AMIDST the dynamic landscape of technology and innovation, Penang, a stalwart in Malaysia’s industrial realm, witnessed a momentous occasion with the official reopening of Lattice Semiconductor.
Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, overseeing Human Capital Development, Science and Technology in the state, presided over the ceremony at 108 Spice Canopy today.
In his speech, Jagdeep said the reopening of Lattice Semiconductor signifies Penang’s ever-growing dominance in the manufacturing and E&E (Electrical and Electronics) sectors in Malaysia.
“Today, with the reopening of Lattice Semiconductor, Penang is once again at the forefront of the semiconductor industry,” he proclaimed.
“The semiconductor industry in Penang is extensive, from its talent and infrastructure to its existing ecosystem, we have been in the lead for the past 50 years, delivering industrial leadership and excellence.”
Jagdeep attributed Penang’s continued leadership to the recent announcement of RM35.8 billion in approved manufacturing foreign direct investments (FDI) that was announced recently by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
He also emphasised the existing synergy between the Federal and state governments in bolstering Penang’s manufacturing and E&E ecosystem, particularly in the enhancement of the existing talent pool.
Therefore, he welcomed Lattice Semiconductor’s efforts to contribute to the growth of the industry by sustaining and nurturing future talents through internship programmes, workshops, and career talks.
Lattice Semiconductors’ senior vice-president (worldwide sales) Mark Nelson acknowledged the company’s longstanding position as a leader in the Field-programmable gate array (FPGA) sector and a solution provider for almost 40 years now.
“Lattice is looking forward to further expanding our market and serving our customers better within Asia Pacific and beyond.
“Hence, Penang is ideal for Lattice Semiconductor to establish an office space as well as a labspace focusing on Research and Development (R&D) as it possesses a vast E&E ecosystem, available infrastructures, and a robust talent pool that can cater to the growth of the company,” Nelson said.
Also present at the ceremony were Datuk Loo Lee Lian, the InvestPenang chief executive officer; Friiscor Ho, Lattice Semiconductor Malaysia site Lead; Eleena Ong, Lattice Semiconductor corporate vice-president of Software Solutions and worldwide applications; and Badrul Hafizi Alias, InvestPenang digital economy and services executive.
Story by Norman Sim
Pix by Alissala Thian