SOUTH Korean semiconductor giant, Simmtech Holdings Inc., through its Malaysia-based subsidiary, Sustio Sdn Bhd, has officially expanded its presence in Penang with the completion of its second operations facility in the Batu Kawan Industrial Park (BKIP).
The RM326 million phase two expansion features cutting-edge and advanced technologies in printed circuit boards (PCBs), pushing the boundaries of what is possible in electronic design and manufacturing, and enabling the development of smaller, faster, and more powerful devices.
Semtech Co. Ltd chief executive officer Jeffery Chun said since the company’s inception in Batu Kawan three years ago, Sustio has invested approximately RM750 million to develop Southeast Asia’s first advanced manufacturing facility of its kind.
He mentioned that the strategic expansion has generated 1,400 high-value jobs, strengthening Malaysia’s role in the global semiconductor supply chain.
“Looking ahead, Sustio is poised for further growth with plans tailored for Al-driven applications.
“The Simmtech Group has designs on Sustio Building 3 at its current site and has secured an additional 10 acres of land for Sustio Building 4, signalling a long-term commitment to innovation and expansion in the region.
“After all, our investments in Penang reflect our confidence in the state’s talent, infrastructure, and strategic position in the semiconductor industry.
“With Sustio’s cutting-edge capabilities, we are not only supporting global technology demands but also empowering local economic development,” said Chun in his speech.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who officiated the new facility, commended Simmtech on this significant achievement.
“I am truly proud to witness Sustio’s rapid growth over just a few years. This expansion clearly reaffirms the company’s confidence in Penang’s ecosystem, talent, and bright future.
“With today’s Phase 2 expansion, Sustio will double its high-density interconnection (HDI) manufacturing capacity, keeping pace with the global demand driven by artificial intelligence (AI), advanced computing, and next-generation smart devices.
“We are also greatly encouraged by Simmtech Group’s long-term vision for Penang, through plans for Sustio Building 3 and the acquisition of an additional 10 acres for Building 4.
“Your commitment speaks volumes of Batu Kawan’s rising stature as a destination for advanced electronics manufacturing, and we are proud that you have chosen to grow with us,” he said.
Chow added that as Penang continues to advance its standing as the Silicon Valley of the East, the state government is steadfast in its commitment to improving connectivity, utilities, industrial infrastructure, and nurturing talent to meet investors’ evolving needs.
“Through continued collaboration with the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (Miti), Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida), and agencies like InvestPenang, we remain dedicated to creating an enabling environment where businesses can thrive and grow with certainty and confidence.
“My heartiest congratulations once again to Sustio on the opening of this magnificent new facility.
“We deeply value your trust in Penang, and we look forward to building an even stronger partnership as we work together to drive innovation, growth, and opportunity for all,” said Chow.
Also present during the ceremony were South Korean Ambassador to Malaysia Yeo Seung-bae, Mida Penang director Muhammad Ghaddaffi Sardar Mohamed, InvestPenang chief executive officer Datuk Loo Lee Lian, Simmtech chairman Simon Chun and Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA) president Datuk Seri Wong Siew Hai.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud