Agilent’s state-of-the-art facility in Penang received recognition by the World Economic Forum, solidifying Malaysia’s position as a leader in advanced manufacturing

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 14 (Bernama) -- Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) today celebrated a landmark achievement as its smart factory in Penang was recognised as a global leader in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) by the World Economic Forum and McKinsey & Company. The accolade honours factories worldwide that demonstrate exceptional performance in productivity, supply chain resilience, and talent development through the adoption of advanced technologies.

Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced digital technologies, Agilent Penang has increased overall productivity by 40%, reduced delivery lead times by 48%, and a significantly reduction in environmental impact. These advancements have enhanced agility in meeting changing market demands while equipping its workforce with AI-ready skills. Agilent’s Penang facility is now one of only two (2) factories in Malaysia to be named by the Forum, firmly placing the state on the global map for advanced manufacturing excellence.

YAB Tuan Chow Kon Yeow, Chief Minister of Penang, said, “I am especially proud that both Malaysian Lighthouse sites are located in Penang, a reflection of the state’s readiness to embrace Industry 4.0 and its rising prominence as a national benchmark for smart manufacturing excellence.” He added, “Agilent balances technological advancement with environmental and social responsibility, making its Penang’s site a true model for Smart Factory development in Malaysia.”

Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), expressed, “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Agilent for this prestigious recognition as a World Economic Forum Global Lighthouse – a milestone that reinforces Malaysia’s growing reputation as a hub for advanced manufacturing and smart industry. We applaud Agilent’s significant role as one of the enablers and accelerators for the entire semiconductor value chain in the country. The National Semiconductor Strategy strengthens the overall industrial ecosystem by advancing skills, research, and infrastructure, which in turn supports highvalue companies like Agilent and helps the semiconductor sector grow more resilient. Together with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the 13th Malaysia Plan, these national efforts are being translated into real, measurable impact. MIDA is proud to have supported Agilent’s journey as we collectively position Malaysia at the forefront of global industrial leadership."

“Embracing human-machine collaboration for industries to augment human capabilities introduces great new possibilities in navigating evolving market landscapes. At Agilent, we are proud to contribute to Penang’s continuous economic growth by driving innovation, world-class manufacturing, and investing in high-value skills.” Said Chow Woai Sheng, President for Order Fulfillment and Supply Chain (Interim) and Vice President for Global Instrument Manufacturing at Agilent.

Central to Agilent’s 4IR transformation is a digital training programme that has successfully upskilled 88% of its local workforce, equipping employees to lead the next chapter of sustainable manufacturing. As the company advances the application of AI in producing life sciences instruments, Agilent continues to collaborate with Malaysia’s scientific community to accelerate discoveries and improve quality of life worldwide.

Refer this link for contact details and enquiries: https://tinyurl.com/yc5ahfmk 


SOURCE: Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) 

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
MIDA
Name: Mr. Mazlan Mokhtar
Director, Electrical and Electronics Division
Tel: +603-2267 6655
Email: mazlan@mida.gov.my 

InvestPenang
Communications & Business Intelligence
Name: Elaine Cheah / Arief Ferdaus
Tel: +604-646 8833
Email: elaine@investpenang.gov.my / arief@investpenang.gov.my  

Agilent Technologies
Media Relations, South Asia and Korea
Name: Grace Thong
Tel: +65 9688 2152
Email: grace.thong@agilent.com 

--BERNAMA