Summary
- Penang secured RM17.3 billion in approved manufacturing investments in the first half of 2026.
- The figure rose 38% year-on-year and represented 34% of Malaysia’s total manufacturing approvals.
- Foreign investment contributed RM12.8 billion, while domestic investment reached RM4.5 billion.
- The 177 approved projects are expected to create 19,337 jobs.
GEORGE TOWN, September 4 — Penang led Malaysia in approved manufacturing investments with RM17.3 billion in the first half of 2026, up 38% from a year earlier.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state accounted for 34% of Malaysia’s total manufacturing approvals. Expansion projects contributed RM11.9 billion.
While new projects accounted for RM5.4 billion. Foreign direct investment reached RM12.8 billion, while domestic investment jumped 125% to RM4.5 billion.
Electrical and electronics, together with machinery and equipment, accounted for 88% of investments. The 177 approved projects are expected to create 19,337 jobs.
Penang expects further projects to lift the full-year total beyond 2025 levels.
