Eppendorf breaks ground on €40 million Penang manufacturing facility
Production is expected to start in 2028, with about 130 jobs anticipated by end-2029.
German life science company Eppendorf SE is investing €40 million in a manufacturing facility at Bandar Cassia Technology Park in Penang, its first such operation in Southeast Asia. A groundbreaking ceremony was held in Batu Kawan on Nov 12.
The company expects production to begin in 2028 and is targeting full operational maturity by 2030. It anticipates creating about 130 jobs by end-2029. The facility will manufacture selected centrifuges and instruments for use in laboratories and scientific workplaces worldwide.
Plans for the 4.85-hectare (48,500 sq m) site provide for about 172,222 sq ft (16,000 sq m) of built-up space. This will accommodate manufacturing, storage, office work, quality-related activities and logistics.
Chief executive officer Dr Christine Munz said Asia Pacific was among Eppendorf's fastest-growing markets. Manufacturing within the region would help the company serve customers and sustain growth, she said, adding that the Penang operation would support competitiveness and product portfolio expansion.
Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) CEO Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said the project was aligned with the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030. He said it would support skilled employment, supplier development and Malaysia's participation in global value chains.
Eppendorf has operated in Malaysia through its Kuala Lumpur office since 1995. The Penang investment extends its Malaysian activities beyond commercial and administrative functions into manufacturing.
