PENANG has welcomed a major boost to its industrial landscape with the official opening of M.A.i Automation Technology Malaysia Sdn Bhd, the first production facility in Malaysia by M.A.i, a leading German specialist in customised automation solutions.
Strategically located in Jalan Jelawat, Seberang Jaya, the new facility strengthens M.A.i’s global footprint and enhances its presence in Southeast Asia.
With over 25 years of expertise spanning the automotive, medical, plastics, electronics, and new energy sectors, the company aims to leverage Penang’s robust infrastructure and skilled workforce to drive innovation.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, M.A.i Automation Technology Malaysia Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Andreas Forster described the expansion as a significant milestone in the company’s international growth strategy.
“This cutting-edge facility in Penang will serve as a regional hub for automation innovation and manufacturing excellence.
“Our engineering teams here will develop customised automation solutions while maintaining the high standards that have defined M.A.i since its founding in 1999,” Forster stated.
He added that the Penang facility will complement M.A.i’s German headquarters while extending its global reach, positioning the company at the forefront of automation advancements in Southeast Asia.
Forster highlighted that the decision to establish a presence in Penang was driven by its strategic location, well-developed infrastructure, and access to a pool of highly qualified professionals.
“The new branch will work closely with our German headquarters to leverage synergies and drive innovation, ensuring we continue delivering world-class automation solutions,” he said.
M.A.i chief executive officer Stefan Woldrich underscored the significance of the Malaysian expansion as part of the company’s broader strategy.
“Our headquarters in Kronach, Germany, remains the core of our innovations, strategic decisions, and production.
“We continuously invest in expanding and modernising our German operations, with further expansions planned,” he said.
He added that the new Malaysian facility would allow M.A.i to efficiently cater to the growing demand in Southeast Asia, further strengthening its worldwide network.
“This expansion enables us to enhance our global presence while capitalising on the strengths of all our locations,” Woldrich remarked.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) deputy chief executive officer Sivasuriyamoorthy Sundara Raja, who was also present, congratulated M.A.i on its new venture.
He emphasised how the company’s establishment aligns with Malaysia’s National Investment Aspirations (NIA).
“This milestone highlights Malaysia’s growing prominence in the global industrial sector.
“M.A.i’s decision to invest here reflects confidence in our economic direction and commitment to high-value job creation and sustainable growth,” he said.
Also present at the launch were Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to Malaysia Dr Peter Blomeyer, Honorary Consular of the Federal Republic of Germany in Penang Datuk Hans Peter Brenner and Penang Mida director Muhammad Ghaddaffi Sardar Mohamed.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix courtesy of InvestPenang and Ahmad Adil Muhamad