Penang welcomed a significant milestone in its industrial growth yesterday as battery manufacturer INV New Material Technology (M) Sdn Bhd officially launched its first manufacturing facility at the Penang Technology Park@Bertam, Kepala Batas.

The Malaysian subsidiary of Shenzhen-based Senior Technology Material Co Ltd—renowned for its expertise in lithium-ion battery separator technology—was established in August 2023. The new state-of-the-art plant marks the company’s first foray into manufacturing in Malaysia.

Officiated by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, the opening ceremony drew attention to the facility’s potential as a regional game-changer. INV chairman Datuk Chen XiuFeng revealed that the company is investing RM6.4 billion in the facility, which is slated to be fully operational by June 2027.

“At full capacity, the plant will produce 2 billion square meters of high-performance battery separators annually, targeting a 15% global market share,” said Datuk Chen. “This will be the largest low-carbon separator plant in ASEAN and a key enabler of the global energy transition.”

Chow lauded the rapid development of the project, noting its transformation since the groundbreaking in November 2023.

“INV’s presence enhances Penang’s green technology and energy ecosystem. With applications in EVs, aerospace, energy storage, and electronics, this facility represents a major leap forward,” he said.

He also highlighted the plant’s potential to generate 1,200 skilled jobs, aligning with the state’s vision to strengthen high-value industries and nurture local talent.

Chow reiterated the state’s commitment to supporting technology-driven investments in line with national roadmaps like NIMP 2030 and the National Semiconductor Strategy.

“We are also actively improving infrastructure, connectivity, and livability to ensure sustainable, inclusive growth in hubs like Bertam,” he concluded.

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