B. BRAUN Medical Industries Sdn Bhd (BMI) has committed RM18 million towards the establishment of its Technical Academy in Penang, strengthening the state’s position as a regional hub for technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
The B. Braun Technical Academy was officially opened on Friday, marking a key milestone in the company’s long-term commitment to talent development and skills training in Malaysia.
Officiating the opening was Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, who said the academy reflects the strong partnership between the Penang government and industry players.
“Penang has enjoyed a strong partnership with B. Braun for over five decades, and the company has consistently believed that people are at the heart of sustainable industrial growth,” he said.
Jagdeep said the academy is a strategic step in strengthening Malaysia’s industrial capability and future workforce.
“With the establishment of this Technical Academy, we are taking another important step together to develop local talent and support advanced manufacturing,” he said.
He added that the demand for skilled workers in Penang has grown rapidly.
“Last year, the industry needed about 60,000 skilled workers. Today, that number has increased to around 150,000 technicians and engineers,” he said.
Jagdeep said meeting this demand requires strong cooperation from major industry players.
“We cannot do this alone. We need companies like B. Braun to help train the future workforce,” he said.
He also announced that the Penang government will strengthen collaboration with the company.
“I am pleased to inform that the state will invite a representative from B. Braun to sit on the Penang Talent Council to contribute industry perspectives and practical experience,” he said.
The academy is designed as a central hub for technical development and cultural transformation, based on the German Dual Vocational Training (GDVT) model.
It offers training in areas such as mechatronics, fundamentals of pneumatics and specialised technical courses to upskill employees and prepare a future-ready workforce.
To date, B. Braun has invested more than RM2.1 million in the academy, with RM4 million allocated for 2026 and further investments planned annually until 2030.
The academy has already trained 450 graduates through programmes such as GDVT, manufacturing specialist training and critical station training, in collaboration with the FutureTech Academy (formerly known as Penang Skills Development Centre).
Jagdeep said the Penang government will continue to support initiatives that strengthen education, skills training and public-private partnerships.
“Penang is not stagnant. We are always moving forward, and talent development is key to our growth,” he said.
B. Braun Asia Pacific president Lam Chee Hong said the academy is a long-term investment in people and the country’s industrial future.
“This academy aligns closely with the government’s vision to strengthen TVET and prepare the workforce for highly advanced manufacturing,” he said.
“As industries become more technology-driven, adaptable talent will be critical to remain competitive,” he said.
