KUALA LUMPUR: MKS Instruments, Inc today announced that it will build a Super Centre factory in Penang, Malaysia to support wafer fabrication equipment production in the region and globally.
MKS provides foundational technology solutions for leading edge semiconductor manufacturing, electronics and packaging, and specialty industrial applications.
In a joint statement by Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida), InvestPenang and MKS said the development plan is to construct the new facility in three phases, with groundbreaking expected to start in early 2025.
Chief Minister of Penang Chow Kon Yeow said Penang, with its well-developed industrial ecosystem, has the capacities and capabilities to support the needs of industrial players in next-generation technologies and growth strategies.
Aligning with Penang's ambition to move up the global semiconductor value chain, MKS Instruments unlocks opportunities in semiconductor manufacturing, which creates more high-value jobopportunities for the local workforce, he said. "I am delighted that MKS Instruments chose to locate its new facility here and I hope the company will be able to reap many benefits from itsoperation in Penang, the Silicon Valley of the East," he said in the statement today.
Mida chief executive officer Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said MKS Instruments' decision to build a new facility in Malaysia underscores the nation's growing reputation as a premier destination for advanced technology investments.
This new facility highlights Malaysia's attractiveness as a strategic hub for innovation and manufacturing, reflecting the company's confidence inour highly skilled workforce and favourable business environment.
He added that Malaysia is blessed with a rich stream of talent and resources, making it an ideal location for high-tech companies like MKS Instruments to expand their operations.
Mida believes the company's activities in the semiconductor market will significantly enhance the capability of manufacturing processes in Malaysia, aligning with the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030.
It believes the investment marks a pivotal step in its work to build a stronger future for Malaysia's advanced manufacturing sector.
"We look forward to a successful collaboration and invite other industry leaders to choose Malaysia as their preferred investment destination. Together, we will drive mutual growth and further enhance Malaysia's rapidly expanding high-techecosystem," he added.
MKS president and chief executive officer Dr. John T.C. Lee said MKS has a proud history of innovations and inventions that have shaped the evolution ofthe key industries it serves.
"With close proximity to our customers and suppliers and robust technology infrastructure, Penang is home to a strong semiconductor ecosystem. Expanding our business in Malaysia is an important milestone for our company as we seek to continue to enhance our capabilities as a leader across a broad array of semiconductor manufacturing applications," said John.
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