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Malaysia is set to strengthen its position as a regional semiconductor hub after Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that Intel will invest an additional 860 million ringgit (about $208 million) to expand its assembly and testing operations in the country. Anwar shared the announcement in a social media post on Monday, noting that the investment followed his recent meeting with Intel’s CEO, Lip-Bu Tan. The move signals Intel’s continued confidence in Malaysia’s role within the global semiconductor supply chain, especially at a time when the industry is facing rising demand and heightened competition.
This new commitment builds on Intel’s long-term presence in Malaysia, where it has operated for more than five decades. In 2021, the U.S. chip giant announced plans to construct a $7 billion advanced chip packaging facility in the country, aimed at supporting next-generation semiconductor technologies. The additional RM860 million investment further reinforces Intel’s strategy to expand its manufacturing footprint in Southeast Asia, ensuring greater production capacity and resilience.
Malaysia has been actively working to attract high-value tech investments as part of its broader goal to elevate the nation’s position in the global electronics industry. Intel’s expansion is expected to create new job opportunities, strengthen local supply chains, and accelerate the country’s technological capabilities. Industry analysts believe the investment will provide a meaningful boost to Malaysia’s competitiveness, particularly as nations worldwide race to secure strategic semiconductor operations.
The announcement also aligns with Malaysia’s economic agenda to enhance foreign direct investment and deepen collaboration with global tech leaders. By partnering with companies like Intel, Malaysia aims to fuel innovation, support advanced manufacturing, and meet the growing global demand for semiconductor components. With this latest investment, Intel continues to play a pivotal role in shaping Malaysia’s semiconductor landscape and driving long-term economic growth.
