Menicon from Japan invested RM650 million in Kulim Hi-Tech Park

<Kulim Hi-Tech Park>

Japan-based Menicon Co Ltd, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Menicon Malaysia, has invested RM650 million (18 billion yen) to set up its first manufacturing plant at Kulim Hi-Tech Park in Kedah, Malaysia to daily produce disposable contact lenses.

In a joint statement with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), they said the strategic investment would see the construction of a new production facility covering a site of 200,000 square meters.

"The 45,000-square-meter plant floor area will be built in line with the sustainable development goals (SDGs). Eco-friendly features such as solar panels will be installed to use renewable energy as well as eaves to prevent room temperature rise," according to both parties. concerned.

"The plant in particular, is expected to require nearly 100 staff once production is scheduled to begin in 2025, which will put Malaysia at the forefront as a global hub for quality investment while creating high – value jobs.“

Senior Minister and Minister of International Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali said Menicon's decision to set up an auto plant here was a testament to Malaysia's ability to meet the high demand of regulated industries such as medical devices.

"These investments meet our National Investment Aspirations, particularly in creating greater economic challenges and high value employment opportunities for Malaysians. In addition, Menicon's commitment to sustainability practices in the design and construction of their plants coincides with ESG (environmental, social and governance) Malaysia for greener investment efforts, "he added.

MIDA Chief Executive Officer Datuk Arham Abdul Rahman said "MIDA worked closely with Menicon throughout the pandemic to realize their investment successfully."

"These ongoing facilities include a one -stop center for business travelers, which allows investors to come to Malaysia for their investment efforts in an effort to minimize disruption to the economy and revitalize trade and investment in our country," he added.

"We are optimistic that Menicon's investment will be another big step forward for Malaysia and the company's growth here will benefit our local medical device industry and the public."