Penang is set to strengthen its position as a global hub for Integrated Circuit (IC) Design and Digital Technologies with the upcoming completion of GBS By The Sea. Scheduled for completion on 1st December 2024, this state-of-the-art office building is designed to accommodate three prominent design, research and development (R&D), and engineering services centres.

GBS By The Sea is a significant part of the Penang IC Design and Digital Park, launched on 4th May 2024. The park offers one million square feet of premium office space for high-impact activities such as IC Design, R&D, Digital Global Business Services (DGBS), and digital technologies investments. This nine-storey seafront building provides a net lettable area of 294,000 square feet and includes 830 parking bays.

Notably, GBS By The Sea features two 11kV power substations, making it the first building in Malaysia with such advanced infrastructure. Additionally, the building boasts a floor loading capacity of 5KN/m2, ideal for housing IC design and R&D companies. It also meets the standards of a Malaysia Digital building (formerly Multimedia Super Corridor Cybercentre), highlighting its premium facilities and technological capabilities.

The building will be fully occupied by AMD, Celestica, and a major U.S. tech giant. AMD is expanding its GBS and engineering expertise, while Celestica will establish its first Malaysia R&D and Design and Development center in Penang. The building is expected to create approximately 2,000-3,000 high-value jobs.

“Penang is set to become a catalyst for Malaysia to ascend the value chain and cement its position as the preferred investment destination for high-end activities in the region. We are committed to advancing technology, industry, and the economy to enhance the state’s competitiveness globally. Through Penang’s sustainable ecosystem, the State Government is confident that we are well-positioned to realize this vision,” said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

As Penang continues to thrive as a hub for DGBS and Centres of Excellence (CoE), the availability of premium office space is essential for attracting multinational companies. The Penang IC Design and Digital Park is dedicated to providing top-tier infrastructure and facilities, fostering an ideal working environment for businesses and residents. Planned enhancements include pedestrian-friendly walkways, bicycle lanes, park-and-ride facilities, outdoor recreational spaces, and local eateries. To promote environmentally friendly connectivity, shared micromobility services like electronic scooters and bicycles will be introduced. The semi-automated food court Bayana, located within walking distance of GBS By The Sea, offers convenient dining options.

Penang is committed to developing high-end office spaces to attract and retain top-tier businesses and talent. Over the past 30 years, Penang has attracted 28 IC design companies, including industry giants such as Intel, AMD, Oppstar Technology, SkyeChip, Infinecs Systems, Microchip, UST Global, Lattice, and Synopsys. Moving forward, Penang continues to develop world-class infrastructure, solidifying its position as a leading destination for business excellence and growth in the region.