In a ceremony held today at Bandar Cassia Technology Park, Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, officiated the groundbreaking of Plexus' new Bridgeview manufacturing facility. This marks Plexus' sixth site in Malaysia and represents a major step forward for the country's digital economy and tech sector.

In his address, Tengku Zafrul expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate the launch of this significant project. He noted, "This milestone is a significant step forward not only for Plexus but also for the country's digital economic journey, high-skilled employment and tech development. This move also reaffirms our nation's attractiveness and global appeal as a preferred investment destination."

The minister highlighted Malaysia's growing status as a semiconductor powerhouse. With global semiconductor industry projections reaching USD1 trillion by 2030, Malaysia, with its 50-year track record in the sector, is poised to benefit from this growth. In 2023, Penang alone attracted USD12.8 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) from semiconductor multinational corporations, surpassing the total FDI from the previous seven years combined.

He emphasised the importance of the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP2030) and the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS) in guiding the industry's future. "Malaysia has what it takes – a solid foundation, a thriving ecosystem, strong political will – to engineer the rapid growth of our manufacturing industry by engaging key stakeholders," he said.

The new Plexus facility, which will focus on Semiconductor Capital Equipment as well as the Healthcare and Life Sciences sectors, is seen as a key component in realising the NIMP's objectives. The expansion is expected to enhance Malaysia's manufacturing ecosystem, driven by dynamic partnerships between global and local companies and powered by top-tier talent.

The Minister also acknowledged the role of US companies in Malaysia's economic landscape, highlighting that in 2023, the country saw RM29.2 billion in approved investments from the US. He noted the potential for Malaysia to become a hub for medical devices, leveraging its manufacturing capabilities to serve both the ASEAN market and the broader Asian market.

The minister praised Plexus for its investments in sustainability and community engagement. "We appreciate the investments you have made in a 50,000 sq. ft. warehouse with automation, as well as solar panels to reduce your carbon footprint," he said. He also commended Plexus' efforts in promoting STEM education and diversity.

Looking ahead, Tengku Zafrul encouraged Plexus to expand its STEM and technical and vocational education and training (TVET) programmes, and suggested the establishment of an interactive 'mini–Science Centre' at Bandar Cassia for local primary school students.

In conclusion, Tengku Zafrul reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to supporting international investors and ensuring the successful implementation of projects. "I hereby officiate the groundbreaking of the Bridgeview manufacturing facility. May this lead Plexus, Penang, and Malaysia towards many more successes and a prosperous future," he stated.

The ceremony marks a new chapter in Malaysia's journey towards becoming a leading global player in the tech industry.