Penang attracts RM32.9 billion approved investments in 2025 as semiconductor boom continues

Penang secured RM32.9 billion in approved investments throughout 2025, with the state’s high-technology manufacturing sectors serving as the primary growth engine, says Chief Minister, Chow Kon Yeow.

Chow said Penang remained a significant contributor to Malaysia’s broader economic performance, underpinned by steady investor confidence in the state’s industrial ecosystem, skilled workforce, infrastructure readiness and its strategic role in the global supply chain.

Speaking in a written reply to Ong Ah Teong (PH-Batu Lancang) during the state assembly sitting, Chow cited data from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), noting that sectors such as electrical and electronics (E&E), semiconductors and medical devices continued to draw strong interest from investors.

He attributed the robust investment inflow to consistent policy stability and proactive support from the state government, which he said had reinforced confidence among both foreign and local investors

On trade performance, he said Penang recorded export value of RM573bil and import value of RM382bil in 2025 through Penang Port and Penang International Airport.

The figures were based on data from the Statistics Department of Malaysia (DOSM).

However, Chow said a detailed breakdown of trade handled specifically through Penang Port and Penang International Airport was currently unavailable.

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“Overall, the export and import performance through these two major gateways reflects strong trade activity and underscores Penang’s role as a key node in regional and global supply chains, particularly for high-technology and value-added goods,” he said.

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