SINGAPORE-based Galatek Technologies (Galatek) marked a significant milestone in its regional growth journey today with the official opening of its manufacturing, assembly and delivery facility in Penang.
Located in the Perai industrial zone, the new facility serves as Galatek’s first manufacturing footprint in Malaysia and underscores the company’s confidence in Penang as a strategic hub for advanced technology and industrial innovation.
Specialising in advanced automation and vision-AI solutions for the semiconductor and life sciences sectors, Galatek’s latest investment is poised to strengthen its ability to serve customers across Southeast Asia and global markets.
The facility forms part of the company’s broader regional expansion strategy and long-term commitment to developing local manufacturing capabilities, nurturing talent and fostering supply chain partnerships within Malaysia.
Backed by prominent investors, including Granite Asia, Galatek has invested approximately USD2 million (RM9.4 million) in its initial Malaysian operations.
The company has also unveiled ambitious expansion plans, targeting a total investment of USD100 million in Penang over the next five years as it scales up production capacity and operational capabilities.
Galatek Technologies chief executive officer David Tian said Malaysia offers an ideal environment for advanced manufacturing, supported by a highly skilled workforce, well-established semiconductor supply chains and a business-friendly ecosystem.
“Penang was selected as a strategic location for our regional manufacturing and delivery operations because of its deep industry expertise and strong connectivity to global markets.
“The opening of this facility marks an important step in Galatek’s long-term development strategy in Southeast Asia.
“Beyond manufacturing, we aim to build local engineering capabilities, expand collaboration with Malaysian suppliers and contribute to the continued growth of the country’s high-technology industries,” he said during the opening ceremony.
The facility was officially opened by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Also present were InvestPenang chief executive officer Datuk Loo Lee Lian, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) Penang director Muhammad Ghaddaffi Sardar Mohamed, Galatek Technologies chief technology officer Ryan Zeng and Granite Asia senior managing partner Jenny Lee.
According to Tian, the future of industrial and scientific innovation will increasingly be driven by the convergence of artificial intelligence, automation and advanced equipment systems.
“We believe the next generation of industrial and scientific innovation will rely heavily on the integration of AI, automation and advanced equipment technologies.
“Penang provides an exceptional environment for us to develop these capabilities and serve global customers from Malaysia,” he said.
Meanwhile, Chow congratulated Galatek on the opening of its new facility, describing the investment as a strong endorsement of Penang’s growing reputation as a technology and innovation hub.
“Today’s occasion is more than the launch of a new manufacturing facility; it represents the type of investment that will shape Penang’s next phase of industrial growth.
“As a company specialising in AI-enabled automation, semiconductor equipment and life sciences technologies, Galatek brings capabilities that are increasingly critical in a rapidly evolving industrial landscape.
“Its decision to establish manufacturing, assembly and delivery operations in Penang not only strengthens its regional footprint but also reinforces Penang’s position as a preferred destination for technology-driven industries,” Chow said.
He added that the facility will support advanced equipment manufacturing, system integration, assembly, testing and delivery for customers in strategic sectors, including semiconductors, advanced electronics, life sciences and sustainable energy.
More importantly, Chow noted that Galatek’s investment reflects a long-term commitment to Penang’s industrial ecosystem.
“Galatek plans to invest a further USD60 million over the next three years, bringing its total investment in Penang to USD100 million within five years.
“Alongside this expansion, the company’s Malaysian workforce is expected to grow from between 20 and 30 employees in its first year of operations to approximately 100 employees over the next five years, creating high-value employment opportunities for engineers, technicians and skilled professionals,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhammad Iqbal Hamdan
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud