Penang: Galatek Technologies (Galatek) has opened its manufacturing, assembly, and delivery facility in Penang, further strengthening Malaysia's position as a strategic hub for advanced manufacturing and semiconductor industry development. Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow announced that with an initial investment of US$2 million (RM9.4 million), the facility would support advanced equipment manufacturing, system integration, assembly, testing, and delivery for customers across key sectors, including semiconductors, advanced electronics, life sciences, and sustainable energy.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chow emphasized that Galatek's presence, a global provider of AI-enabled automation, semiconductor equipment, and life science technologies, reflects Penang's economic direction as the state strengthens its position in industries driven by automation, AI, digitalization, and advanced manufacturing technologies. 'Galatek's decision to establish manufacturing, assembly, and delivery operations strengthens its regional presence and also reinforces Penang's position as a preferred destination for technology-driven industries,' he said during the facility's opening ceremony at the Perai Industrial Park.
Galatek's CEO David Tian, InvestPenang CEO Datuk Loo Lee Lian, and Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) Penang director Muhammad Ghaddaffi Sardar Mohamed were also present at the event. Chow highlighted that Galatek's investment reflects the company's long-term commitment to Penang, with plans to invest an additional US$60 million over the next three years, bringing the total investment in the state to US$100 million within five years.
He further detailed that Galatek's Malaysian workforce is expected to expand from about 20 to 30 employees in its first year of operations to around 100 within five years, creating high-quality employment opportunities for engineers, technicians, and other skilled professionals. Investments such as Galatek's are strategically important, Chow noted, as companies operating at the intersection of advanced manufacturing, automation, and engineering solutions contribute to economic growth and enhance the state's technological capabilities.
Chow also welcomed Galatek's commitment to increasing localization and strengthening engagement with local suppliers and partners. He encouraged the company to explore collaboration opportunities through the Penang Advanced Technology and Engineering Campus to support talent development and innovation within the semiconductor ecosystem.
Meanwhile, Tian stated that Penang was chosen as the company's regional manufacturing and delivery hub due to its robust industrial ecosystem and strong connectivity to global markets. He described the facility's opening as a significant milestone in Galatek's long-term expansion strategy across Southeast Asia. "The company aims to build local engineering capabilities, expand collaboration with Malaysian suppliers, and contribute to the continued growth of the country's high-technology industries. The next generation of industrial and scientific innovation will increasingly rely on the convergence of AI, automation, and advanced equipment systems. Penang provides an exceptional environment for us to build those capabilities and serve global customers from Malaysia," he added.