UNITED STATES-based Benchmark Precision Technologies has officially expanded its presence in Penang with the groundbreaking ceremony of its fifth manufacturing facility.
Strategically located adjacent to its fourth facility in the Batu Kawan Industrial Park (BKIP), the new facility is expected to be completed by June 2026.
This expansion complements the company’s three other manufacturing sites in Bayan Lepas, further solidifying its role as a key player in Malaysia’s high-tech manufacturing landscape.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held today, was officiated by Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, marking another milestone in Penang’s growing prominence as a hub for advanced manufacturing and precision engineering.
Benchmark Precision Technologies Group president Datuk Dr Balamurugan Sinnasamy highlighted that the new facility will be a cutting-edge two-storey building featuring office spaces, advanced production areas, including cleanrooms, complex machining capabilities, automated powder coating lines and a multi-storey car park and other in-house amenities.
“With an investment of RM110 million over the next 18 months, this facility will add an additional 215,000 sq ft of manufacturing space.
“Over the next five years, we expect to create employment opportunities for more than 500 professionals across various skill levels.
“Upon full operational capacity, Benchmark will have a total of 720,000 sq ft of manufacturing space in Penang, enhancing its ability to generate up to RM4.5 billion in annual revenue,” said Dr Balamurugan in his speech.
Dr Balamurugan emphasised that the expansion also will strengthen Benchmark’s capacity to meet the rising demand for Wafer Fab Equipment (WFE) manufacturing in the region.
“This facility will enhance our expertise in complex module assembly and high-level system integration for leading semiconductor WFE manufacturers.
“Additionally, it will accommodate large-form-factor precision machining and incorporate a state-of-the-art automated powder coating line, reinforcing Benchmark’s position as a Tier 1 contract manufacturer in Southeast Asia,” he added.
Meanwhile, Jagdeep lauded Benchmark’s continued investment in Penang, recognising it as a testament to the state’s robust industrial ecosystem, skilled workforce, and strategic global connectivity.
“I am confident that Benchmark Precision Technologies will continue to thrive by leveraging Penang’s dynamic industrial landscape.
“Since its entry into Malaysia in 2007, the company has played a crucial role in shaping our economic and technological progress,” Jagdeep stated.
He also noted the significant role of US investors in bolstering Penang’s industrial growth.
“Investments from US firms, including Benchmark, have been instrumental in advancing technological innovation and industrial capabilities in the region,” said Jagdeep.
Also present during the groundbreaking ceremony were Bukit Tambun assemblyman and InvestPenang director Goh Choon Aik, Malaysian Investment Department Authority (Mida) Penang director Muhammad Ghaddaffi Sardar Mohamed and Benchmark Precision Technologies Penang vice-president and general manager Khoo Kay Chuan.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar