AFTER seven robust years in Penang, Boston Scientific is further solidifying its presence in the Asia Pacific region.
Boston Scientific MedSurg and Asia Pacific executive vice-president and Group president Arthur Butcher emphasised the corporation’s strategic focus on the Asia Pacific market, noting it as the fastest-growing region for the company.
“This region is pivotal to our success, and we are continuously increasing our investments here.
“In 2023, the Asia Pacific region contributed approximately 17% of our global revenue,” Butcher said.
Reflecting on Boston Scientific’s experience in Penang, Butcher added: “Our journey here over the past seven to eight years has been exceptional.”
“We currently employ around 1,400 people, and this number is set to rise as we continue to experience significant growth,” he said.
During a courtesy visit to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow at his office in Komtar today, Butcher highlighted Boston Scientific’s commitment to innovation.
“We consider ourselves an ‘innovation engine’. We allocate 10% of our revenue to research and development (R&D), and we reinvest 100% of our profits in acquiring external technology. This approach drives our above-market growth,” he said.
Boston Scientific Medical Device (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd vice-president (Penang operations) Fearghal Hennessy provided an update on the company’s progress in Penang.
He also highlighted Boston Scientific’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, underscoring its dedication to the community and sustainability.
One of the upcoming initiatives is the Men’s Health Awareness Campaign, scheduled for Oct 12 at Design Village Mall from 8am to 4pm.
“The campaign will focus on urology and cardiology.
“We are offering free rapid screenings and onsite doctor consultations for the local community,” Hennessy explained.
Chow expressed his satisfaction with the strong growth of Boston Scientific in Penang.
“Our team from InvestPenang, including chief executive officer Datuk Loo Lee Lian, and I recently completed an investment and trade mission to the United States, organised by InvestPenang.
“During the mission, we visited Silicon Valley, participating in strategic meetings and conducting site visits with current and potential investors.
“The last trade mission to the United States was five years ago due to the travel restrictions caused by Covid-19,” Chow shared.
In response, Butcher extended an invitation to Chow to visit the corporation’s headquarters in Marlborough, Massachusetts.
“We would be honoured to host you at Boston Scientific and showcase the innovative work we are doing,” Butcher added.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Alissala Thian