ONE of the leading tech firms in Penang has reaffirmed its commitment to remain in the Bayan Lepas Free Industrial Zone despite the global economic uncertainties and the rise of renewed competition from Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the growth of super smart chips.
Hewlett Packard (HP) Inc. Malaysia managing director Alex Tan said that the computer maker has been in Malaysia, notably Penang since 1972.
"HP’s presence in Malaysia dates back to 1972, making us one of the pioneer investors in Penang’s industrial growth. Over the past 40 years, Malaysia has become an integral part of HP’s global operations, not just as a strategic manufacturing hub, but as a partner in our shared vision of progress.
"At HP, our mission is simple but powerful: to create technology that inspires ambitious and meaningful progress. In a rapidly changing world, we remain steadfast in our commitment to accelerating innovation— not only to seize new opportunities but to address the challenges of tomorrow.
“A key pillar of this strategy is Future Ready Operations, which focuses on strengthening our organisation to stay ahead in the digital age while ensuring sustainable and efficient business practices that meet the demands of today and tomorrow."
Tan said that the global tech firm has confidence in Penang and Malaysia's ability to compete, hence it has invested in a new HP Malaysia Manufacturing Transformation Center.
This 4,639-square-foot facility embodies HP’s vision for the future of advanced manufacturing, powered by Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies such as robotics, automation to predictive analytics.
"The transformation centre is transforming the way we design, produce, and optimise our print supplies production. For HP, the facility represents our commitment to being Future Ready, driving innovation, embracing sustainability and preparing our workforce for the challenges of tomorrow."
Tan said that for Malaysia, the transformation signifies opportunity.
It strengthens the country’s position as a global leader in the Micro Electrical Mechanical System (MEMs) space and aligns with the government’s industrial transformation roadmap including initiatives such as Industry4WRD and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030).
The centre will also serve as a training ground to upskill local talent and foster collaboration across government, academia, and industry players, contributing to Malaysia’s industrial and economic progress.
Among those present was Invest Penang chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Loo Lee Lian.
HP Malaysia Manufacturing general manager Dominic Chew said that the transformation centre's initial establishment in 2016, it has become a cornerstone of HP’s global operations, not just for its scale for producing inkjet supplies that reach 175 countries globally – but for the role it plays in advancing technology and creating meaningful change.
"HP’s story in Penang is one of innovation, resilience, and collaboration. HPMM is not just a facility, we are committed to continuously investing in technology, talent, and impactful initiatives that will help shape a brighter and more sustainable future right here in Penang," he said. - January 19, 2025.
