Agilent’s Penang Smart Factory Gains Global Recognition For Industry 4.0 Excellence
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 14 (Bernama) -- Agilent Technologies Malaysia Sdn Bhd’s smart factory in Penang has been recognised as a global leader in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) by the World Economic Forum (WEF) and McKinsey & Company.
In a joint statement today, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), InvestPenang and Agilent Technologies said the accolade honours factories worldwide that demonstrate exceptional performance in productivity, supply chain resilience and talent development through the adoption of advanced technologies.
“Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and other advanced digital technologies, Agilent Penang has increased overall productivity by 40 per cent, reduced delivery lead times by 48 per cent, and significantly lowered its environmental impact.
“These advancements have enhanced agility in meeting changing market demands while equipping its workforce with AI-ready skills,” they said.
The parties noted that Agilent’s Penang facility is one of only two factories in Malaysia to be recognised by the Forum, placing the state on the global map for advanced manufacturing excellence.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said both Malaysian Lighthouse sites being located in the state reflected Penang’s readiness to adopt 4IR and its role as a national benchmark for smart manufacturing.
“Agilent balances technological advancement with environmental and social responsibility, making its Penang site a true model for smart factory development in Malaysia,” he said.
MIDA chief executive officer Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said Agilent plays a significant role in supporting the growth of Malaysia's semiconductor value chain.
“The National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS) strengthens the overall industrial ecosystem by advancing skills, research and infrastructure, which in turn supports high-value companies like Agilent and helps the semiconductor sector become more resilient.
“Together with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the 13th Malaysia Plan, these national efforts are being translated into real, measurable impact,” he said.
The NSS is Malaysia’s 10-year plan to elevate its semiconductor industry from assembly and testing into a global hub for advanced chip design, manufacturing, and research and development.
Meanwhile, Agilent’s Interim President for Order Fulfilment and Supply Chain and Vice President for Global Instrument Manufacturing, Chow Woai Sheng, said human-machine collaboration can enhance capabilities and create new opportunities in adapting to changing market conditions.
“At Agilent, we are proud to contribute to Penang’s continued economic growth by driving innovation, world-class manufacturing, and investing in high-value skills,” he said.
According to Agilent, 88 per cent of its local workforce in Penang have been upskilled through a digital training programme to support the company’s 4IR transformation.
“As the company advances the application of AI in producing life sciences instruments, Agilent continues to collaborate with Malaysia’s scientific community to accelerate discoveries and improve quality of life worldwide,” it added.
-- BERNAMA