Kulim Hi-Tech Park has attracted big name investors from all over the world

Hi-tech park draws in the big names
Cybercity

Officially recognised as a cybercity, the state-of-the-art Kulim High-Tech Park (KHTP) in Kedah is a showcase for the nation’s IT sector and related industries. Launched in 1996, the country’s first high tech industrial complex has grown to become a fully integrated business and knowledge zone.

Big name investors from all over the world have a presence, with interests ranging from advanced electronics and biotechnology through to telecommunications and semiconductors. This has brought in a cumulative investment total of approximately $6 billion to date.

The park, which forms part of the government’s 2020 development strategy, was set up to be the “Science City of the Future.” Medical and educational establishments take up some of its vast 4,000 acres of space in the north-west of Peninsular Malaysia. In addition to industries involved in integrated circuit design activities, the science park is also home to a state-of-the art Techno Centre engaged in biotechnology.

The park is changing with the times and evolving with the global market. New areas of interest that have stirred investors include optoelectronics and alternative energy technologies.

Dato’ Ahmad Shukri Tajuddin, Kulim Technology Park’s Group Chief Executive Officer, says the project builds on Malaysia’s earlier strengths in areas like semi-conductors and electronics. “In view of this and our strategic location we have been able to draw high-end semiconductor industries into the park ranging from the cutting and polishing of wafers to the fabrication of wafers, and the design of houses.”

Dato´ Ahmad Shukri Tajuddin Group CEO of Kulim Technology Park

Sited just 17 miles from the North Butterworth Container Terminal and 28 miles from Bayan Lepas International Airport, Kulim High Tech Park has become a big draw for investors seeking ICT export opportunities out of southeast Asia.

Another primary attraction is the park’s pro-business environment, which appeals greatly to would-be investors. “The KHTP local authority is formed inside the park to simplify and expedite many business processes,” says Dato’ Ahmad. “They are also here to take care of the aesthetics of the park’s environment.”

Sub-divided into six dedicated zones, the park is meticulously planned in all details. As demand has grown, so too has the size of the park and the level of facilities, a process that is still unfolding. At its core is the industrial zone together with a dedicated research and development area. These are supported by an institutional zone, a separate residential and commercial district, plus an urban zone, which includes the town centre, and an amenity and recreational zone.

It is a template that has clearly worked, with KHTP winning a number of awards in recent years for excellence in areas such as science and innovation and R&D. Dato’ Ahmad believes these reflect the high international standard at which the park operates. “These awards show that we excel in what we do, and this helps us a lot in promoting the park as a centre of investment for this region,” he says.