Newly launched “Productivity Through Digitalisation – AI4S Programme Proof-of-Concept Projects Compilation” Booklet features 31 successfully completed pilot projects

Penang, 22 JUNE 2022 – As part of the Artificial Intelligence for SMEs (AI4S) Programme, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC) and Intel Malaysia have collaborated to launch the “Productivity Through Digitalisation – AI4S Programme Proof-of-Concept Projects Compilation” booklet.

The launch was officiated by Datuk Hanafi Sakri, Senior Director of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) in the presence of YAB Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang; Datuk Arham Abdul Rahman, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MIDA; Mr. Ajit Manocha, President and CEO of SEMI; and Dato’ Seri Wong Siew Hai, President of Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA) and Champion of Electrical & Electronics Productivity Nexus (EEPN). Also in attendance were Ms. AK Chong, Vice President of Manufacturing, Supply Chain and Operations at Intel Corporation and MD of Intel Malaysia; Dr. Mohamad Norjayadi Tamam, Director of MPC and Ms. Sarojini Ganesan, Deputy Director of the Advanced Technology and R&D of MIDA.

Datuk Arham, CEO of MIDA said, “Companies that adopt and adapt Industry 4.0-related technologies such as AI can optimise productivity and grow in the face of rapid changes in technology cycles. Hence, MIDA is committed to building a resilient and sustainable Malaysian electrical and electronics (E&E) supply chain through the development and enhancement of our very own SMEs through this AI4S Programme. This perfectly aligns with our National Investment Aspirations (NIA) in encouraging the innovative transformation of our industries through proactive and guided measures. We are undoubtedly excited to witness the future success of our SMEs in the year to come through this programme.”

Last year, a total of 100 SME companies were selected to participate in the AI4S Programme, where each company was awarded with an Artificial Intelligence (AI) kit. These SMEs underwent comprehensive technology enabling process and training to empower them to implement personalised pilot projects for their businesses to jump-start their AI technology adoption journey. Upon the completion of AI4S Programme that began in the first quarter of 2021, 31 successfully completed pilot projects have been selected to be featured in the AI4S Booklet.

The AI4S Booklet is a testament of the relevance of AI applications for business processes, including SME companies. Notably, the AI4S Programme saw 63 per cent of the participants utilised the AI kit for detection for quality assurance (QA); approximately 13 per cent integrating AI into their system for detection for traffic; another 10 per cent of the participants utilised the AI kit for on-site monitoring; another 10 per cent utilised the AI kit for detection for counting, where else the remaining four (4) per cent used the kit for entry control and recognition.

Dr. Mohamad Norjayadi Tamam, Director of MPC, is confident that the Proof-of-Concept projects featured in this booklet can serve as lessons learned in charting the transformation of their own Industry 4.0 journey. As the operation partner for this AI4S programme, MPC is in-charge of the training and implementation delivery programme management for all the five (5) training batches of the 100 companies.

Ms. AK Chong, Managing Director of Intel Malaysia, remarked “Innovation in technology has never been more important to our present and our future. For our nation to advance its global competitiveness, businesses across all sectors need to embrace technology and innovate continuously. Through this partnership with MIDA and MPC, Intel is pleased to be able to equip SMEs with skills in AI and help them create solutions for their businesses. We are confident that this experience will catalyse innovation and growth for many of the participants, and we look forward to seeing what they achieve next.”

MIDA is actively urging industry leaders and players to take the opportunity and leverage the numerous facilitations offered by the Government to embrace Industry 4.0. These include encouraging companies to undertake Readiness Assessment (RA) programme to assess their capabilities and readiness to adopt Industry 4.0 technology under the Industry4WRD initiative.

This augurs well with the Government’s push for the development of AI technology and ecosystem in Malaysia through relevant ministries and agencies in line with the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy (NSTIP) 2021-2030.

The policy is targeting to increase gross expenditure on R&D (GERD) per gross domestic product (GDP) to 3.5 per cent, with 50 per cent of the GERD to GDP to be contributed by experimental development. This is in addition to promoting development and adoption of local technology.

Towards this goal, the National Science Council was formed and mandated to discuss various government efforts including technology roadmaps to popularise the field of science, technology and innovation (STI) as an enabler for socio-economic stabilisation of the country in line with the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (12MP).

For more information, interested stakeholders may contact the Advanced Technology and Research and Development Division of MIDA at www.mida.gov.my.

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About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of International 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 Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Tiktok and YouTube channel.

For more information, please contact:

For more information, please contact:
Mr. Syed Kamal Muzaffa
Director, Advanced Technology and Research and Development Division, MIDA
Email: [email protected] | DL: +603 2267 6611

MIDA, MPC & Intel Malaysia’s Collaborative Artificial Intelligence For SMEs (AI4S) Programme Proves AI Application Is Relevant For SMEs

KUALA LUMPUR – 21 June 2022 – Spotlighting critical issues including sustainability and supply chain resilience, SEMICON Southeast Asia 2022, the region’s premier gathering of the semiconductor and microelectronics industry, is opening its doors for 3-days of regional industry engagement. Returning to the Setia SPICE Convention Centre in Penang for the first time in three years due to the pandemic, the 21-23 June event will connect semiconductor manufacturing equipment companies, private and public partners, and other key industry stakeholders to explore new collaboration and growth opportunities. The opening was officiated by YAB Mr Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister, Penang.      

Themed Forward as One – Building A Resilient and Sustainable Electronics Supply Chain in Southeast Asia, SEMICON Southeast Asia 2022 will also commemorate Malaysia’s 50^th Year of Manufacturing Excellence and celebrate Penang’s reputation as the Silicon Valley of the East, built on decades of manufacturing excellence and industrial experience.  Held physically after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, and after five years in Penang, the showcase brings together industry experts from around the world for critical insights into the semiconductor ecosystem, new business opportunities and collaboration.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Ajit Manocha, CEO of SEMI said that SEMICON Southeast Asia 2022 underscores the significance of the Electrical and Electronics (E&E) industry both in Malaysia and the broader Southeast Asia region. “This is the most exciting time in the industry’s history. We witnessed unprecedented challenges with the Covid-19 pandemic, but the semiconductor industry has coped well and shown strong growth. The most important lesson from the pandemic has been how crucial semiconductors are to all facets of lives.”

“SEMICON Southeast Asia 2022 will drive conversations in this space, whilst also discussing the importance of sustainability and building stronger supply chains.”

“The accelerating digital transformation and the convergence of AI (artificial intelligence), IoT (Internet of Things), AR/VR (augmented reality/virtual reality), quantum computing, autonomous machines and many other emerging technologies will touch virtually every end market, resulting in tremendous opportunities for the semiconductor industry.”

“SEMICON Southeast Asia 2022 will drive conversations in this space, whilst also discussing the importance of sustainability and building stronger supply chains.”

The Chief Minister of Penang, YAB Mr. Chow Kon Yeow, said: “With an all-time high export value of RM364 billion, Penang topped the nation’s list in 2021. The state’s significance in the electrical and electronics (E&E) industry is well-attested as Penang accounted for over 5% of the global semiconductor sales and made up close to 60% of Malaysia’s E&E exports. Penang is also known as a regional hub for front-to-back-end equipment manufacturing, serving the needs of E&E industry along the value chain. These achievements have greatly demonstrated the state’s sustained excellence as the Silicon Valley of the East, making Penang a valuable site to host SEMICON Southeast Asia 2022.”

“2022 is also a year of celebration for Penang as we step into our 50^th anniversary of industrialisation. Holding on the tagline ‘50 Years of Excellence and Beyond’, the state strives to uphold its conducive ecosystem capable of stimulating the advancement of strategic industries for the next 50 years and beyond,” Chow added.

SEMICON Southeast Asia 2022 is expected to draw more than 10,000 attendees and features two (2) themed pavilions, two (2) global pavilions, inspiring keynote presentations, and a host of technology forums to address key trends and issues in the electronics manufacturing supply chain.

Datuk Arham Abdul Rahman, Chief Executive Officer of Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) said, “MIDA is honoured to have worked with SEMI Southeast Asia since 2015 to promote and update our industry stakeholders on technological advancements. Digitalisation and expanding consumer demand for electronics will drive continuous change in the years ahead because the opportunities are boundless. As mapped out in the National Investment Aspirations (NIA), there is more space for us to grow. Developing new clusters and innovation in the existing areas will create highly skilled jobs, expand regional and global supply chains and increase our effort in bringing socio-economic development.

Malaysia is home to over 5,000 investors from more than 40 countries. In the first quarter of 2022, Malaysia continued to attract a total of RM42.8 billion approved investments, of which the Electrical and Electronics industry contributed RM19 billion with 13,700 new job opportunities.”

“MIDA will stay committed in building resilient and sustainable electronics supply chain in Malaysia and the ASEAN region. We pursue high-quality and technology-driven investments to boost socio-economic development and trade growth. Apart from local industry players, we are expanding the benefits of our manufacturing ecosystem to global businesses and brands.” added Datuk Arham.

Attendees at SEMICON Southeast Asia 2022 will experience a robust line-up of experts and thought leaders from semiconductor organisations around the world.

SEMICON Southeast Asia 2022 Highlights

• Smart and Sustainable Manufacturing Journey will focus on state-of-the-art technologies that can increase manufacturing efficiency and world-class sustainable practices.
• World of IoT Pavilion will highlight existing and emerging technologies and applications enabled by semiconductor innovation.
• Technical Forums will offer insights on industry trends whilst providing networking and other information-sharing opportunities.
• CxO Summit sessions will feature industry opinion leaders.
• Workforce and Talent Development Pavilion will feature the largest E&E career fair and career talks by industry experts to help the industry build its talent pipeline.
• SEMICON University Program will feature aspiring leaders from the E&E industry and a robust panel to engage in a discussion on Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity (DEI).

For more information on SEMICON Southeast Asia 2022, visit the conference website.

About SEMI

SEMI® connects more than 2,500-member companies and 1.3 million professionals worldwide to advance the technology and business of electronics design and manufacturing. SEMI members are responsible for the innovations in materials, design, equipment, software, devices, and services that enable smarter, faster, more powerful, and more affordable electronic products. Electronic System Design Alliance (ESD Alliance), FlexTech, the Fab Owners Alliance (FOA), the MEMS & Sensors Industry Group (MSIG) and SOI Consortium are SEMI Strategic Technology Communities. Visit www.semi.org to learn more, contact one of our worldwide offices, and connect with SEMI on LinkedIn and Twitter.

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of International 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 Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

About InvestPenang

InvestPenang is the Penang State Government’s principal agency for 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) and i4.0 seed fund (a catalyst for the startup ecosystem). For more information, please visit https://investpenang.gov.my/ and follow InvestPenang’s social media channels: Facebook ; LinkedIn.

Media Contacts
Ryan Teo
SEMI Southeast Asia Pte Ltd
[email protected]
+65 9859 0883

Reshvinder Kaur (for SEMI Southeast Asia Pte Ltd)
[email protected]
+6017 275 7985

Ms. Noor Suziyanti Saad
Director, Electrical and Electronics Division, MIDA
Email: [email protected] | DL: +603-2267 3575

Yeoh Bit Kun / Ooi Phei Wen
InvestPenang
[email protected] / [email protected]

Sustainability and Supply Chain Resilience Take Centre Stage at SEMICON Southeast Asia 2022

Paris Baguette to invest more than RM130 million towards their first Halal certified bakery manufactory in the world

KUALA LUMPUR, 17 JUNE 2022 -Paris Baguette Singapore, owned by South Korean food and beverage giant SPC Group, announced their first Paris Baguette Halal certified bakery manufacturing and distribution centre to be built in Johor, Malaysia. 

Dubbed SPC Centre, Johor, the construction is set to begin in the third quarter of this year and will involve a total investment expected to exceed RM130 million. The facility is slated to be operational in June 2023. Johor-based SPC Centre will manufacture about 100 items such as bread, cakes, and desserts to supply to Paris Baguette outlets in Southeast Asia countries including Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia and Indonesia. The facility will also serve as a production and distribution hub to supply to future Halal markets such as the Middle East countries. Notably, the new facility is expected to create close to 100 new job opportunities. 

SPC Group Chairman, Mr. Huh Young-in said, “The SPC Centre, Johor, will act as a cornerstone of our Southeast Asia business expansion and aid in the venture into the Middle East. SPC Group is looking forward in contributing to the huge global Halal food market potential of over USD2 trillion. The new Johor-based facility will span 16,500 square metre and will be located at Nusajaya Tech Park (NTP).  NTP is a strategic location with seamless access to international airports and seaports in both Singapore and Malaysia that connects to all major cities in Asia supporting its business expansion into the Southeast Asia and Middle East region.

In addition to the strategic location and friendly business policies, Malaysia is also an ideal investment destination for us due to its Halal landscape. We will continue to invest aggressively to accelerate our global expansion.”

SPC Group also aims to build an additional global manufacturing and distribution centre in Malaysia that will expand and support the company’s production. The company will focus on the Muslim market, which accounts for 24% of the world’s population or 1.9 billion people, through its Halal certification.

Malaysia had a head start in building a well-structured Halal regulation and ecosystem. The Federal Government’s Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) and Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC) lead this dynamic industry with a vast pool of knowledgeable talent and well-established infrastructure in applying the Halal Industry Master Plan 2030.

“As pioneers in the Halal industry, we have the responsibility to continue to lead and facilitate Halal-related industries. MIDA in its capacity has facilitated 15 food manufacturing projects amounting to RM1.5 billion with dedicated Halal incentives, utilising state-of-the-art machineries and processes, creating 1,749 food-tech job opportunities in ‘ready-to-eat’ (RTE) products, bakery products, frozen food products, confectionery products, instant noodles, snack foods and processed poultry products. To strengthen the Halal F&B manufacturing further, we are delighted to welcome the SPC Group through its subsidiary Paris Baguette Logistics Sdn. Bhd. into Malaysia. We hope to continue attracting high-value players like SPC Group who support our National Investment Aspirations (NIA) by injecting new knowledge, create new job opportunities for local talent and offer more collaborative options to local vendors,” shared Datuk Arham Abdul Rahman, Chief Executive Officer of Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). 

The brand founded in 1988 has been progressively and successfully growing its presence in Southeast Asia. Expansion to markets such as Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Indonesia. In addition, Paris Baguette is engaging with potential partners to expand Paris Baguette outlets in Malaysia. The brand is also set to open its 100th store in the United States with plans to open its first flagship store in Toronto, Canada this year. The franchise is also set to further expand in China and the United Kingdom.

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About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal promotion agency under the Ministry of International 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 Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok.

About Paris Baguette

Paris Baguette, born in 1988, is a global bakery chain business and subsidiary of the SPC Group, a leading South Korean food and confectionery conglomerate. From the modest beginnings, the chain had grown steadily and grew into the No.1 bakery in Korea. From 2004, the brand started to branch out to local subsidiaries in the U.S. China, Vietnam, and Singapore and today, it owns over 4,000 units globally including 3,400 in South Korea, 440 plus outlets across the United States, China, France, Canada, and Southeast Asia becoming a truly global premium bakery brand. Its mission to satisfy cravings and taste buds of all ages and backgrounds still continous with the spirit of Sangmidang, which is to not leave a single piece of bread unchecked, is still with us 75 years later.

About SPC Group

SPC Group is a Korea-based global food company, with more than seventy years of history and experience in the Korean market with companies including SPC SAMLIP Co., LTD., Paris Croissant Co., LTD and BR Korea Co., LTD (Baskin Robbins, Dunkin’ Donuts) and 30 undisputable brands across 7,000 stores. SPC Group owns and operates brands such as Paris Baguette, Paris Croissant, Passion 5, Coffee@Works, LaGrillia, Queens Park, Vera, StrEAT and Bizeun covering the bakery, dessert, and restaurant business worldwide.

SPC Group has successfully introduced global brands to the Korean market including Baskin Robbins, Dunkin’ Donuts, Caffe Pascucci, LINA’s, Jamba Juice, Shake Shack and Eggslut. The bakery brand, Paris Baguette, has entered markets overseas including France, the US, China, Singapore, and Vietnam with over 440 stores. In addition, SPC Group is striving to pursue its mission to make the society healthier and happier by fulfilling their social responsibilities and cooperating with stakeholders to lead a healthy food culture and grow into a Great Food company loved by the globe.

Media Enquiries:

Ms. Manjit Kaur Balkar Singh
Director, Food Technology and Resource-Based Industries Division, MIDA
Email: [email protected] | Tel: +603-2267 3509

Ms. Hanna Yoo
Marketing and Communication, Manager
Email: [email protected] l Tel: +65 8355 9095

South Korea’s SPC Group Set To Build Halal Certified Food Manufacturing Facility In Malaysia

Penang June 14, 2022 — TF-AMD Microelectronics Sdn. Bhd. today announced plans to expand its manufacturing facility in Penang with the construction of a second site at Batu Kawan Industrial Park, Penang. With nearly RM2 billion of capital investment, the new manufacturing facility is expected to create more than 3,000 new jobs in advanced semiconductor engineering, design, and process technologies for high-performance computing solutions. The strategic expansion builds on the significant investments TF-AMD has made in Malaysia over the past 50 years that will support the company’s continued growth.

The announcement took place at a celebratory event at TF-AMD’s Bayan Lepas facility in Penang. The officials who attended and spoke at the ceremony included YAB Chief Minister of Penang, Tuan Chow Kon Yeow; Penang State Exco Trade, Industry & Entrepreneur Development, Yang Berhormat Dato Haji Abdul Halim Bin Haji Hussain; Chief Executive Officer, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), YBhg. Datuk Arham Abdul Rahman; Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of AMD, YBhg. Dato’ Devinder Kumar; Chairman of TFME, Mr. Shi Ming Da; and Managing Director, Corporate Vice President of TF-AMD, Mr. Neoh Soon Ee. The officials were also accompanied by Chief Executive Officer, InvestPenang, YBhg. Dato’ Loo Lee Lian and Chief Executive, Northern Corridor Implementation Authority, (NCIA) YBrs. Tuan Mohamad Haris Kader Sultan.

The Chief Minister of Penang, YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow said “Penang is pleased to see TF-AMD, a prominent global player in high technology assembly and test, deepening its roots in the state. With a presence that spans half a century, TF-AMD’s expansion has greatly demonstrated the conduciveness of Penang’s business environment, buoyed by its resilient supply chain, excellent infrastructure and future-proof talent pool. With TF-AMD’s wealth of knowledge and experience in the electrical and electronics (E&E) industry, I’m confident that this strategic expansion plan will provide immense opportunities for local talent development in high-performance computing solutions.”

“The State, via InvestPenang and other relevant state agencies, is committed to outpace investors’ expectations by providing continuous facilitation throughout this expansion project. Penang looks forward to another 50 strong years with TF-AMD,” Chow added.

“As one of the key eight (8) investors or famously known as “Samurai 8” that drove the industrialisation of “Silicon Valley of the East in Malaysia”, TF-AMD has been instrumental in the enormous growth of the local semiconductor ecosystem. In the last five (5) decades, TF-AMD has never ceased to consider Malaysia as part of its growth opportunity, investing across different parts of the semiconductor value chain. We are excited to know that the establishment of the manufacturing plant will also create opportunities for local companies through the vendor development programmes. This includes targeting to employ more than 3,000 additional employees predominantly from the science and technical background and develop local vendors within the next five (5) years in the areas of Industry 4.0, automation and engineering services.

Malaysia continues to be the investment destination for high-value manufacturing and global services in Asia. Foreign investors’ confidence in Malaysia continues to grow because the nation is a haven for one of the most comprehensive ecosystems in the region; the Electrical and Electronics (E&E) and Machinery and Equipment (M&E) industries, making the country as the preferred single largest site for offshore semiconductor firms, like TF-AMD. We aspire to see more companies emulate TF-AMD’s success story by raising their bar in terms of best practices and capabilities in the near future.” said Datuk Arham Abdul Rahman, CEO of MIDA.

Chairman of TF-AMD, Mr. Shi Ming Da is truly pleased to be celebrating TF-AMD Penang’s 50th anniversary in the same year of this momentous expansion and investment. “Malaysia is endowed with outstanding geographic location, good business environment, diligent and sincere workforce, which strengthens our confidence for continued investment in Malaysia. TF-AMD has growth momentum in the semiconductor industry in becoming one of the world’s best assembly and test service providers for high-end processors. At this meaningful moment, TF-AMD is embarking on a new chapter and will be ready to make a giant leap forward. TF-AMD is fully committed to pioneering the advanced assembly and packaging business in the semiconductor industry and build an even more glorious future!”

Mr. Neoh Soon Ee, Managing Director, Corporate Vice President of TF-AMD commented “This is an exciting day for TF-AMD as it marks the beginning of a new chapter in our continued pursuit of providing excellent support to our customers with differentiated high-value engineering solutions. The new facility, spanning 1.5 million square feet and occupying approximately 14 acres, will manufacture advanced integrated circuit technology and is expected to be completed in 2023. Once completed, the facility will bring TF-AMD’s total manufacturing capacity to over 2.3 million square feet.”

“AMD has had outstanding growth in the last few years and TF-AMD has played a key role as a strategic supplier and partner in supporting our growth. We are pleased with the expansion plans for assembly, test and packaging services of our joint venture TF-AMD which will further increase the capacity and supply to support AMD’s future growth” said Dato’ Devinder Kumar, Executive Vice President, CFO and Treasurer of AMD. “Penang has played a critical role in assembly and test operations for AMD and TF-AMD for more than 50 years and we are pleased to mark another important milestone in our long-standing business presence in Penang and Malaysia.”

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About MIDA
MIDA is the government’s principal promotion agency under the Ministry of International 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 Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok.

About Invest Penang
InvestPenang is the Penang State Government’s principal agency for 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 realize its objectives, InvestPenang also runs initiatives like the SMART Penang Center (providing assistance to SMEs), Penang CAT Center (for talent attraction and retention) and i4.0 seed fund (a catalyst for the startup ecosystem). For more information, please visit https://investpenang.gov.my/ and follow InvestPenang’s social media channels: Facebook; LinkedIn.

About TF-AMD
TF-AMD Microelectronics (Penang) Sdn. Bhd. located in Penang, Malaysia is one of the state-of-art Assembly and Test service provider for high performance computing and communication solutions. As one of the pioneer companies in Penang, our mission is to enable our global customers success with leading edge and differentiated high value packaging solutions. For more information, please visit https://www.tf-amd.com.my

For media enquiries, please contact:

MIDA
Ms. Noor Suziyanti Saad
Director, Electrical and Electronics Division, MIDA
E: [email protected] T: +603-2267 3575

InvestPenang
Ms. Yeoh Bit Kun / Ms. Ooi Phei Wen
InvestPenang Communication and Business Intelligence E: [email protected] / [email protected]

TF-AMD
Mr. Gary Khoo Edelman Public Relations for TF-AMD
E: [email protected] T: +60 12-932 9280

Ms. Yvonne Chee
Chief of Staff to Managing Director, CVP
E: [email protected] T: +604-252 2448

AMD
Mr. Drew Prairie
AMD Communications
E: [email protected] T: +1-512-602-4425

TF-AMD Expands its Presence in Malaysia with New Manufacturing Site

Kuala Lumpur, 14 June 2022 – Malaysia has attracted a total of RM42.8 billion (USD10.2 billion) approved investments in the manufacturing, services and primary sectors, involving 910 projects in January to March 2022. The foreign direct investments (FDI) remained the major contributor, at 65 per cent or RM27.8 billion (USD6.6 billion), while investments from domestic sources contributed 35 per cent amounting to RM15 billion (USD3.6 billion). The approved investments for this period will create 24,906 new jobs in the country.

During the period, the manufacturing sector continued to assume an important role in driving the country’s economic recovery, accounting for more than half (70.1 per cent) of total approved investments of RM30 billion (USD7.1 billion), followed by the services sector at RM12.7 billion (USD3 billion) (29.7 per cent) and the primary sector at RM0.1 billion (USD40.4 million) (0.2 per cent).

FDI accounted for 65 per cent or RM27.8 billion (USD6.6 billion) of approved investments. Of the total investments approved, Germany dominated foreign investments for the period January to March 2022, with investments totaling RM8.9  billion (USD2.1 billion) (32 per cent), followed by Brunei RM 5.1 billion (USD1.2 billion) (18.3 per cent), the United States of America (USA) RM3.9 billion (USD0.9 billion) (14.0 per cent), Hong Kong RM3.3 billion (USD0.8 billion) (11.9 per cent), and Japan RM3.2 billion (USD0.8 billion) (11.5 per cent) of total approved FDI in the country.

For projects approved by state, five (5) major states, namely Kedah, Penang, Selangor, Sabah and Johor, contributed RM31.8 billion (USD7.6 billion) (74.3 per cent) of the total investments approved from January to March 2022.

YB. Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, Senior Minister and Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI) said, “Malaysia remains an attractive investment destination for global investors with the manufacturing sector maintaining its position as a key pillar of the economy for 2022 generating significant multiplier effects on the nation’s growth. Today, we are proud to have over 5,000 companies from more than 40 countries that have made Malaysia their location for manufacturing and related services operations.”

The Senior Minister highlighted that Malaysia will continue to focus on high growth and high value-added sectors which offer Malaysians exciting job opportunities. “Aligning to the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (RMK12), Malaysia has been securing new investments that position well with the country’s National Investment Aspirations (NIA) and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles. This will stand us in good stead to capture more economic opportunities. We look forward to seeing more significant growth for the second quarter of 2022,” he added.

The Malaysian Government has lined-up strategic and focused trade and investment missions (TIM) targeted to capture investments in high technology, innovation and research-driven industries that will complement the Malaysian industrial ecosystem. The recent TIM to USA in May 2022 was indeed a successful initiative that has secured RM16.52 billion (USD3.77 billion) in the committed investment for 2022. The pro-business administrative continues to be prudent and pragmatic in its policies to ensure that Malaysia’s investment climate remains attractive for businesses; not only to conduct business activities, but also expand and diversify existing operations.

Manufacturing Sector

Malaysia continues to attract high quality investments in the manufacturing sector for the period January to March 2022, reflecting the country’s competitiveness as a preferred location for investment in the region. The manufacturing sector contributed RM30 billion (USD7.1 billion), which is 70.1 per cent of the total approved investments in various sectors of the economy, compared to RM59.4 billion (USD14.3 billion) in the same period in 2021.

The approval of a megaproject was cited as the reason for the high total investment in the manufacturing sector in the first quarter 2021. The approved investment performance in the manufacturing sector in the first quarters of 2020 and 2022 followed a similar pattern if excluding the megaproject, with RM25.9 billion (USD6 billion) and RM30 billion (USD7.1 billion), respectively.

Of the total approved investments in first quarter 2022, FDI amounted RM26.8 billion (USD6.4 billion) or 89.3 per cent, while the remaining RM3.2 billion (USD0.7 billion) or 10.7 per cent were from domestic sources.

Expansion/diversification projects in the manufacturing sector showed positive developments, with a 106.8 per cent increase in total investments approved of RM19.2 billion (USD4.6 billion). Of the total approved investments, 90.6 per cent or RM17.4 billion (USD4.1 billion) was from foreign investment sources. This testifies investors’ confidence in Malaysia as a choice of location and to continue reinvestment in high-tech industries and benefit from the vibrant business environment and diversified domestic supply chain ecosystem that contributes significantly to Malaysia’s economy. In addition, these investments will increase management, technical and professional employment opportunities by 36.9 per cent compared to 28.9 per cent for the same period in 2021.

The ratio of employment opportunities for Malaysians to foreigners is 88:12, meeting the investment criteria set by MITI/MIDA to create more employment opportunities for Malaysians and reduce the dependency on foreign workers.

In terms of top-performing industries in January to March 2022, the electrical and electronics (E&E) took the lead (RM18.6 billion (USD4.4 billion), followed by petroleum products (including petrochemical) (RM5.1 billion (USD1.2 billion), non-metallic mineral products (RM1.9 billion (USD0.5 billion), chemicals and chemical products (RM1.1 billion (USD0.3 billion), machinery and equipment (RM0.7 billion (USD0.2 billion), food manufacturing (RM0.7 billion (USD0.2 billion) and paper, printing and publishing (RM0.3 billion (USD0.1 billion) and textiles and textile products (RM 0.3 billion (USD0.1 billion). These industries made up RM 28.9 billion (USD6.9 billion) (96.3 per cent) of total approved investments for the manufacturing sector.

The capital investment per employee (CIPE) ratio of the projects approved during the period was RM1,382,764 (USD329,229) compared to RM2,089,348 (USD503,457) during the same period last year.

A total of 21,666 job opportunities are expected to be created in the manufacturing sector, includes 1,086 managerial positions and 2,562 technical professionals such as engineers in the fields of E&E, mechanical, chemical, and other disciplines, reflecting the manufacturing sector’s higher value chain transition. Plant maintenance supervisors, tool and die makers, machinists, IT personnel, quality controllers, electricians, and welders are also among the 4,343 skilled craftsmen needed for the approved manufacturing projects.

Notable projects approved during the period include:

• TTM Technologies Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. a leading U.S. based global manufacturer of printed circuit boards (PCBs), radio frequency (RF) components and RF microwave/microelectronic assemblies is investing RM550 million (USD130 million) to manufacture PCB and printed circuit boards assembly (PCBA) in Pulau Pinang. This project will further boost Malaysia’s domestic E&E ecosystem by creating high-tech jobs for Malaysians and opportunities for local vendors.

• Petroventure Energy Sdn. Bhd. (PESB), a foreign majority owned company from Brunei will be manufacturing petroleum products in Sabah, including gasoline, kerosene, benzene, liquefied petroleum gas, acrylic, sulphur, slurry, fuel oil and diesel. This project will help Sabah’s economy to spur as the products from the refinery will create a new supply chain that will benefit many businesses. Also, the project is anticipated to create 500 potential job opportunities in the state.  

Services Sector

In the first three months of 2022, a total of 720 services projects were approved with investment valued RM12.7 billion (USD3 billion), or 29.7 per cent in the services sector compared to RM33.1 billion (USD8 billion) approved for the same period in 2021. Once implemented, these projects are expected to generate 3,219 jobs.

Based on the total approved investments for the period January to March 2022, domestic investments made up the largest portion, recording RM11.7 billion (USD2.8 billion) or 92.1 per cent of the total approved investments for the services sector, while the remaining 7.9 per cent or RM1 billion (USD0.2 billion) were from foreign sources.

The real estate sub-sector with a total approved investment of RM5.9 billion (USD1.4 billion) (46.5 per cent) leads the services sector, followed by the utilities sub-sector        RM2 billion (USD0.5 billion) (15.7 per cent), hotel sub-sector and tourism RM1.5 billion (USD0.4 billion) (11.8 per cent), financial services sub-sector RM0.9 billion (USD0.2 billion) (7.5 per cent), and global establishments sub-sector RM0.9 billion (USD0.2 billion) (7.4 per cent).

A total of two sub-sectors saw an increase in investment, namely the hotel and tourism sub-sector (581.7 per cent) and other services (70.4 per cent); and one project was approved in the health services sub-sector compared to the same period in 2021, when no approvals were recorded. This is in line with the Government’s strategy in implementing the domestic travel bubble, which aids in the growth of the hotel and tourism industries.

Primary Sector

The primary sector contributed RM169.5 million (USD40.4 million) or 0.2 per cent, of total investments approved in various sectors of the economy for the period January to March 2022 compared to RM6.2 billion (USD1.5 billion) approved for the same period last year.

Domestic investment dominated the primary sector with RM151.6 million (USD36.1 million) (89.5 per cent), while foreign investments totalled RM17.8 million (USD4.2 million) (10.5 per cent).

The agriculture sub-sector has shown a significant growth in total approved investments (RM164.2 million (USD39.1 million), up 1,327.8 per cent from RM11.5 million (USD2.8 million) for the same period in 2021. This is in line with the Securities Policy Action Plan Food 2021-2025, which was developed to strengthen the country’s supply chain and food security.

The country’s economic growth prospects for 2022 are expected to improve further, as the country transitions to the endemic phase of COVID-19 beginning April 1, 2022. According to Bank Negara, Malaysia’s economy is expected to grow between 5.3 to 6.3 per cent in 2022. Reopening international borders and the relaxation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) are expected to have a more positive impact in the country’s economic recovery.

In addition, various policies led by the Ministry, such as National Investment Aspirations (NIA), National Trade Blueprint (NTBp), New Industrial Masterplan (NIMP) and the Malaysian Digital Economy Blueprint will continue to promote investment momentum, ensuring Malaysia’s competitiveness as an investment destination of choice.

Malaysia continues to offer comparative advantages to potential investors. This is proven by the Global Opportunity Index 2022 by Milken Institute which ranked Malaysia first in emerging Southeast Asia as the country with the most potential to attract foreign investors.      

Malaysia has experienced new economic growth in 2021, with RM309.4 billion (USD74.2 billion) in approved investments in the manufacturing, services and primary sectors. Despite the unique global calamities, total FDI and DDI numbers have exceeded expectations, with stellar performance increased to 84.8 per cent from the achievement attained in 2020.

“Our efforts to keep our borders open, maintain external connectivity and ensure business continuity have given global companies the confidence to continue to site their projects in Malaysia. MITI and MIDA will continue in our efforts to identify more quality projects to be implemented in the coming years. This is something which we must strive to maintain in the years to come as the world becomes more tumultuous” added the Senior Minister.

As of 7 June 2022, there are 268 projects with proposed investments of RM14.4 billion (USD3.3 billion) in the manufacturing and services sectors that are within MIDA’s pipeline.

Moving forward, MIDA has identified 446 high-profile investment prospects including Fortune 500 companies in the manufacturing and services sectors with a combined potential investment value of RM150.4 billion (USD34.3 billion) as of 1 June 2022.     

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About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of International 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 Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, TikTok and YouTube channel.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Ms. Fatmah Ahmad
Director, Corporate Communications Division, MIDA
Email: [email protected] | DL: +603-2267 2428

Malaysia Records RM42.8 billion Approved Investments For The First Quarter 2022

KUALA LUMPUR, 9 JUNE 2022 – Nextgreen Global Berhad (NGGB) held a Groundbreaking Ceremony for Phase 1B of its facility at the Green Technology Park (GTP) in Pekan, Pahang today. The ceremony was officiated by YAB Dato’ Sri Haji Wan Rosdy bin Wan Ismail, Chief Minister of Pahang. The Phase 1B facility will involve the construction of three (3) buildings that will manufacture tissue paper, animal feed and fertilisers. In terms of production, the tissue paper plant is expected to produce 10,000 metric tonnes, while the other two (2) other factories are expected to produce 30,000 metric tonness of animal feed and organic fertilisers, respectively.

The total proposed new investment for the construction of these three (3) plants is approximately RM162 million, with the breakdown as follows: –

i) Tissue Paper Plant	RM 80 Million
ii) Animal Feed Plant	RM 50 Million
iii) Fertiliser Plant	RM 32 Million

YAB. Dato’ Sri Haji Wan Rosdy bin Wan Ismail remarked, “The State Government hopes that the investment from NGGB will attract more potential investors towards environment, social and governance (ESG) centric projects in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the sustainability development of Pahang state. The State Government will always provide our support and assistance in facilitating these investments for the success of the state. Through this investment, the State Government hopes to create more job opportunities and further improve the livelihood of the community and the economy of the State.”

Datuk Arham Abdul Rahman, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) congratulated NGGB’s Management and staff, saying “In Malaysia, the pulp and paper industries are driving towards the usage of empty fruit bunches (EFB) from palm oil as it provides abundant raw materials for the production of pulp and paper. Over the last five (5) years (2017– 2021), MIDA has approved 48 biomass-related projects amounting to RM1.24 billion. MIDA will continue to facilitate our industry players and provide the necessary support to our investors, such as NGGB in realising their sustainable and inclusive investments, that will create new industry networks, positive spill-over and creation of high-value jobs aligned with our National Investment Aspirations (NIA). MIDA hopes for more industry players to participate in producing higher value bio-based products, beyond solely exporting raw materials. This provides a solution in addressing climate change while encouraging local socio-economic development.”

YH. Dato’ Baidzawi Che Mat, Chief Executive Officer of the East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC) said, “The three new investments in Phase 1B at the GTP reflects investors’ confidence to explore investments in the ECER Region in general and Pahang in particular. The emphasis on green technology ventures in GTP is in line with the SDGs, and this has been a value-add that enhances the attractiveness of the GTP to potential investors. ECERDC, MIDA, and the State Government will facilitate and support these investors’ to efficiently execute their projects for the benefit of the local community, including their applications for the ECER Incentive Package.”

In conjunction with the groundbreaking event, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was also inked between NGGB and the National Farmers Organisation (NAFAS) with the aim of developing an agriculture industry that is green, sustainable and environmentally-friendly. The MOU was signed by Dato’ Lim Thiam Huat, Managing Director, NGGB and Dato’ Haji Zamri Yaakob, Chairman of NAFAS. The MOU outline several areas of strategic collaboration, including the production of organic fertilisers, eco-friendly animal feed and viable strategic investments.

According to Dato’ Lim Thiam Huat, Phase 1B of the construction reflects the company’s continuous commitment in solidifying green technology within the country and to complete part of the GTP development plan across 410 acres in Pekan, Pahang. The strategic collaboration between NGGB and NAFAS is a vital step towards aligning our agriculture industry with the national green technology agenda that is based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and further contribute towards a competitively priced national food supply.

Furthermore, the efforts initiated through the concept of ‘zero waste’ development in the GTP will support the growth of the circular economy, which is based on the concept of production and recycling waste from factories to be converted into products such as organic fertilisers and animal feed. The GTP’s waste-to-money initiative will certainly create a sustainable corporate ecosystem for the country, particularly in light of the current global economic challenges.

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About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal promotion agency under the Ministry of International 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 Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok.

About Nextgreen Global Berhad

Nextgreen Global Berhad is a Malaysia-based investment holding company. The company is dedicated to creating a sustainable green economy by integrating the production of non-wood sustainable pulp and paper with renewable energy and zero waste technology.

The company started its operations in 1982 as a printing company, offering pre-press, press and post-press services, and currently is the first magazine and book printing company listed on the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange. In 2015, Nextgreen diversified its business activities to the manufacturing of renewable pulp and paper products. Nextgreen is revolutionising the pulp and paper industry by integrating the production of non-wood green pulp and paper with renewable energy and zero waste technology.

Nextgreen is currently positioning Green Technology Park (GTP) located in Pekan, Pahang, to be the largest pulp and paper producer hub in Asia.

Media Enquiries:
Ms. Manjit Kaur Balkar Singh
Director, Food Technology and Resource-Based Industries Division, MIDA
Email: [email protected] | Tel: +603-2267 3509

Mr. Mohd Syarul Razi Mohd Hazmi
Special Officer to the Director of Nextgreen Global Berhad
Email: [email protected] | Tel: +6014-537 2306

Nextgreen Global Berhad Breaks Ground For its Manufacturing Plant at Green Technology Park, Pahang

Senai, Johor, 2 June 2022 – Insulet Corporation (Nasdaq: PODD), a US-based medical devices company headquartered in Acton, Massachusetts, has selected Gelang Patah in Johor, Malaysia for one of its manufacturing locations to produce its Omnipod® Insulin Management System. The company held the groundbreaking of its new site that will expand upon Insulet’s existing manufacturing capacity in the USA and China.

The groundbreaking event was attended by YAB Datuk Onn Hafiz Dato’ Ghazi, Chief Minister of Johor; YB Tuan Lee Ting Han, Johor State Investment, Trade and Consumer Affairs; YBhg. Datuk Arham Abdul Rahman, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA); Mr. Charles Alpuche, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Insulet Corporation; and representatives from other stakeholders.

Insulet’s investment was discussed during the recent Trade and Investment Mission (TIM) to the USA led by YB. Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, Senior Minister and Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI), which included a meeting with Insulet Corporation’s representatives in Washington DC.

In welcoming Insulet into Malaysia’s medical devices ecosystem, YB. Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali remarked, “Insulet’s proposed investment project of approximately USD200 million in Malaysia is very much aligned with our Twelfth Malaysia Plan (12MP), which champions the medical devices industry as one of the key industries that will help propel Malaysia into the high technology trajectory, and the National Investment Aspirations (NIA) that focuses on attracting quality foreign investments into Malaysia with intensification on research and development (R&D) and new technologies. The Government recognises that companies place a high value on talent. Thus, we anticipate positive spillovers from Insulet’s endeavor, including the creation of high-income jobs for our Malaysian talents in high-tech fields, strategic local vendor development programmes particularly within our vibrant engineering support industry segment, university collaborations, as well as training and upskilling programmes for the local workforce. We will continue to strengthen the infrastructure required for Malaysia to be a “Home for Talent,” driving businesses and innovation in Asia and the world.”

Datuk Arham Abdul Rahman, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) echoed the Senior Minister, saying, “Insulet’s entry into Malaysia is a testament of our attractiveness in bringing premium and high-tech medical devices product manufacturers into the country, consistent with our aspiration in making the country as the regional medical devices manufacturing hub to serve ASEAN as well as the rest of the world. We welcome Insulet’s global expansion and their addition to Malaysia’s ever-growing medical devices industry ecosystem. We look forward to having Insulet open up new business opportunities for technology transfer and integrating of our local vendors into its global supply chain network.”

Dato’ Dr. Badrul Hisham Kassim, Chief Executive of the Iskandar Regional Development Authority (IRDA) further highlighted, “Insulet Corporation’s new manufacturing facility not only reflects investors’ continuing confidence in Iskandar Malaysia, but their presence also emphasise our strength as a centre for manufacturing and healthcare services, which are two (2) of the nine (9) promoted sectors here. We will continue to develop and enhance local talents to support the need of our new and existing investors in Iskandar Malaysia.”

Charles Alpuche, Insulet’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer shared, “At Insulet, we are driven by our mission to improve the lives of people with diabetes globally. That is why our top priority is to ensure our customers have continued access to our Omnipod products. Johor Bahru, Malaysia offers a strategic location in the ASEAN region with excellent accessibility to ports and a qualified workforce to staff our next manufacturing facility.”

Malaysia is well-positioned to be the manufacturing hub for the medical devices industry in Asia. Presently, Malaysia is home to over 200 manufacturers, with more than 30 medical devices MNCs producing high value-added medical devices. The second and third tiers of medical device manufacturers for parts and components of medical devices have increased opportunities for local vendors to be integrated into the global supply chain of this industry.

For 2021 alone, MIDA has approved 38 manufacturing projects worth RM7.68 billion (USD1.84 billion), which are expected to create 12,498 employment opportunities for the country. The industry shows great promise in generating high-income jobs, increasing export value, and reinforcing the domestic supply chain ecosystem.

This announcement with Insulet Corporation is yet another example of how global companies in the USA base their decisions on fundamentals. This is an exciting opportunity for Malaysia, which has evolved itself as a manufacturing hub for medical devices in Southeast Asia. Supported by the nation’s strong and matured local engineering support industry, well-connected infrastructure and talented and skilled workforce, Malaysia offers vast business and investment opportunities for global medical device companies to strategically position their presence in ASEAN.

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About MIDA
MIDA is the Government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Starting operations in 1967 with a relatively small set up of 37 staff, MIDA has grown to become a strong and dynamic organisation of over 700 employees. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA today 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 Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube channel.

For more information, please contact:
Ms. Azlina Hamdan
Director, Life Sciences & Medical Technology Division, MIDA
E: [email protected]
T.: +03-2267 3791

About Insulet Corporation:
Insulet Corporation (NASDAQ: PODD), headquartered in Massachusetts, is an innovative medical device company dedicated to simplifying life for people with diabetes and other conditions through its Omnipod product platform. The Omnipod Insulin Management System provides a unique alternative to traditional insulin delivery methods. With its simple, wearable design, the disposable Pod provides up to three days of non-stop insulin delivery, without the need to see or handle a needle. Insulet’s latest innovation, the Omnipod® 5 Automated Insulin Delivery System, is a tubeless automated insulin delivery system, integrated with a continuous glucose monitor to manage blood sugar with no multiple daily injections, zero fingersticks, and is fully controlled by a compatible personal smartphone. Insulet also leverages the unique design of its Pod by tailoring its Omnipod technology platform for the delivery of non-insulin subcutaneous drugs across other therapeutic areas. For more information, please visit: insulet.com and omnipod.com.

Insulet Corporation Selects Malaysia As One Of Its Manufacturing Sites For The Production Of The Omnipod Insulin Management System

Kuala Lumpur, 9 June 2021 – YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, Senior Minister and Minister of International Trade and Industry, presented at the Cabinet today on the impressive investment approvals for the first quarter (Q1) of this year, despite the unprecedented economic challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The members of the Cabinet endorsed the Q1 2021 approved investment by responding optimistically that Malaysia will successfully weather the storm with every Malaysian’s steel effort in boosting the economy.

Malaysia recorded a total of RM80.6 billion worth of approved investments in the manufacturing, services and primary sectors in the Q1 2021 a surge of 95.6 per cent from the same period last year (RM41.2 billion).

The continued aggressive strategies to attract high level investments from both foreign and domestic investors is exhibiting promising results. These approved investments involved 993 projects and are expected to generate 32,557 job opportunities.

Malaysia remains a competitive investment location for foreign investors despite the multiple headwinds on the global front. Total approved foreign direct investments (FDI) in the manufacturing, services and primary sectors increased by 383.4 per cent to RM54.9 billion for the period of January – March 2021 from RM11.4 billion in the same quarter last year. Singapore (RM43.1 billion), the Netherlands (RM5.0 billion), the Republic of Korea (RM4.3 billion), Chinese Taipei (RM0.5 billion) and Hong Kong (RM0.3 billion) were the top five countries in accordance to reporting by immediate source of FDI. Investments from Singapore include one 100 per cent Chinese owned mega project, where the source of funding is made through its affiliate located in the country. Meanwhile, domestic direct investments (DDI) made up the rest of RM25.7 billion, contributing 31.9 per cent to the total approved investments in all the three sectors. Five (5) states; Kedah, Selangor, Sarawak, Sabah and W.P. Kuala Lumpur contributed RM68.4 billion (84.9 per cent) to the total approved investments for January – March 2021.

The manufacturing sector leads the investments for the Q1 2021, recording RM58.8 billion, followed by the services sector at RM15.6 billion and the primary sector at RM6.2 billion.

Manufacturing Sector

The positive investment growth for Q 1 2021 was driven by the robust performance of the manufacturing sector that soared by 12 6.8 per cent compared to Q1 20 20 Malaysia’s manufacturing sector recorded approved investments of RM 58.8 billion from 24 6 manufacturing projects for Q1 2021 compared to RM 2 5.9 billion from 2 26 manufacturing projects in the same period last year. It is important to note that amid pandemic, FDI accounted for 88.9 per cent or
RM52.3 billion of the total approved investments in the manufacturing sector while the remaining 11.1 per cent or RM6.5 billion were from domestic sources.

The majority of these investments were in the electr ical and electronics (E&E) (RM47.0 billion), fabricated metal products (RM4.9 billion), rubber products (RM3.3 billion), chemicals and chemical products (RM1.1 billion), transport equipment (RM0.5 billion), food manufacturing (RM0.4 billion), machinery and equipment (4 billion) as well as paper printing and publishing (RM0.2 billion) These industries make up 98. 3 per cent of total approved investments for the sector.

Malaysia has also consistently pursued more capital intensive projects and those that support the sustainable development agenda of the nation. This is reflected by the increasing capital investment per employee (CIPE) ratio to RM2,201,838 in the first three months of 2021 from RM1,625,162 during the same period last year.

The approved manufacturing projects will create 26,689 job opportunities. The new workforce includes 943 managerial positions and 1,042 engineers in the electrical and electronics mechanical and chemical disciplines reflecting the higher value chain transition of the manufacturing sector. T he approved manufacturing projects will also require 3,518 skilled
craftsmen such as plant maintenance supervisors, tools and die makers, machinists, IT personnel, quality controllers, electricians and welders. Major industries whic require the most skilled workforce are E&E, rubber products, fabricated metal products, transport equipment and machinery and equipment.

In terms of recipients of approved investments in the manufacturing sector, Kedah registered the highest level of investments with RM42.4 billion, followed by Sabah (RM4.3 billion), Selangor (RM4.0 billion), Melaka (RM3.4 billion), and Johor (RM1.7 billion Collectively, these states contributed 95.1 per cent or RM55.8 billion to the total approved investments that will fund 165 projects. These investments are set to create 19,273 job opportunities, making up 72.2
per cent of the total employment in the ma nufacturing sector.

The leading sources of foreign investments in the manufacturing sector were Singapore, Republic of Korea, the Netherlands, Chinese Taipei, People’s Republic of China, the United States of America, Switzerland, Denmark, Germany and Hong Kong. These ten countries jointly accounted for 99.8 per cent or RM52.1 billion of total foreign investments approved in the manufacturing sector for this period.

The confidence of FDI in Malaysia has been solidifying in the manufacturing sector as foreign investors are increasingly reflecting in long term investments. One of th e n otable project s is a new manufacturing project by SK Nexilis from the Republic of Korea a copper foil producer for electric vehicle ( battery manufactur ing The proposed facility in Malaysia will fully implement the RE100 initiative, to commit to 100 per cent renewable electricity. The company’ s presence will attract more investors to complete Malaysia’s EV battery manufacturing supply chain, turning the country into high precision and high quality copper foil hub for niche applications.

Another quality project approved is Risen Energy one of the pioneers in the solar industry with extensive expertise in photovoltaic R&D and end to end solutions for the entire solar value chain manufacturing The company is the first investment approved under the PENJANA Scheme, which was launched on 5 June 2020 in supporting the relocation of international investment projects to Malaysia. Risen Energy is set to produce the latest bi facial technology solar
products to cater to the growing global market. This project will boost employment opportunities and benefit the local businesses to become part of their global value chain.

Services Sector

The services sector on the other hand, contributed 74.2 or per cent or 737 of the total number of approved projects in the first quarter of 2021. These approved service s projects are expected to create 5,669 jobs for the economy. Domestic investments made up the largest portion, recording RM15 billion or 96.2 per cent of the total approved investments for the services sector during this period. The remaining 3.8 per cent were from foreign sources. The total investments approved in the services sector recorded an increase of 3.5 per cent from the approvals recorded for the same period in 2020.

I ncrease in investments were recorded in several services sub sectors, namely financial services distributive trade, education services, real estate and global establishments Collectively, the leading contributors include real estate ( 9 billion), financial services (RM2.7 billion), utility (RM2 billion support services (RM1.2 billion) and distributive trade
(RM0.5 billion).

For the purpose of streamlining investment data, a new sub sector namely information and communications has been redefined, taking in a combination of telecommunications sub sector and Multimedia Super Corridor (MSC) status projects thus adjusting the total number of sub-sectors under the services sector to 12. This new sub sector includes publishing, programming and broadcasting, telecommunications, computer programming, consultancy as well as
information services activities which are in line with the Malaysian Industry Classification Standards Code (MSIC) 2008 set up by the Department of Statistics Malaysia.

Primary Sector

The approved investments in the primary sector registered a significant increase of 3,097.3 per cent from RM0. 2 billion in 1Q 2020 to RM6.2 billion in 1Q 2021. Investments from domestic sources continue to dominate with a total amount of RM4.2 billion or 67.7 per cent while foreign investments contri buted RM2 billion or 32.3 per cent. The primary sector was led by the mining subsector with approved investments of RM6.1 billion.

Conclusion

The upward trend of COVID 19 infections has caused a global economic upheaval across every level of societies. Governments worldwide are intensifying efforts to curb the infection with an ultimate objective to restore their economies amidst the health care of their people. The challenge remains to recharge the performance of the economic sectors to the pre pandemic era.

“In Malaysia, as we continue the battle against the COVID 19 pandemic, the country remains a primary investment destination and strategic gateway for investors. The country is steadfast in providing investors with modern day requirements and equipment. Its persistence towards engaging emerging technologies proves to be a great advantage to manufacturers in the country The unique value propositions as a high tech investment and global operations hub will entice a sustainable stream of quality investment activities in the country.” said YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali Senior Minister and Minister of International Trade and Industry.

“With our pro business, prudent and pragmatic policies, Malaysia serve s as the ideal partner for investors to do business in the region. The Government through MIDA will lend its expertise in executing the on going reform initiatives as well as the newly developed blueprints and policies, to enhance the country’s competitiveness, promoting investments and accelerating national economic development in line with the National Investment Aspirations (NIA).” added the Senior Minister.

As of March 2021 MIDA has in the pipeline, 988 projects with proposed investments of RM 54.4 billion in the manufacturing and services sectors Malaysia’s economy is expected to bounce this year with a GDP projection ranging between 6.3 per cent and 7.5 per cent based on the projection by International Monetary Fund World Bank and S&P Global Ratings, positioning the country to be the fastest growing among the ASEAN-5 countries.

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About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Headquartered in Ku ala 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 Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube channel.

MediaContacts

Manjit Kaur Balkar Singh (Ms)
Email: [email protected] | DL: +603-2267 3509

Malaysia Records RM80.6 Billion Approved Investments For The First Quarter Of 2021

“To advance the affordable housing and construction agenda, we seek to connect the relevant stakeholders towards fostering stronger collaborations and enhance the existing ecosystem to respond to both current and new challenges, creating liveable and more resilient communities,” said Mr Arham Abdul Rahman, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) at the Industrialised Building System (IBS) Adoption and Regularisation Dialogue 2018, held at MIDA HQ today

26 June 2018, Kuala Lumpur – “To advance the affordable housing and construction agenda, we seek to connect the relevant stakeholders towards fostering stronger collaborations and enhance the existing ecosystem to respond to both current and new challenges, creating liveable and more resilient communities,” said Mr Arham Abdul Rahman, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) at the Industrialised Building System (IBS) Adoption and Regularisation Dialogue 2018, held at MIDA HQ today.

“The government has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to increase the number of affordable housing for purchase and rental. Hence, the adoption of IBS remains relevant and crucial towards meeting this goal. The IBS industry can contribute in two ways. Firstly, it can speed up the construction of these affordable housings, contributing to the economic development as well as decreasing the wait time for the targeted group. Secondly, it can also indirectly reduce the number of low cost labour in the country as the need for workers in the construction site reduces,” added the Deputy CEO of MIDA.

With the theme ‘Opportunities Lie Ahead’, the half day event was jointly organised with the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) to highlight the updates and opportunities in IBS. It was the 9^th outreach programme following a series of engagements in the northern states of Penang, Perak, Kedah and Perlis; east coast of Pahang, Terengganu and Kelantan; as well as Melaka and Johor in the south.

The Dialogue featured presentations on IBS regularisation and opportunities, IBS adoption, product certification and IBS solutions by Ms Najihah Abas from MIDA’s Building Technology and Lifestyle Division, Ms Yuanti Mohamed from CIDB’s IBS Division, Mr Hasnol Zakaria from SIRIM and Mr Louis Tay, Chief Operating Officer of PLY TEC Formwork System Industries.

Topics covered include the requirements of obtaining a Manufacturing Licence. It was highlighted that many companies that have reached capital investments of RM2.5 million or hired 75 or more full-time paid employees, have yet to apply for a Manufacturing Licence from MIDA. For companies that fall below these requirements, they were encouraged to register with MIDA. These will keep them informed for any updates on related facilities and policies in the areas, including IBS.

Last year, MIDA published the IBS and Building Materials Supply Chain Directory 2017/2018. The IBS Directory is a comprehensive and useful reference point which contains in-depth profiles of over 4,000 local building material manufacturers, suppliers, contractors, professionals and relevant stakeholders in the construction industry. Companies seeking to explore business prospects and opportunities for collaboration within the IBS industry can purchase the IBS Directory from MIDA.

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About MIDA

Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) is the government’s principal promotion agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Established in 1967, MIDA is the first point of contact for investors that want to take advantage of Malaysia’s vibrant economy, world-class infrastructure and business-friendly environment to set up their profit centre in Asia.

About CIDB

The Construction Industry Development Board was established under the Construction Industry Development Act (Act 520) to develop the Capacity and Capability of the Construction Industry Through Enhancement of Quality and Productivity by Placing Great Emphasis on Professionalism, Innovation and Knowledge in the Endeavour to Improve the Quality of Life.

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For more information, please contact:

MIDA

Mdm Najihah Abas

Director, Building Technology & Lifestyle Division

[email protected] | 03-2267 6717

Posted on : 26 June 2018

Companies Urged To Venture into IBS

The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) in collaboration with IME Group of Companies with the support of Dassault Systèmes and Robert Bosch organised the MIDA-IME Industry 4.0 Showcase, today. The event, held at MIDA headquarters aimed to assist local players in their implementation of Industry 4.0. The Showcase gathered experts to demonstrate a wide range of technologies endorsed by Industry 4.0 namely simulation, additive manufacturing, system integration, digitisation, cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT) and data analytics

KUALA LUMPUR, 28 June 2018 – The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) in collaboration with IME Group of Companies with the support of Dassault Systèmes and Robert Bosch organised the MIDA-IME Industry 4.0 Showcase, today. The event, held at MIDA headquarters aimed to assist local players in their implementation of Industry 4.0. The Showcase gathered experts to demonstrate a wide range of technologies endorsed by Industry 4.0 namely simulation, additive manufacturing, system integration, digitisation, cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT) and data analytics.

Speaking at the event, Ms. Lim Bee Vian, Executive Director of the Strategic Planning (Services) of MIDA said, “It is crucial now than ever for companies to reassess and realign their business strategies to adapt to the unprecedented challenges of the new industrial revolution. We need both the industry players from the private sector as well as public sector to come together as one.”

“MIDA has been steadily making efforts to familiarise companies with smart manufacturing technologies through seminars, dialogues with business chambers, briefing with business associations, workshops and supplier conferences to MNCs and SMEs. We have identified strategic partners to promote robotics and automation, Industrial Internet of Things (IIOT) and smart manufacturing technology and solutions. The collaboration with IME adds to MIDA’s on-going initiatives in spearheading the country’s Industry 4.0 agenda. We have partnered with companies such as Rockwell Automation, Intel, Hitachi, and Siemens to showcase possible solutions to assist companies in adopting Industry 4.0 technologies. By working with these technology developers and solution providers, we act as a conduit in bringing together industry players for fresh and exciting collaborations,” she added.

Nearly 200 participants from various organisations attended the event that seeks to assist them in understanding and learning ways to incorporate the key elements of Industry 4.0 into businesses.

The full-day event featured presentations on ‘Government Facilitation Related to Industry 4.0 in Malaysia’ by MIDA; ‘Leveraging Digital Continuity for Operational Excellence’ by Dassault Systèmes, as well as panel discussion on ‘Industry 4.0 : How to Start Implementation’, which was moderated by a representative from Dassault Systèmes, with a line-up of speakers from IME, Bosch and DF Automation.

IME also conducted an Industry 4.0 workshop, which addressed 5 key steps to initiate Industry 4.0 transformation. The workshop highlighted that the adoption of Industry 4.0 elements is not necessarily costly thus it is important for organisations to identify critical areas for improvement, before developing a roadmap and evaluating suitable methods for implementation, within their budget. IME is also embarking on its own IoT projects. Solely in year 2017 itself, the company has engaged with more than 7,000 business leaders about Industry 4.0, Smart Manufacturing and IoT.

IME provides not only tailored solutions catered to engineering needs, but solutions that help organisations to grow and begin their digital transformation journey.

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal promotion agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Starting operations in 1967 with a relatively small set up of 37 staff, MIDA has grown to become a strong and dynamic organisation of over 700 employees. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA today has 12 regional and 23 overseas offices. Find out more at www.mida.gov.my

About IME:

IME (Group of companies) is a local business established since 1980, that aspires to play a role in the growth of the local industry, by providing a platform for the industry and educational sector to collaborate, share, and close the knowledge and skill gap. Founded as a CNC service and repair centre, IME has now grown into the leading product design and manufacturing solution provider in Malaysia, with a vast clientele from local and multi-national corporations, government sectors and academia; IME has established strong presence locally and expanded business coverage to ASEAN. Find out more at www.cadcam.com.my

For more information, please contact:

Mr. Jeyasigan Narayanan Nair

Director, Advanced Technology and R&D Division, MIDA

Tel.: 03-2267 6711 | Email: [email protected]

Download:

Welcome Remarks by Ms. Lim Bee Vian, MIDA – IME Industry 4.0 Showcase

Posted on : 28 June 2018

MIDA-IME Industry 4.0 Showcase

Kuala Lumpur, 10 June, 2019 – Amid the risks and challenging uncertainties in the global economy surrounding the US-China trade talks, investors remained confident about Malaysia as an investment destination.

The country successfully attracted a total of RM53.9 billion approved investments in the manufacturing, services and primary sectors for the first quarter of 2019 (Q1 2019), an increase of 3.1% from the same period last year (RM52.3 billion). The positive investment growth of Q1 2019 was mainly driven by the robust performance of the manufacturing sector that soared by 126.8% compared to Q1 2018.

Foreign investments increased by 73.4% to RM29.3 billion from RM16.9 billion in the first quarter of 2018. Domestic investments approved in Q1 2019 amounted to RM24.6 billion, contributing 45.6% to the total. The investments approved in January to March 2019 were from 1,678 projects, and are expected to generate more than 41,200 job opportunities for the country. The manufacturing sector accounted for the largest share of total potential employment in the economy with 22,970 job opportunities or 55.7%, followed by the services sector with 18,000 job opportunities (43.7%) and primary sector with 240 employment opportunities (0.6%).

Services Sector

In Q1 2019, the services sector attracted the largest portion of approved investments into the economy and garnered 1,445 approved projects with investments worth RM26.1 billion. The bulk of the investments came from domestic sources, which contributed RM18.0 billion or 69% of the total approved investments while the foreign sources contributed RM8.1 billion or 31%.

The five main sub-sectors that led the services sector with the highest total investment were real estate (RM11.0 billion or 42.3%), followed by the distributive trade (RM8.2 billion or 31.6%), utility (RM4.0 billion or 15.4%), hotel and tourism (RM1.8 billion or 7.0%) and support services (RM550.9 million or 2.1%).

Most of the job opportunities in the services sector or 95.8% will be in the distributive trade, hotel and tourism, and education sub-sectors. In the distributive trade sub-sector alone, potential employment created in Q1 2019 totalled more than 14,000, making it the largest employer within the services sector. Employment opportunities are found in both large and small establishments, with 59.3% of the employment opportunities exist in the wholesale and retail trade sector.

The development of the hospitality industry, which is well dispersed across the country will provide opportunities for the youth to learn the skills working in both high-end 5-star and 4-star hotels. Approved projects in the hotel and tourism sub-sector are expected to create about 2,300 new jobs, from managerial positions to front-line operations.

Demand is also found in the private education sector, whereby newly established private education institutions proposed to employ more than 800 employees. This includes jobs for teaching/tutoring staff at the tertiary level.

Manufacturing Sector

Malaysia’s manufacturing sector remains resilient and recorded an impressive approved investment of RM25.4 billion in Q1 2019. This is 126.8% more than RM11.2 billion recorded in Q1 2018. The trend towards more capital-intensive, high value-added and high technology projects are well reflected in the capital investment per employee (CIPE) ratio. The CIPE ratio of manufacturing projects approved in the first quarter of 2019 wasRM1,105,582 compared with RM805,531 in Q1 2018. A total of six manufacturing projects with investments of at least RM1 billion, with total investments of RM16.5 billion, were approved in Q1 2019. The manufacturing sector also featured 20 projects approved with investments of at least RM100 million or more. Investments into these 26 projects reached RM22.3 billion or 87.8% of total investments approved in the manufacturing sector.

The manufacturing projects approved will create 22,970 new job opportunities. The jobs created include 1,590 electrical and electronics engineers, 710 mechanical engineers and 180 chemical engineers. In addition, the approved manufacturing projects will also require about 1,710 skilled craftsmen such as plant maintenance supervisors, tools and die makers, machinists, IT personnel, quality controllers, electricians and welders.

From January to March 2019, foreign investments in approved manufacturing projects rose by 127.0% to RM20.2 billion from RM8.9 billion in the corresponding period last year. The increase reflects the country’s continuous competitiveness as a location of choice for investments. These approved projects are expected to generate strong multiplier effects, which include the growth of domestic companies or engineering supporting industries, cluster development, local sourcing, strengthening of R&D activities and human capital development. The USA (RM11.5 billion), China (RM4.4 billion), Singapore (RM2.2 billion), Japan (0.6 billion), and the British Virgin Islands (RM0.5 billion) accounted for 95.0% of total approved foreign investments in the manufacturing sector.

Two notable investments from the USA were projects from Micron Technology and Jabil Circuit. These companies will be expanding their manufacturing operations in Penang. A notable investment from China was from XSD International Paper, which is projected to drive the development of all related papermaking in the region with its proposed RM2.3 billion of investment. The company plans to cooperate with a local technical university to improve the papermaking skills in Malaysia.

The targeted 3+2 catalytic and high potential growth sub-sectors namely the electrical and electronics (E&E), chemical and chemical products, machinery and equipment, medical devices, and aerospace as identified under the 11th Malaysia Plan contributed 66.14% (RM16.8 billion) to the total approved investments in the manufacturing sector. The E&E industry contributed 92.8 per cent of total investment approved in the 3+2 sectors for the first three months of 2019. Once implemented, these projects will further energise the development and growth of the overall manufacturing sector in Malaysia.

A total of 150 (70%) of the manufacturing projects approved will be located in Selangor (75), Pulau Pinang (41) and Johor (34). In terms of value, Pulau Pinang (RM8.8 billion) benefitted the most from these investments, followed by Kedah (RM7.6 billion) and Johor (RM2.4 billion).

Primary Sector

The primary sector contributed RM2.4 billion or 4.5% to the total approved investments in Q1 2019. Majority of investments were contributed by domestic sources (RM1.4 billion or 58.3%), while foreign investment amounted to RM1.0 billion or 41.7%.

The mining sub-sector, dominated by the oil and gas exploration activities, led with approved investments of RM2.2 billion or 91.7%, followed by plantation and commodities with RM140.0 million and agriculture sub-sector with RM43.5 million.

Conclusion

Following the encouraging numbers of approved investments in Q1 2019, MITI and its agencies particularly MIDA, will continue to assume a strong role in attracting more quality investments as well as facilitating the implementation of approved projects. As to date, MIDA has 471 projects in the pipeline with investments worth RM30.4 billion for the manufacturing and services sectors.

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ABOUT MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal promotion agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Starting operations in 1967 with a relatively small set up of 37 staff, MIDA has grown to become a strong and dynamic organisation of over 700 employees. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA today 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 Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, @OfficialMIDA.

Media Release Q12019 Investment Performance

Siaran Media Q12019 Pelaburan Diluluskan (Mal)

Posted on : 10 June 2019

 

Q1 2019 Approved Investments in the Manufacturing, Services and Primary Sectors Reach RM53.9 Billion FDI in the Manufacturing Sector Soared by 127.0%

Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, today announced an expansion of services in its Global Repair Centre located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Australian Acting High Commissioner to Malaysia Michael Growder, together with officials from the Australian Trade and Investment Commission, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Association of Malaysian Medical Industries (AMMI), Ministry of Health (MOH), KPJ Healthcare University College and other related bodies attended the ceremony to mark the expansion of the facility

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – 18 June 2019: Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH), the global leader in implantable hearing solutions, today announced an expansion of services in its Global Repair Centre located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The Australian Acting High Commissioner to Malaysia Michael Growder, together with officials from the Australian Trade and Investment Commission, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Association of Malaysian Medical Industries (AMMI), Ministry of Health (MOH), KPJ Healthcare University College and other related bodies attended the ceremony to mark the expansion of the facility.

The Cochlear Global Repair Centre was established in 2015, consolidating eight centres around the globe into one world-class facility. Since its opening, the Global Repair Centre has delivered more efficient, faster and consistent external sound processor repairs for customers, enabling a better customer experience and even greater processor reliability. Cochlear is now expanding its services to assemble replacement Nucleus 6 sound processors, where required, for existing customers covered by Cochlear’s processor warranty.

In acknowledging the positive contributions it brings, Dato’ Abdul Majid Ahmad Khan, Chairman of MIDA, said “Cochlear is an example of the type of investments we want to see coming into Malaysia. We are pleased to note that the company has employed 195 Malaysians so far. Cochlear’s effort to enhance the skills of these local employees, especially in the field of hearing implants, is commendable whereby these employees had undergone specific trainings in Malaysia and Australia. We believe that these local talents will gain so much experience from the transfer of technology and know-how.”

Cochlear Malaysia is an important part of the Company’s global business. Beginning with a small IT team in 2010, today Cochlear Malaysia is a thriving service centre which hosts the Global Repair Centre, Corporate Shared Services (including IT, customer service and procurement), the Company’s regional sales team, and a small research and development function.

“Leveraging on the availability of the established supporting industries conforming to the world-class standard, we trust that Cochlear will be able to enjoy the many advantages Malaysia offers. MIDA will continue to be Cochlear’s partner and provide our full support to facilitate its business in the country,” added Dato’ Abdul Majid.

“Kuala Lumpur has proven to be a great place to centralise our global, support services,” said Greg Bodkin, SVP Supply Chain & Operational Excellence, Cochlear. “We have significantly grown our workforce with the right skills to support our business globally. The legal and regulatory environment is pro-business, tax rules are attractive and English-language skills are abundant. For our Global Repair Centre, we’ve been able to hire local engineers and electronics technicians, who repair the sound processors for customers around the world and deliver to Cochlear’s global standard of quality.”

“We’re a growing company in a growing industry,” Bodkin added. “As we expand our global supply chain capacity to support this growth, Malaysia is and will increasingly be an important part of our global operations network.”

Dato’ Abdul Majid also said, “The medical devices industry has been identified as one of the high potential growth industries under the 11th Malaysia Plan due to its strong linkages to other manufacturing subsectors. Therefore, we view this project as a catalyst to boost the development of the medical device ecosystem in the country and hope that it will attract other global medical device industry players.”

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About Cochlear Limited (ASX: COH)

Cochlear is the global leader in implantable hearing solutions. The company has a global workforce of more than 3,500 people and invests more than AUD$160 million each year in research and development. Products include cochlear implants, bone conduction implants and acoustic implants, which healthcare professionals use to treat a range of moderate to profound types of hearing loss. Since 1981, Cochlear has provided more than 550,000 implantable devices, helping people of all ages, in more than 100 countries, to hear.

www.cochlear.com

Media Analysts/Investors

Jennifer Stevenson 

Head of Corporate Communications 

Ph: (+61) 2 9611 6959 

[email protected]

Analysts/Investors

Kristina Devon

Head of Investor Relations

Ph: (+61) 2 9611 6691

[email protected]

 

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal promotion agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Starting operations in 1967 with a relatively small set up of 37 staff, MIDA has grown to become a strong and dynamic organisation of over 700 employees. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA today 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 Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

For further information, please contact:

Ms. Balkish Mohd Yasin

Director, Life Sciences & Medical Technology Division

03-2267 3458 | [email protected]

Download:

Chairman’ of MIDA Speech_Official Opening of Cochlear’s Global Repair centre

Cochlear Announces Expansion of Global Repair Centre for Implantable Hearing Solutions in Kuala Lumpur

The Conference on Tourism Potential in Sabah and Sarawak organised by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) on 18 June 2019 at the MIDA headquarters received an encouraging response with over 80 participants from the Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners (MAHO), Malaysian Association of Amusement Themepark and Family Attractions (MAATFA), hoteliers, tourist attraction operators, business chambers among others

18 June 2019, Kuala Lumpur – The Conference on Tourism Potential in Sabah and Sarawak organised by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) on 18 June 2019 at the MIDA headquarters received an encouraging response with over 80 participants from the Malaysian Association of Hotel Owners (MAHO), Malaysian Association of Amusement Themepark and Family Attractions (MAATFA), hoteliers, tourist attraction operators, business chambers among others.

This inaugural event was an effort with the cooperation of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC), Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment Sabah (KePKAS), Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Sarawak (MTACYS), Sabah Economic Development and Investment Authority (SEDIA), Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), MAHO and MAATFA.

Madam Catherine Ridu, Senior Director of the Services Sector Development Division at Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI), during her welcoming remarks said “With the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2020 campaign, Malaysia hopes to target 30 million international tourists and RM100 billion tourist receipts. There are many exciting opportunities for our domestic tourism stakeholders, especially those in Sabah and Sarawak, to support this landmark campaign. Therefore, it is crucial for us to strategically position our domestic tourism industry and maximise its capacity to propel the country’s economic transformation.”

In 2018, the services sector continued to be the cornerstone of the nation’s economic growth, contributing a total approved investment of RM103.4 billion or 51.3% of the total approved investments for the year. Of this amount, the 63 hotel and tourism projects approved with investments of RM4.6 billion last year projected creation of almost 4,000 new jobs.

This conference focused on ensuring that the domestic tourism industry players were well informed about the hospitality ecosystems in Malaysia andto encourage new investments into Sabah and Sarawak. As such, it featured presentations by the Healthcare, Education and Hospitality Division of MIDA, MOTAC and MIMOS Berhad, several panel discussions and one-to-one networking session between the participants and MIDA, MOTAC, KePKAS, MTACYS, SEDIA, MyCEB, MAHO and MAATFA.

Mr. Ahmad Khairuddin Abdul Rahim, Senior Executive Director of Strategic Planning and Development, MIDA echoed the message of Madam Catherine Ridu for domestic players to be attuned to gaps and opportunities present in the market and further elaborated saying “MIDA has been looking beyond the common understanding of tourism as being limited to vacation activities only. We have been actively pursuing investments and development in niche tourism areas such as ecotourism, halal tourism and cultural tourism. Some exciting international sports tourism events scheduled in 2019, namely the TMBT Ultra Trail Marathon andBorneo International Yachting Challenge, is set to attract more tourists arrivals into Sabah and Sarawak.”

In preparation for Visit Malaysia 2020, MIDA hopes that this event will promote more investments and initiatives in the hotel and tourism industry in Sabah and Sarawak to ensure the growth and sustainability of the domestic tourism industry. Additionally, MIDA will continue to organise similar series of engagements to further promote the growth of local hospitality industry.

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ABOUT MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal promotion agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Starting operations in 1967 with a relatively small set up of 37 staff, MIDA has grown to become an active and dynamic organisation of over 700 employees. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA today 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 Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

For more information, please contact:

Ms Manjit Kaur Balkar Singh

Director, Healthcare, Education and Hospitality Division, MIDA

Tel: 03- 2267 3509 | Email: [email protected]

Download:

Opening Remarks MITI_Conference on Tourism Potential In Sabah And Sarawak

Welcome Remarks MIDA_Conference On Tourism Potential In Sabah And Sarawak

Posted on : 18 June 2019

Hospitality Ecosystems in Malaysia: Sabah and Sarawak A Vibrant Tourist Destination

The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) organised the Sarawak Domestic Investment Seminar 2019 today in collaboration with Ministry for Industrial and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak (MIED) as a platform to update the industry players especially in East Malaysia region on the latest policies and facilities that are available

26 June 2019, Kuching, Sarawak – The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) organised the Sarawak Domestic Investment Seminar 2019 today in collaboration with Ministry for Industrial and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak (MIED) as a platform to update the industry players especially in East Malaysia region on the latest policies and facilities that are available.

The Sarawak Domestic Investment Seminar 2019 was graced by YB Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah Ali Hassan, Deputy Chief Minister of Sarawak. During his speech, it was emphasised that “The state has been conducting many outreach programmes, especially towards building the capabilities of our local industry players which consists mainly of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Despite all our continuous efforts, there is still a lack of awareness among the local business community regarding the various facilities and support provided by the state and federal Government.”

Moreover, he added that “In today’s globalised world, competition is more intense, coming not just from developed economies but also from the developing countries. Therefore, the Government needs to make every effort to ensure the readiness of our local industry players in enhancing and sustaining their competitiveness. I look forward to more local SMEs going into high tech and high value-added ventures. We cannot continue to rely on low cost, low tech and labour-intensive strategies to grow our industries. Together, let us build a business landscape that is innovative, creative and sustainable, focusing on the future.”

Mr. Arham Abd. Rahman, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of MIDA in his welcoming remarks, also mentioned that “The Government is providing more opportunities for companies to move towards Industry 4.0 through various initiatives. This includes incentive packages such as the Pioneer Status (PS), Investment Tax Allowance (ITA) and the Domestic Investment Strategic Fund (DISF). There are also tax incentives for the production of robotics; the Automation Capital Allowance (Automation CA) to encourage automation in the manufacturing industry; and the Soft Loan Scheme for Automation and Modernisation (SLAM) to enhance manufacturing processes, upgrade production capability and capacity, and diversify into higher value-added activities.With these facilities in place, companies’ particularly domestic players need to take full advantage of the facilities available. We urge not only to adopt automation and other smart technologies, but also to invest in their talent by retraining the workforce and undertake collaborations with the many training institutions that are already available in the country.”

As of 2018, a total of 770 projects worth RM82.7 billion have been implemented in Sarawak. These projects have created more than 104,000 employment opportunities in the state, mainly in the natural gas, chemical and chemical products, basic metal products, electronics and electrical products, wood and wood products sectors.

“With so much development happening in the state, there is certainly more room for expansion and diversification activities, particularly in new growth areas. We encourage more companies to take advantage of the established ecosystem and facilities that Sarawak has to offer” added Mr. Arham.

The Sarawak Domestic Investment Seminar 2019 was well attended by over 200 participants from various fields, including government agencies, manufacturers, service providers and potential investors. The seminar featured panel sessions by a broad range of speakers from the MATRADE, MIDF, EXIM Bank, MPC, Standards Malaysia, SIRIM and MIDA.

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About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal promotion agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Starting operations in 1967 with a relatively small set up of 37 staff, MIDA has grown to become a strong and dynamic organisation of over 700 employees. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA today 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 Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

For more information, please contact:

Mr. Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid

Director, Domestic Investment and Supply Chain Coordination Division, MIDA

Tel.: 03-2267 6633 | Email: [email protected]

Download:

Welcoming Remark by DCEO I MIDA_Domestic Investment Seminar Sarawak 2019

Keynote Address by YB DCM_Domestic Investment Seminar Sarawak 2019

Posted on : 26 June 2019

 

Domestic Investment Seminar in Sarawak : MIDA Continues To Create More Business Opportunities for Investors

Construction of new semiconductors test center starts 2021

Bosch, a leading global supplier of technology and services, has announced the signing of a Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) with the Penang Development Corporation for land in the Batu Kawan Industrial Park in Penang. The company plans to build a manufacturing facility there focusing on the business of semiconductor components and sensor testing. The construction of the plant is scheduled to begin in 2021 and completion of the production area and first series production to commence in 2023. Some 400 associates are expected to work at the new facility. 

The building will sit on an approximately 100,000 sqm of land and will primarily focus on the final testing of components manufactured at Bosch Automotive Electronics’ fab in Dresden, Germany. These components comprise semiconductors used in airbag systems or engine control units, to name a few. The plant will also house R&D and training facilities. 

“With the long-term forecasts for growth of semiconductor component quantities, coupled with the front-end production in Bosch’s Dresden facility in Germany, capacity expansion is required for the back-end production, which is the final testing phase of semiconductors and sensors. This new site is also intended to strengthen the matured eco-system for the semiconductor industry here in Penang,” said Simon Song, managing director of Bosch Malaysia. 

The semiconductor business at Bosch is part of the Automotive Electronics division within the Mobility Solutions business sector, with its headquarters located in Reutlingen, Germany. Other locations which Bosch Automotive Electronics is already testing components as intended for the facility in Penang are Reutlingen and Suzhou, China.

Dato’ Azman Mahmud, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) said, “Bosch’s commitment in complementing Malaysia’s electrical and electronics (E&E) ecosystem is a true reflection of the company’s continued confidence in Malaysia as a preferred destination for long-term growth. This project will also serve as a catalyst in developin

g a higher level of expertise through the adoption of Industry 4.0 and production automation in the industry.” 

Penang, Malaysia as the preferred location for facility 

The final testing facility in Penang will be the first of its kind for Bosch in Southeast Asia, and was chosen in the region for several reasons. First of all, there is a high level of semiconductor knowledge in the region. The proximity to business partners is another advantage. Malaysia and especially Penang have the ability to manufacture economically, even under cost pressure. According to statistics, Malaysia contributes ten percent of back-end semiconductor output globally, among which eight percent is contributed by Penang. 

“The State government is pleased to further strengthen our relationship with Bosch, one of the eight pioneers that charted Penang’s industrialisation five decades ago,” said Right Honourable Mr. Chow Kon Yew, Chief Minister of Penang. “Bosch new investment ventures implies the company’s confidence in its technology for the future and Penang’s ecosystem is capable and sustainable in fulfilling the stringent requirements of the automotive industry.” 

Penang is already home to three existing Bosch manufacturing sites and research and development offices since 1972. Robert Bosch (M) Sdn Bhd, Robert Bosch Power Tools Sdn Bhd, and Robert Bosch Automotive Steering Sdn Bhd produce car multimedia systems, power tools and automotive steering respectively. This is the largest number of manufacturing facilities in a single country for Bosch in Southeast Asia. To-date, Bosch’s workforce in Penang is more than 4,500 employees. 

Contact person for media inquiries: 

Zairynn Yazmi 

Corporate Communications Robert Bosch (South East Asia) Pte. Ltd. 

DID: +65(6)571-2059 

Email: [email protected]

Press Release – Bosch

Bosch Malaysia to set up new plant in Penang

B. Braun, one of the largest medical technology companies in the world, headquartered in Germany, announced the expansion of its portfolio of testing capabilities for healthcare solutions related to intravenous access, surgical technologies, intravenous systems, central venous puncture and pain control; in Penang

Penang, 2 June 2020 – B. Braun, one of the largest medical technology companies in the world, headquartered in Germany, announced the expansion of its portfolio of testing capabilities for healthcare solutions related to intravenous access, surgical technologies, intravenous systems, central venous puncture and pain control; in Penang.

Prior to the expansion, the Global Test Centre based in Penang had only supported 200,000 scientific measurements per annum for medical devices related to intravenous access and drug delivery systems. Due to the proven competencies, strong product knowledge and efficiency displayed by the local team of Malaysian engineers, the volume of product testing has been tripled to more than 600,000 scientific measurements per annum. Furthermore, medical devices for infusion systems, central venous puncture and pain control, which are being manufactured in Germany, have also been added to the portfolio being tested in Penang.

The Global Test Centre conducts design validation, discovery and shelf life testing, as well as failure analysis; and features state-of-the art test equipment and a fully integrated data management system, which is crucial to ensure the safety and efficacy of medical devices, used in the treatment of patients around the world. All products are tested to ensure adherence to the stringent requirements of the European Medical Device Regulation (EU MDR), United States Food & Drug Administration (US FDA) and other recognised regulatory authorities.

Dato’ Azman Mahmud, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), said “The Malaysian medical device industry has indeed showed great promise in creating high quality employment, reinforcing the domestic supply chain ecosystem, and generating greater export value. We have a strong presence of established supporting industries conforming to world-class standards that support the medical devices industry in the country. The nation’s legacy expertise in precision electronics has also provided our workforce the requisite skills in quality management and precision. We trust that these qualities draw world leaders in healthcare including B. Braun to continuously embrace the abundant business opportunities in Malaysia today.”

Mr. Lam Chee Hong, President of B. Braun Asia Pacific said, “For more than 180 years, B. Braun has protected and improved the health of people around the world, and we have built a strong reputation and trust among healthcare professionals for the safety and quality of our products and services. Staffed by a proven team of highly competent Malaysians, the Global Test Centre in Penang will further ensure that patients everywhere will continue to receive medical devices of the highest global standards.”

Occupying a 193,285 square metre (47.8 acres) site in Penang’s Free Industrial Zone, B. Braun Medical Industries is one of the largest production sites of the Group, with over 7,600 employees. Established in 1972, B. Braun is a pioneer foreign investor in the northern state, which has evolved into the nexus for the medical device industry in Malaysia. The site houses four production plants manufacturing intravenous access solutions, pharmaceutical products and surgical instruments for global markets; as well as the Group’s global Centre of Excellence for Intravenous Access with full R&D capabilities, and B. Braun’s Asia Pacific regional headquarters.

-End –

For more information, please contact:

Ms. Balkish Mohd Yasin

[email protected]

DL: +603 2267 3458                                               

 

Ms. Joanna Ng

[email protected]

DL: +604 632 4399                                                  

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of International 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 Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube channel.

Posted on : 02 June 2020

B. Braun Expands Its Global Test Centre for Medical Devices in Penang, Proving Malaysia’s Capabilities in Scientific Measurement

Kuala Lumpur, 16 June 2020 – The Licensing Officer of the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) has agreed to grant an extension of the project implementation period for companies, which have been accorded Manufacturing Licences under the Industrial Coordination Act, 1975. This is part of the pro-active measures undertaken by the Government in ensuring that the Malaysian economic sectors remain competitive despite the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Under the normal procedure, licensed companies are required to implement their approved projects within a period, as stipulated in their Approval Letter of Manufacturing Licence. With the implementation of this relaxation mechanism, an approved manufacturing company will be automatically given an extension of 12 months to implement their projects. The 12-month extension period will commence from the end date of the implementation period stated in the approval letter.

This automatic extension shall only be applicable and available to companies that have obtained Interim Approvals or Manufacturing Licences under the Industrial Coordination Act, 1975 from MITI, and have yet to implement their projects.

To enjoy this automatic extension, companies are required to apply to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), a government agency under MITI, by scanning the QR Code provided herewith. Companies can submit their applications to MIDA from 16 June 2020 until 31 May 2021.

https://forms.gle/dvPMrzVE9EWCtKnC7

The Government hopes that this measure will support and stimulate the growth of the manufacturing sector that has been affected by the pandemic. 

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For more information, please contact:

Ms. Zakiah Sajidan
Director, Compliance and Monitoring and Licensing Monitoring Section, MIDA
Email: [email protected]
Tel : 03-2267 3500

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of International 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 Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube channel .

Media Release Extension Of Project Implementation Period for The Manufacturing Sector

Extension of Project Implementation Period for The Manufacturing Sector

Standard Chartered Malaysia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) to attract targeted global investments into Malaysia

11 June 2020, Kuala Lumpur – Standard Chartered Malaysia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) to attract targeted global investments into Malaysia.

These sectors include high-value, high-technology and high-impact investments such as electrical and electronics, machinery and equipment, medical devices, aerospace, renewable energy and consumer technology. The MoU, through Standard Chartered Malaysia’s local expertise and global reach, enables potential foreign investors to gain access to banking services and foreign direct investment advisory.

Dato’ Azman Mahmud, Chief Executive Officer of MIDA, says that the sectors’ ability in attracting quality investment augurs well for the country’s economy as the market looks to get back in shape post the COVID- 19 pandemic. “Public and private sector collaborations are more important now than ever to achieve our objectives and bring ourselves forward in this new normal. Despite the multiple challenges faced, Malaysia remains resilient. Our diversified economic structure and the sound track record of macroeconomic management continues to be conducive in supporting the country’s economic fundamentals going forward. The sustainable and progressive development of industries in Malaysia has also strengthened the nation’s position as the best place to invest. MIDA looks forward to a successful collaboration with Standard Chartered to attract more companies to choose Malaysia and expand their business here.”

Malaysia’s electrical and electronics industry today accounts for 10% of the global back-end semiconductor output. MIDA currently has a pipeline of investment projects worth about RM37.8 billion with many foreign electrical and electronics firms looking to relocate their businesses to the country to diversify production. To encourage foreign investors to set up their businesses in Malaysia, the Government is also offering a zero- tax rate for up to 15 years under its recently-announced Short-Term Economic Recovery Plan.

Mr Abrar A. Anwar, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Malaysia said, “Having operated in Malaysia for 145 years, we remain as committed as ever to facilitate the economic growth of the country. Our strong presence in Asia, Africa and the Middle East is an important enabler for foreign investments and will go a long way in supporting companies to venture into Malaysia. We are able to

leverage our extensive network, strong product capability, service innovation, as well as access to capital markets and funding, to help clients succeed in establishing businesses in Malaysia.”

Standard Chartered recently won the Best Trade and Supply Chain House in Malaysia award at the Corporate Treasurer Awards 2019 as well as Best in Treasury and Working Capital (Large Local Corporates) and Best Service Provider (Liquidity Management) in Malaysia at The Asset Triple A Treasury, Trade, SSC and Risk Management Awards 2020. As the banking industry undergoes one of its biggest transformations, the awards is a recognition of the Bank’s suite of products and services that continue to be relevant to businesses today.

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For media enquiries, please contact:

Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid Director, Foreign Investment Promotion Division  Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)  +603 2267 6633 [email protected]

Geraldine Tan Head, Corporate Communications and CCIB Marketing  Standard Chartered Malaysia +6012 907 1740 [email protected]

Note to Editors 

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of International 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.myand follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube channel.

Standard Chartered Malaysia

Standard Chartered Bank, a member of the Standard Chartered Group was established in Malaysia in 1875. As Malaysia’s first bank, Standard Chartered leads the way through product innovation, consistent and strong growth performance and sustainability initiatives. The Bank provides a comprehensive range of financial solutions to corporates, institutions and individuals through its network of branches across Malaysia. The Bank has an Islamic banking subsidiary, Standard Chartered Saadiq; a global shared services centre, Standard Chartered Global Business Services; a sales arm, Price Solutions and an offshore facility in Labuan. Standard Chartered employs over 7,000 employees in all its Malaysian operations.

Standard Chartered

We are a leading international banking group, with a presence in 60 of the world’s most dynamic markets, and serving clients in a further 85. Our purpose is to drive commerce and prosperity through our unique diversity, and our heritage and values are expressed in our brand promise, Here for good.

Standard Chartered PLC is listed on the London and Hong Kong Stock Exchanges as well as the Bombay and National Stock Exchanges in India.

For more stories and expert opinions please visit Insights at sc.com. Follow Standard Chartered on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

Standard Chartered collaborates with MIDA to recharge Malaysia’s economy

DexCom, Inc. (Nasdaq: DXCM), a global leader in continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for people with diabetes headquartered in San Diego, California, has chosen Batu Kawan Industrial Park as their third manufacturing site. This new site, the first outside of the United States (US), will help increase the production of Dexcom’s industry-leading CGM systems.

YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, Senior Minister and Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI), in welcoming Dexcom into Malaysia’s medical devices ecosystem, said, “This is an excellent example of how global companies are making their decisions based on investment fundamentals. Despite the current pandemic, Malaysia remains an attractive investment destination due to its diversified economy and comprehensive ecosystem. These offer companies the potential to realise many business opportunities.” 

“We are confident that Dexcom will benefit from our solid ecosystem backed by strong supporting industries, pragmatic investor-friendly business policies as well as global conformity-assessment bodies that are already present in the country. We hope that Dexcom’s investment here will be a boost for leaders within the industry and its supply chain network to choose Malaysia as their investment destination,” Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin said. 

He added, the industry shows great promise in generating high-income jobs, building greater export value, and reinforcing the domestic supply chain ecosystem. “It will be a boon to our industry for new investments to support our local businesses through technology transfer and integrating our local vendors into their global supply chain,” Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin said. 

Dexcom’s proposed manufacturing facility will create significant job additions over the next ten years, including roles in manufacturing, facilities management as well as manufacturing related research and development (R&D) and will be designed for potential growth and expansion over time. 

Mr. Quentin Blackford, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer at Dexcom said, “We recently made the decision to develop our third manufacturing site in the Batu Kawan Industrial Park, Malaysia to support our continued growth.” 

“After vetting numerous potential locations, we determined this site in Malaysia is a great fit for our future manufacturing needs. The growing awareness of Dexcom CGM and our belief in the significant growth opportunity for our technology are driving the need for expanded manufacturing. This new site is supplemental to our existing manufacturing facilities and will help Dexcom meet the needs of global demand for CGM for years to come,” Blackford added. 

With capabilities of producing high value-added and technologically advanced products such as cardiac pacemakers, stents, orthopedic implantable devices, electro-medical, therapeutic and, monitoring devices, Malaysia is well-positioned to be the manufacturing hub for medical devices in Asia. 

As of 2019, a total of 402 medical devices projects with investments worth RM20.5 billion (USD5.6 billion) have been implemented in Malaysia and created more than 76,500 jobs for the country. For 2019 alone, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) approved 31 medical devices manufacturing projects worth RM3.98 billion (USD0.97 billion). 

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About MITI 

MITI is the key driver in making Malaysia the preferred destination for quality investments and enhancing the nation’s rising status as a globally competitive trading nation. Its objectives and roles are oriented towards ensuring Malaysia’s rapid economic development and help achieve the country’s stated goal of becoming a developed nation. 

About MIDA 

MIDA is the Government’s principal investment promotion and development agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Starting operations in 1967 with a relatively small set up of 37 staff, MIDA has grown to become a strong and dynamic organisation of over 700 employees. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA today 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 Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube channel. 

For more information, please contact: 

Ms. Balkish Mohd Yasin 

Director, Life Sciences & Medical Technology Division, MIDA 

Tel.: 03-2267 3458 | Email: [email protected]

MIDA Release Dexcom

Posted on : 24 June 2020

US-Based Dexcom Chooses Malaysia To Open Its Third Continuous Glucose Monitoring System Manufacturing Site