A NEW chapter in Penang’s industrial landscape began today with the official launch of Northern TechValley@BKE, a 176-acre integrated industrial park set to bolster the state’s position as a hub for high-tech manufacturing and industrial innovation.
Developed by Suling Hill Development, a special purpose vehicle by AME Elite Consortium Berhad and Majestic Gen, Northern TechValley@BKE is projected to have a gross development value (GDV) of RM1.3 billion.
“Today marks a significant milestone in Penang’s industrial journey.
“Congratulations to Suling Hill Development for its vision and leadership in bringing this ambitious project to life.
“This collaboration exemplifies our shared commitment to advancing Penang’s industrial sector and positioning it as a future-forward hub for high-tech excellence,” said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, during the launch ceremony at The Light Hotel this morning.
Northern TechValley@BKE aims to become a high-tech nexus, equipped to support industries such as pharmaceuticals, medical technology, and R&D for technology.
It is designed to align closely with Penang’s SEED (Strategy for Economic Ecosystem Development) initiative, a strategic plan to elevate high-value manufacturing sectors, including electronics, medical technology, and semiconductors. With this project, Penang is set to reinforce its reputation as a critical economic powerhouse in Malaysia.
A Legacy of Industrial Leadership in Penang
For more than five decades, Penang has been at the forefront of industrialisation in Malaysia, attracting significant foreign direct investments (FDI) and building a skilled workforce to support its growth.
This robust foundation, paired with state-of-the-art infrastructure, has enabled Penang to maintain its edge on the global stage.
However, Penang’s industrial journey is far from over. SEED is designed to drive the next phase of growth by fostering innovation and excellence across critical industries, ensuring Penang remains globally competitive.
A Sustainable, Integrated Ecosystem
Northern TechValley@BKE is not merely an industrial park; it is a sustainable, integrated ecosystem designed with both businesses and their workforces in mind.
With plans for the Industrial Garden Landscape Concept and aspirations for GreenRE certification, the park embodies a commitment to environmentally responsible growth.
Alongside its cutting-edge industrial facilities, the development offers thoughtfully planned lifestyle amenities, recreational spaces, and accommodations to support a balanced environment where businesses and employees alike can thrive.
This aligns with Penang2030’s vision of harmonising economic progress with environmental stewardship.
Early Progress and Investment Confidence
Construction progress on Northern TechValley@BKE has already begun, with earthworks initiated in August 2024. Building construction is set to start in early 2025, with full completion projected for 2029.
Today’s event also included the signing of Sales and Purchase Agreements with two local firms, highlighting the confidence that investors have in this project:
J&T Resources (a substantial shareholder of Topmix Berhad): A leader in decorative surface solutions for commercial and residential buildings, J&T Resources will establish a distribution hub and showroom within Northern TechValley@BKE.
Labelpac & Print: A prominent player in printing solutions, Labelpac & Print will expand their manufacturing operations here to meet the rising demand.
Looking to the Future
As Northern TechValley@BKE continues to take shape, its strategic location and excellent connectivity are expected to draw additional investments, further strengthening Penang’s industrial base.
“This development stands as a symbol of progress, innovation, and sustainability.
“It embodies the forward-thinking approach Penang needs to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global landscape,” Chow remarked.
In his address, Majestic Gen executive director and Suling Hill Development director Ta Wee Dher highlighted Penang’s status as a key economic powerhouse, particularly renowned for its dynamic electronics and semiconductor industries.
“Penang’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and supportive business environment have established it as a crucial link in the global supply chain.
“We are thrilled to contribute to Penang’s growth story,” he noted.
Wee Dher explained that Northern TechValley@BKE is designed to be ‘future-ready’, offering flexibility and customisable options tailored to meet diverse business needs.
“Located along the Butterworth-Kulim Expressway (BKE), the park benefits from excellent connectivity to major road networks, including the North-South Expressway,” he added.
Also present were state Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, Penang Trade, Entrepreneurial Development and Rural Development Committee chairman Datuk Rashidi Zinol, Penang Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) director Muhammad Ghaddaffi Sardar Mohamed, InvestPenang chief executive officer Datuk Loo Lee Lian, AME Elite Consortium Berhad Group chief executive officer cum Suling Hill Development director Dylan Tan Teck Eng, AME Elite Consortium Berhad executive director cum Suling Hill Development director Vincen Lim, and Majestic Gen director cum Suling Hill Development director Ta Shun Dher.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud