BATU KAWAN: Estek Automation Sdn Bhd has invested RM20 million in a new 50,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Batu Kawan, Penang, to expand its capabilities in semiconductor equipment, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven solutions and contract manufacturing.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the investment reflected the ambition and growing capabilities of local engineering companies in developing their own technologies and expertise to meet evolving industry needs.
He said the new facility marked an important milestone for Estek, enabling the company to deliver higher value-added solutions and strengthen its position in the semiconductor ecosystem.
"It is encouraging to see local companies like Estek investing in developing their own capabilities. This demonstrates the ambition and growing strength of our local engineering companies,” he said at the facility’s opening ceremony here today.
Also present were Estek Automation founder and chief executive officer Jacky Lee Joo Seng, Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA) president Datuk Seri Wong Siew Hai and InvestPenang chief executive officer Datuk Seri Loo Lee Lian.
Established in 2015, Estek is a Malaysian engineering and automation company specialising in semiconductor automation equipment and smart manufacturing solutions.
Lee said the new facility would enable the company to expand its manufacturing capacity, strengthen its research and development (R&D) capabilities, and attract skilled talent to support the development of future products.
He said the company’s operations focus on three key areas, namely, semiconductor equipment, precision contract manufacturing, and data- and AI-driven solutions.
In semiconductor equipment manufacturing, Estek designs and produces machines such as die sorters, wafer inspection systems and other advanced automation solutions for industrial applications.
Its contract manufacturing services include equipment assembly and integration, while its data- and AI-driven solutions aim to improve operational efficiency, product quality and productivity.
Lee said the company also aims to expand its international presence and develop more proprietary technologies to strengthen the competitiveness of Malaysian companies in the global semiconductor ecosystem.
"Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem, supported by multinational companies, established local supply chains and a skilled workforce, provides opportunities for local companies to grow, innovate and contribute to the industry,” he said.
He added that Estek remained committed to developing local talent, strengthening its technical capabilities and creating more opportunities for younger generations to participate in high-technology industries.
Lee also thanked the Malaysian government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), InvestPenang, the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and other relevant agencies for their continuing support in strengthening the country’s manufacturing and semiconductor ecosystem. - Bernama
