Syntiant Corp, a US-based global provider of low-power artificial intelligence solutions, has officially opened its new USD 15 million (MYR 60.8 million) manufacturing and R&D campus in Penang state. This investment covers the construction of the new facility, the installation of advanced equipment, and the headcount costs for 800 workers in 2026. The expansion follows a strategic investment from Khazanah Nasional Berhad, Malaysia’s sovereign wealth fund and fulfills a commitment to establish an AI research and development center within Malaysia.
The new campus more than doubles Syntiant’s footprint in Penang to 220,000 square feet. This facility integrates production, engineering, and AI research in a single location to support the development of next-generation semiconductor solutions. By combining world-class manufacturing with cutting-edge research, the plant is expected to eventually double the current annual production capacity to 1.6 billion units. The site features specialized capabilities in micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) processing, IC preparation, and advanced test and assembly operations.
The expansion marked as a landmark investment that positions Malaysia at the forefront of embodied AI and advanced semiconductor innovation. The project aligns with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 by anchoring high-value technical activities locally and creating quality jobs for the Malaysian workforce. Following its 2024 acquisition of the Knowles Consumer MEMS Microphone business, Syntiant has significantly strengthened its portfolio in intelligent sensing. The company develops ultra-low-power AI solutions for IoT, automotive, and industrial applications with a global shipment history exceeding 20 billion MEMS microphones.
(Sources: Syntiant; Malaysian Investment Development Authority)
