Aixtron strengthens Penang as regional semiconductor hub

The recent investment by German technology firm Aixtron SE in Penang, Malaysia, is poised to significantly bolster the state's status as a premier semiconductor hub in the region. The company's new manufacturing facility, located in Bandar Cassia Technology Park, represents a substantial 'greenfield' project spanning 3.44 hectares. This development will feature an integrated complex, including a three-story office building, advanced high-tech cleanroom facilities, and specialized logistics areas.

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Pulau Pinang kini sedang melonjak ke tahap lebih tinggi dalam rantaian nilai global. Justeru, kehadiran pelaburan seperti Aixtron akan membawa limpahan teknologi yang positif kepada ekosistem industri negeri

Penang's Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow, welcomed the high-impact investment, emphasizing its potential to reinforce the local supply chain and elevate the state's standing within the global value chain. He noted that Penang is ascending to new heights in the global value chain, and investments like Aixtron's will introduce positive technological spillover effects into the state's industrial ecosystem.

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penubuhan pangkalan pembuatan dan kejuruteraan di Pulau Pinang membuka ruang kerjasama jangka panjang dengan pemain industri tempatan.

Aixtron's CEO and President, Felix Grawert, stated that establishing a manufacturing and engineering base in Penang opens avenues for long-term collaboration with local industry players. The company aims to contribute to Malaysia's semiconductor ecosystem, particularly in compound semiconductors that enhance energy efficiency and data communication for artificial intelligence technologies. The facility is designed modularly for phased expansion based on market demand and will support the production of 100mm, 150mm, and 200mm wafers. The initial phase is projected to create around 450 jobs, with half in engineering and R&D, and the remainder in assembly and manufacturing. Aixtron also expressed interest in collaborating with the Penang Automation, Testing, and Equipment (ATE) Campus development to strengthen local capabilities and provide localization pathways for multinational corporations.

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Untuk fasa pertama, projek tersebut dijangka mewujudkan kira-kira 450 peluang pekerjaan dengan separuh daripadanya melibatkan bidang kejuruteraan serta penyelidikan dan pembangunan (R&D), manakala selebihnya dalam pemasangan dan pembuatan