PENANG, June 30 — Malaysia is on its way to become Southeast Asia’s leading electric vehicle (EV) hub with the official launch of a lithium-ion battery separator facility today.
The RM3.2 billion investment by INV New Material Technology Sdn Bhd, a company based in Penang Technology Park, will position the country as the region's largest producer of battery separators.
INV is a wholly-owned subsidiary of INV Corporation Pte Ltd in Singapore, and part of Shenzen Senior Technology Material Co Ltd — China's second-largest lithium-ion battery separator manufacture.
The newly-launched facility will produce 1.3 billion square metres of wet-processed and coated lithium-ion separators — an essential component in EV battery manufacturing.
The project has generated over 2,000 job opportunities, including more than 550 high-skilled technical roles with wages exceeding RM3,000 a month.
Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, chief executive officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida), said the facility bridges a critical gap in our EV ecosystem and embeds advanced materials into the country’s supply chain.
“It sets a new standard for high-tech manufacturing, while strategically catalysing broader industrial growth, and attracting more global and local players to strengthen Malaysia’s position in the global EV value chain,” he said.
INV’s plant also sets a benchmark in Industry 4.0 adoption. The facility integrates advanced automation, smart manufacturing systems, and digital technologies to maximise operational efficiency and promote sustainable practices.
The launch ceremony was officiated by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
— Bernama
