PETALING JAYA: MKS Inc, a global provider of enabling technologies, has opened its MKS Supercenter Factory in Batu Kawan, Penang, with a strategic investment of over RM400 million.
Located on a 17-acre site with about 350,000 square feet of built-up space, the facility will support the growing global demand for wafer fabrication equipment. Developed in multiple phases, the project’s first phase is now complete.
Upon completion of all phases, the MKS Super Center Factory is expected to create more than 1,000 jobs, reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a preferred destination for high-value, technology-driven investments, aligned with the aspirations of the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 ((NIMP 2030).
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said MKS’s Super Center Factory represents a significant milestone in the state’s continued evolution as a global hub for advanced manufacturing and semiconductor innovation, aligning with NIMP 2030 and the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS).
“This also underscores the state’s strong value proposition – from a highly skilled talent pool to a well-established industrial ecosystem and robust infrastructure that supports high-tech manufacturing,” he said.
Chow said MKS’s presence in Penang complements Penang’s ambition to move further up the semiconductor value chain, and the state will continue to support the company’s continued growth in Penang.
The grand opening ceremony was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and attended by representatives from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida), InvestPenang and other government agencies.
MKS’s presence underscores Malaysia’s growing role as a hub for advanced manufacturing and semiconductor innovation.
Mida CEO Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said MKS’s investment reflects the growing shift towards higher-value manufacturing and technology-driven activities in Malaysia.
“The M&E industry recorded RM3.5 billion in approved investments in the first quarter of 2026, reaffirming its position as a cornerstone of Malaysia’s manufacturing landscape.
“Beyond its scale, this project will deepen domestic supply chain capabilities, strengthen industry-academia collaboration in talent development and create greater opportunities for Malaysian companies to participate in higher-value activities.
“In line with the aspirations of the NIMP 2030, investments such as this are instrumental in generating quality jobs, accelerating industrial upgrading and delivering broader economic benefits for the people,” he said.
InvestPenang CEO Datuk Loo Lee Lian said MKS’s Super Center Factory represents a significant milestone in Penang’s continued evolution as a global hub for advanced manufacturing and semiconductor innovation.
“This investment underscores the state’s strong value proposition – from a highly skilled talent pool to a well-established industrial ecosystem and robust infrastructure. The state will continue to support MKS in this journey and look forward to the long-term economic and technological benefits this facility will bring to Penang and Malaysia,” she said.
Meanwhile, MKS CEO John T.C. Lee said the opening of the Super Center Factory in Penang reflects the strength of Malaysia’s industrial ecosystem, the depth of local talent and the company’s shared commitment to innovation.
He said the new facility brings the company closer to its customers and partners, enhancing ability to deliver advanced semiconductor manufacturing solutions while contributing to progress across the global value chain.
The grand opening on Saturday featured highlights of the project and technology, and recognised the strong partnership between MKS, Mida and InvestPenang. The investment reinforces Malaysia’s strategic role in the global semiconductor ecosystem while supporting supply chain resilience, advanced manufacturing capabilities and long-term industrial growth.
