Melaka Deepens Global Industry Engagement with Strategic Roundtable at SEMICON China 2026

Malacca, 31 March 2026 – In conjunction with SEMICON China 2026, Invest Melaka in collaboration with Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) Shanghai and MayCham China (Shanghai) successfully convened a Business Roundtable themed “Future of Manufacturing in Melaka: Digitalisation, Automation & Precision Engineering” at DoubleTree by Hilton Shanghai Hongqiao on Thursday, 26 March, bringing together 23 participants comprising industry leaders, investors, and ecosystem partners from Malaysia and China.

The roundtable was organised to facilitate focused discussions on industry trends, ASEAN expansion strategies, and how Melaka can support the evolving needs of high-value manufacturing investments. It also provided a platform to encourage direct engagement between Chinese companies and Malaysian stakeholders, strengthening connections that are essential for investment decision-making.

The session was graced by YB Datuk Khaidhirah Binti Abu Zahar, Deputy EXCO of Investment, Industry and TVET Development, State of Melaka, and Datuk Ginie Lim, CEO of Invest Melaka Berhad, alongside Mr Muhammad Sawaddee Islamuddin, Director of Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) Shanghai.

Discussions highlighted growing interest among international companies in expanding into Southeast Asia, with Melaka increasingly recognised for its established semiconductor ecosystem, supported by global industry players such as Texas Instruments, MFS Technology, and other key supply chain participants.

Participants also explored the importance of building a future-ready workforce, with Melaka’s strong emphasis on technical and vocational education and training (TVET) seen as a key enabler in supporting high- value industries. Backed by a coordinated state-level approach, these initiatives are aligned with Malaysia’s broader ambitions under the National Semiconductor Strategy and TVET Policy 2030.

YB Datuk Khaidhirah Binti Abu Zahar, Deputy EXCO of Investment, Industry and TVET Development, State of Melaka, shared: “Melaka continues to strengthen its foundations to support high-value industries, particularly through talent development and a conducive investment environment. As industries evolve, it is important that our ecosystem remains responsive, ensuring that we are able to meet the needs of investors while supporting sustainable industrial growth.”

In addition, the roundtable provided insights into Malaysia’s investment landscape, including facilitation mechanisms and incentives aimed at supporting companies in establishing and scaling their operations efficiently.

The interactive dialogue saw participants raising practical considerations related to market entry, regulatory processes, and ESG compliance, with active participation from Chinese companies across various sectors including TDG Holding Co. Ltd and Trina Solar, reflecting genuine interest in Malaysia and Melaka in particular as a potential base for regional expansion.

Datuk Ginie Lim, CEO of Invest Melaka, said: “Engagements such as this roundtable are important in bridging global industry players with Melaka’s industrial ecosystem. Beyond sharing our value proposition, it allows us to better understand investor needs and how we can facilitate their journey from initial exploration to eventual establishment in Melaka.”

The Business Roundtable underscores Melaka’s continued efforts to engage industry players proactively and to translate global interest into tangible investment opportunities. By aligning industry needs with its growing industrial capabilities, Melaka is reinforcing its position as a competitive and future-ready hub for high-value manufacturing in Southeast Asia.

About Invest Melaka Berhad
Invest Melaka Berhad is the state’s dedicated investment promotion agency responsible for attracting and facilitating both foreign and domestic investments into Melaka. Serving as a one-stop centre for investors, Invest Melaka works closely with government agencies and industry stakeholders to support companies throughout their investment journey from initial enquiries and project facilitation to implementation and aftercare.

The agency also assists with regulatory processes including manufacturing licence applications, facilitates engagement with relevant authorities, and supports site selection within the state’s industrial zones. Invest Melaka is recognized as the first point of contact for investors exploring opportunities in Melaka.

Website : www.investmelaka.gov.my
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/InvestMelakaBerhad
LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/investmelaka

For further information, please contact:
Andy Wong | Assistant Manager (Investment Promotion)
+6011 5505 3312 | [email protected]