KUALA LUMPUR: German life sciences company Eppendorf SE has broken ground on its €40mil manufacturing facility in Penang, marking its first production site in Southeast Asia.
Located at Bandar Cassia Technology Park, the facility is expected to begin production in phases from 2028 and employ about 130 people by the end of 2029.
The plant will manufacture selected laboratory products from Eppendorf's Centrifuges & Instruments portfolio for global markets.
In a joint statement, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), InvestPenang and Eppendorf said the project would occupy a 48,500 sq m site, with a planned built-up area of about 16,000 sq m.
The facility will house production, warehousing, offices, quality control, shipping and logistics operations.
Construction and installation of production equipment are targeted for completion by the end of 2027, with production gradually ramping up through 2030.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the investment would further diversify the state's manufacturing sector into high-value industries, particularly scientific and measuring equipment.
MIDA chief executive officer Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said the project would strengthen Malaysia's life sciences and medical technology ecosystem while supporting skilled employment and local supplier development.
"Eppendorf's investment reflects Malaysia's growing position as a competitive destination for high-value, technology-driven manufacturing," he said.
Meanwhile, Eppendorf group chief executive officer Dr Christine Munz said the Penang facility would strengthen the company's global manufacturing network and improve the competitiveness and flexibility of its Centrifuges & Instruments business.
“This site is a strong commitment to Penang and will be an important new pillar in Eppendorf’s global manufacturing network. It will strengthen the competitiveness and flexibility of our Centrifuges & Instruments business.
“We are grateful for the trust and excellent cooperation of the State of Penang, MIDA, InvestPenang, PDC, JVG Bina Sdn Bhd. and all partners supporting this project. Together, we are laying the foundation for a high-quality manufacturing operation that combines global Eppendorf standards with the capabilities and talent of Malaysia,” she said.
The company is also targeting LEED Gold certification for the facility, with plans to incorporate solar panels, energy-efficient building systems, electric vehicle charging infrastructure and water-retention systems.
Eppendorf has operated in Malaysia since 1995, when it established an office in Kuala Lumpur.
The Penang facility will be its first manufacturing operation in Southeast Asia and its first new greenfield production site in more than 50 years.
