US firm, QES to jointly set up high-tech plant
KUALA LUMPUR: United Statesbased Applied Engineering (AE) will set up a joint-venture (JV) with Malaysian partner QES Manufacturing Sdn Bhd to set up a plant in the Batu Kawan Industrial Park later this year.
Both parties signed an agreement to establish Applied Engineering Technology (M) Sdn Bhd (AET) to provide high-tech electromechanical contract manufacturing services.
The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) said in a statement yesterday this ranged from prototyping to high volume, through its new product introduction process and advanced custom solutions.
“The JV aims to cater to the specific needs of clients in the semiconductor equipment manufacturing, life science and medical devices, defence and aerospace market segments, not only in Malaysia but also Asean and China.”
The proposed initial investment for AET is RM5 million, with an initial workforce of 20 comprising mainly engineers and technicians. The investment is set to expand up to RM20 million over the next three years.
The company looks to kickstart its operations in a temporary premises before moving to its new factory in the fourth quarter of next year.
Mida chief executive officer Arham Abdul Rahman said the electrical and electronics and related services industries continued to assume a critical role in Malaysia’s industrial development.
“Over the years, Malaysia has developed a reputable skilled talent pool, facilitative investment environment and integration with international supply chains.”
AE president Jack Yao said Malaysia would provide the launching pad to service major customers in Asia Pacific.
“AE will bring its latest generation of high-end technologies to Malaysia and build a whole new technology sector.”
QES Group Bhd president Chew Ne Weng said it would support the project using its established networks.