Kuka Robotics To Boost Automation, Robotics In Malaysia, Southeast Asia With New Penang Branch

BATU KAWAN, June 18 (Bernama) -- Kuka Robot Automation (M) Sdn Bhd (Kuka Robotics Malaysia) reinforces its commitment to advancing industrial automation and robotics innovation in Malaysia and Southeast Asia with the launch of its new branch in Penang here today.

Kuka Robotics Malaysia is a subsidiary of global automation company Kuka Robotics (Kuka), which is based in Germany. 

Kuka Asia Pacific excluding China (APeC) chief regional officer Alan Fam said the company’s expansion to Penang, following the launch of its office in Kuala Lumpur last year, aims to support northern Malaysia’s growing role as a hub for high-tech and smart manufacturing.

Fam said the company is confident of its prospects in Penang, considering the state’s vibrant manufacturing activities. 

“In the first quarter this year, Malaysia recorded close to RM90 billion in approved investments, and Penang was ranked the top five states with the highest approved investments. 

“That is why at the opening today, we have a few of our robots doing demonstrations of their capabilities so that potential customers can understand how our products can help them to raise efficiency and automate operations,” he told a press conference after the launch of Kuka Robotics Malaysia’s new office here today. 

Fam added that the three-storey office would house its sales and service operations, and there is a possibility for expansion, considering Penang is a key growth driver for the company’s operations. 

In conjunction with today’s opening, KUKA signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Penang Skills Development Centre (PSDC) to collaborate on robotics training and workforce development. 

PSDC chief executive officer (CEO) Dr Hari Narayanan said the two parties would work together to jointly establish a robotic training lab facility at PSDC, equipping emerging talents to meet the increasing demand for skilled professionals in robotic operations.

“Together, we aim to bridge the skills gap and foster greater innovation and competitiveness within the local ecosystem,” he added.

Meanwhile, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) CEO Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said Kuka Robotics Malaysia’s expansion into Penang underscored the country’s robust industrial ecosystem and the growing demand for advanced automation solutions. 

“This new office will assume a key role in supporting our high-technology industries through closer customer engagement, enhanced technical services, and the development of local talent. 

“The initiative is well aligned with the goals of the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, particularly in building Malaysia’s strengths in smart automation,” he added.

Also present was Penang Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo and InvestPenang chief executive officer Datuk Loo Lee Lian.

-- BERNAMA