Galatek Opens Penang Facility, Commits To US$100 Mln Investment Within 5 Years
BUTTERWORTH, June 12 (Bernama) -- Galatek Technologies (Galatek) has opened its manufacturing, assembly and delivery facility in Penang, further strengthening Malaysia’s position as a strategic hub for advanced manufacturing and semiconductor industry development.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said with an initial investment of US$2 million (RM9.4 million), the facility would support advanced equipment manufacturing, system integration, assembly, testing and delivery for customers across key sectors, including semiconductors, advanced electronics, life sciences and sustainable energy.
He said the presence of Galatek, a global provider of AI-enabled automation, semiconductor equipment and life science technologies, reflects the direction of Penang’s economy as the state strengthens its position in industries driven by automation, AI, digitalisation and advanced manufacturing technologies.
“Galatek's decision to establish manufacturing, assembly and delivery operations strengthens its regional presence and also reinforces Penang’s position as a preferred destination for technology-driven industries,” he said when officiating the opening ceremony of the facility at the Perai Industrial Park here today.
Galatek chief executive officer (CEO) David Tian, InvestPenang CEO Datuk Loo Lee Lian, and Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) Penang director Muhammad Ghaddaffi Sardar Mohamed were also present.
Chow said the investment reflects Galatek’s long-term commitment to Penang. He said the company plans to invest an additional US$60 million over the next three years, bringing its total investment in the state to US$100 million within five years.
He added that Galatek’s Malaysian workforce is expected to grow from about 20 to 30 employees in its first year of operations to around 100 within five years, creating high-quality employment opportunities for engineers, technicians and other skilled professionals.
According to Chow, investments such as Galatek’s are strategically important as companies operating at the intersection of advanced manufacturing, automation, and engineering solutions contribute to economic growth and also the technological capabilities that will define the state’s industrial future.
He also welcomed Galatek’s commitment to increasing localisation and strengthening engagement with local suppliers and partners, while encouraging the company to explore collaboration opportunities through the Penang Advanced Technology and Engineering Campus to support talent development and innovation within the semiconductor ecosystem.
Meanwhile, Tian said Penang was selected as the company’s regional manufacturing and delivery hub due to its robust industrial ecosystem and strong connectivity to global markets.
He described the facility’s opening as a significant milestone in Galatek’s long-term expansion strategy across Southeast Asia.
"The company aims to build local engineering capabilities, expand collaboration with Malaysian suppliers and contribute to the continued growth of the country’s high-technology industries.
“The next generation of industrial and scientific innovation will increasingly rely on the convergence of AI, automation and advanced equipment systems. Penang provides an exceptional environment for us to build those capabilities and serve global customers from Malaysia," he added.
-- BERNAMA
