain development and digital transformation. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission led discussions on scaling 5G deployment from pilot projects to full industrial implementation, addressing both the opportunities and practical challenges of smart manufacturing adoption.

        Day two’s sector-specific breakouts addressed pharmaceutical ecosystem development with Rezk Ventures, aerospace and E&E supply chain optimisation with Texas Instruments and CTRM, halal food manufacturing positioning with Nestlé and Baba’s, talent pipeline strengthening through industry-academia partnerships, and startup funding pathways from seed to Series A and beyond.

        The participation of Brainport Industries from the Netherlands, a region that has successfully transformed itself into a high-tech manufacturing cluster provides valuable peer insights into collaborative industrial development models that transcend individual jurisdictions.

        Timely Strategic Positioning

        The initiative’s timing aligns with broader shifts in global manufacturing. As companies seek to diversify production networks and build resilience, Malaysia’s Central Region offers a compelling proposition: established industrial capability, strategic geographic position, political stability, and now, coordinated ecosystem support across state boundaries.

        The exchange of a memorandum of understanding between MIDA and Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad demonstrates infrastructure commitment beyond policy statements. The involvement of all four – Federal Territories’ Minister, Menteri Besar of Selangor and Negeri Sembilan and Chief Minister of Melaka, in substantive dialogue including a fireside chat moderated by the MITI Minister signals the depth of economical alignment behind the initiative. 

        ***The End***

        About MIDA

        The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the Government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 21 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

        For media enquiries, please contact:

        Mr. Sukri Bin Abu Bakar
        Director of Domestic Investment Division
        Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)
        Email: [email protected] | DL: +603-2267 3685

        Central Region Programme Showcases Malaysia’s Collaborative Push for Industrial Growth and Supply Chain Ecosystem


        Content Type:

        Duration:


        Empowering Local Vendors, Strengthening Malaysia’s New Energy Ecosystem, and Building
        Global Partnerships

        • A high-impact Supplier Development and Partnership Programme, organised by MIDA, in collaboration with Hyundai, reinforces Malaysia’s position as a rising regional hub in the new energy and mobility ecosystem through localisation and technology transfer.
        • The initiative connects 12 Malaysian vendors with Hyundai and 36 of its global Tier-1 suppliers to encourage joint ventures, technical assistance, and technology cooperation parnerships.
        • The collaboration supports advancing manufacturing capabilities by boosting high-value supply chains and accelerating technology adoption in advanced manufacturing.

        Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Seoul, The Republic of Korea (ROK) – 3 November, 2025 – The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) in collaboration with Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY) organised a five-day Supply Chain Development and Partnership Programme to strengthen Malaysia’s localisation capabilities, enhance the technical expertise of local vendors, and support the country’s transition towards an advanced new energy ecosystem

        Held from 27 to 31 October 2025 in ROK, the programme brought together 12 Malaysian vendors and 36 Hyundai global Tier-1 suppliers for exclusive business matching sessions, factory visits, and technology sharing engagements designed to promote collaboration and knowledge exchange. Participants also visited Hyundai’s Asan Plant and Hyundai Motor Studio, gaining first-hand insights into the company’s advanced manufacturing systems and innovation in mobility solutions.


        Driving the Future Together

        Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, MIDA CEO, emphasised the importance of this collaboration, stating, “This partnership marks an important step in strengthening Malaysia’s position as a leading regional automotive player, in line with the National Automotive Policy (NAP) and the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030. It reflects our steadfast commitment to driving industry transformation through innovation, technology transfer, and strong public-private collaboration. Through this partnership with Hyundai, MIDA seeks to empower Malaysian vendors to move up the value chain, enhance local capabilities, attract quality investments, and accelerate the nation’s transition towards next-generation mobility.”

        Through this strategic collaboration, MIDA and Hyundai are working hand in hand to connect Malaysian vendors with regional and global Tier-1 suppliers, opening new pathways for long-term partnerships and market access. Beyond capability building, the programme also lays the groundwork for future joint ventures, technical alliances, and co-development projects, fostering a more resilient and innovation-led supply chain for Malaysia’s new energy industry.

        Strengthening Malaysia’s Position in the Region

        Four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were also signed between Malaysian and Korean vendors to support Hyundai’s vehicle production in Malaysia through technical collaboration. This partnership is vital for strengthening the local automotive ecosystem by giving Malaysian technical vendors access to advanced technologies and manufacturing expertise. This will elevate product quality, improve efficiency, and expand technical capabilities, aligning with global standards. The collaboration also promotes local participation in the automotive supply chain, reducing import dependency while stimulating innovation, skilled job creation, and sustainable growth within Malaysia’s automotive industry.

        Commitment to Long-Term Growth

        “Hyundai remains deeply committed to Malaysia not only as an investor, but as a long-term partner in progress,” said Jahabarnisa Haja Mohideen, Managing Director of Hyundai Motor Malaysia. “We look forward to continuing our collaboration with MIDA, our supply chain partners, and the wider automotive ecosystem to drive sustainable growth for our partners, the economy, the government, and ultimately, our customers.”

        The collaboration builds on Hyundai’s broader efforts to localise production and nurture technology-driven partnerships across the region. As part of its global vision of Progress for Humanity, Hyundai continues to champion innovation and inclusive growth: bringing world-class mobility solutions closer to communities while contributing to national economic development.

        Standing from left to right: Ms Jahabarnisa Haja Mohideen, Managing Director, Hyundai Motor Malaysia, Ms Sudiana Muhamad Nawati, Deputy Director of Transportation Technology Division, MIDA and Mr. Kyu Weon Kang, Head of Procurement, Hyundai Manufacturing Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

        *****

        About MIDA

        The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 21 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

        About Hyundai Motor Company

        Established in 1967, Hyundai Motor Company is present in over 200 countries with more than 120,000 employees dedicated to tackling real-world mobility challenges around the globe. Based on the brand vision ‘Progress for Humanity,’ Hyundai Motor is accelerating its transformation into a Smart Mobility Solution Provider. The company invests in advanced technologies such as robotics and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) to bring about revolutionary mobility solutions while pursuing open innovation to introduce future mobility services. In pursuit of a sustainable future for the world, Hyundai will continue its efforts to introduce zero-emission vehicles with industry-leading hydrogen fuel cell and EV technologies.

        More information about Hyundai Motor and its products can be found at: https://www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en/ or Newsroom: Media Hub by Hyundai.


        For More Information, Please Contact:

        MIDA
        Ms. Noor Suziyanti Saad
        Director, Transportation Technology Division, MIDA
        Email: [email protected]
        DL: +603-2267 3575

        HYUNDAI MOTOR MALAYSIA
        Chegne Shuk Yin
        Public Relations
        [email protected]
        +6016-225 7830

        Farisya Khairuddin
        Public Relations / Innocean Malaysia
        [email protected]
        +6012-405 0381

        Karisma Krishnasamy
        Public Relations / Mad Hat Asia
        [email protected]
        +6016-205 0174

        MIDA and Hyundai Motor Malaysia Drive Strategic Supply Chain Development, Strengthening Malaysia’s Automotive Industry


        Content Type:

        Duration:

        Johor, Malaysia, 29 October 2025 — OTS Holdings Limited (“OTS Holdings” or the “Company”, and together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”), a brand builder and food manufacturing group announces the grand opening of its new advanced food manufacturing facility located at Simpang Renggam, Johor.

        The RM40 million investment in the halal-certified facility, equipped with advanced F&B machinery and automation systems, positions the Group to significantly expand its market reach. The facility will increase monthly production capacity to 200 tonnes —tripling the current Singapore halal production output of 60 tonnes.

        From left to right-1. Mr. Mohamad Reduan Mohd Zabri, Director, MIDA Johor; 2. Ms. Wan Hariati Wan Salleh, Senior Deputy Director, Food Technology & Resources Based Industries Division, MIDA; 3. Yang Berhormat Tuan Lee Ting Han, Chairman of Johor State Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee; 4. Mr. Ong Bee Chip, Managing Director, OTS Holdings Limited; 5. Mdm. Ong Chew Yong, Executive Director, OTS Holdings Limited; and 6. Dr. Yu Lai Boon, Non-Executive Chairman and Independent Director, OTS Holdings Limited

        The event on 28 October 2025 was graced by Yang Berhormat Tuan Lee Ting Han, Chairman of the Johor State Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee, along with representatives from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Enterprise Singapore, the Singapore Business Federation, the Johor State Islamic Religious Department, as well as representatives from banking institutions, partners, and business associates.

        Backed by advanced production capabilities and in-house R&D expertise, the Group has undertaken extensive renovation and upgrading works, since acquiring the property for RM14.3 million in November 2023, to ensure the new facility aligns with the Group’s stringent food manufacturing standards, quality controls and operational requirements.

        The facility, which spans a land size of 178,863 square feet with a built-up area of 65,000 square feet, is dedicated exclusively to halal production and has successfully obtained its halal certification in August 2025.

        Notably, the Johor manufacturing facility is equipped with new advanced F&B machinery and automation, which will enable the Group to maintain stringent quality standards while operating with a lean workforce.

        YBhg. Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, CEO of MIDA, commented, “The opening of Ellaziq’s new facility in Johor affirms Malaysia’s strategic role in the global halal economy, particularly in the advanced food manufacturing sector. It is a clear testament to the confidence international brand builders have placed in our country’s ecosystem, infrastructure and skilled workforce.”

        “This expansion leverages the unique close proximity and economic synergy between Johor and Singapore, delivering dual benefits, strengthening regional supply chains while substantially increasing our national halal capacity to better serve not just Muslimconsumers, but also those who prioritise halal-certified products globally. This project strongly aligns with the government’s economic agenda by creating high-quality jobs and driving the use of advanced machinery. MIDA remains fully committed to supporting high-value investments that deliver significant, tangible growth.”

        Managing Director of OTS Holdings, Mr. Ong Bee Chip said: “Our new Johor facility reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the Muslim consumer segment, which continues to grow both in value and demand.

        Our focus is not just on increasing volume, but on creating products that resonate with the values and expectations of the Muslim community, while maintaining the stringent standards of food quality and safety.

        Targeting the growing Muslim consumer market locally and abroad—from Singapore and Malaysia to the Middle East, UAE, and Africa, our enhanced production capacity will also strengthen our export capabilities, extending our trusted halal brands and high-quality products to a larger audience globally.”

        *****

        About MIDA

        The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA has 12 regional and 21 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

        About OTS Holdings Limited
        (Bloomberg: OTS:SP / SGX Stock Code: OTS)

        Established in 1993, OTS Holdings Limited is a brand builder and food manufacturing group in the consumer industry with a strong niche in ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook meat products with key markets in Singapore and Malaysia.

        The Group’s vision is to develop a growing portfolio of established consumer brands and become an innovative market leader in the region. Targeting both halal and non-halal consumer segments, the Group has more than 1,100 SKUs across 13 main product types under its eight house brands and notably the Group’s flagship brands, “Golden Bridge” and “Kelly’s” have become established household names within the ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook meat products market in Singapore and Malaysia.

        The Group owns and operates three modern food manufacturing facilities, two in Singapore and one in Simpang Renggam, Johor, Malaysia. In Singapore, its integrated food manufacturing facilities with in-house research and development team span across around 98,285 square feet with an average annual production of around 2,500 tonnes of ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook meat products.

        The Group’s food products are sold in major supermarkets, convenience stores, provision shops, hotels and restaurants in Singapore and Malaysia. Having built an established sales and distribution network over the past few decades, the Group aims to expand its presence in existing markets and overseas.

        For more information, please visit the Company’s website at www.ots-holdings.com.

        For media enquiries, please contact:

        MIDA
        Ms. Wan Hariati Wan Salleh
        Senior Deputy Director,
        Food Technology & Resource Based Industries Division
        Tel: +603-2267 6654
        Email: [email protected]

        OTS Holdings Limited

        Issued on behalf of OTS Holdings Limited by 8PR Asia Pte Ltd.

        Mr. Alex TAN
        Mobile: +65 9451 5252
        Email: [email protected]

        This press release has been prepared by the Company and its contents have been reviewed by the Company’s Sponsor, SAC Capital Private Limited (“Sponsor”). This press release has not been examined or approved by the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (“SGX-ST”) and the SGX-ST assumes no responsibility for the contents of this press release, including the correctness of any of the statements or opinions made or reports contained in this press release.

        The contact person for the Sponsor is Ms Audrey Mok (Telephone: (65) 6232 3210), at 1 Robinson Road, #21-01 AIA Tower, Singapore 048542.

        OTS Holdings Expands Halal Production Capacity with Grand Opening of Ellaziq’s Advanced Manufacturing Facility in Johor


        Content Type:

        Duration:

        wpChatIcon