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A local solar glass manufacturer launched a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP), covering a 130-acre site. This facility is dedicated to the production of solar photovoltaic glass, a crucial component in solar energy generation. The project is expected to create around 1,400 job opportunities, with a commitment to fill at least 90% of these positions with local Sabahans.
To ensure the workforce is well-prepared for operating this advanced facility, intensive training programs will be implemented. These programs aim to equip local individuals with the skills, knowledge, and expertise needed to excel in their roles within the project, highlighting the company’s commitment to technology and skill development.
The launch ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including the Chief Minister of Sabah and officials from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), the Sabah State Government, the Chairman of Kibing Group, and other key stakeholders. The ceremony underscores the project’s local and national significance.
The Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry Malaysia (MITI) expressed enthusiasm for the company’s substantial RM3-billion expansion through its second manufacturing plant in Sabah. This expansion underscores Malaysia’s role in the complete manufacturing value chain for solar photovoltaics (PVs) and supports the nation’s goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
The CEO of MIDA congratulated the company for its commitment to advancing Malaysia’s glass industry and ecosystem. He highlighted the company’s trust in Malaysia’s capabilities, facilities, and workforce, emphasising that this investment would positively impact Sabah’s economic development.
The company’s Assistant Chief Executive Officer emphasised their commitment to fostering local talent and creating employment opportunities for the community. This strategic investment is expected to drive advancements in the renewable energy sector and contribute to the socio-economic growth of Sabah.
The facility in KKIP is the firm’s second plant in Malaysia, with the first in Negeri Sembilan producing various types of glass since 2017. The company is also involved in silica sand mining and operates a processing plant in Sikuati, Kudat, within Sabah.
Sabah was chosen as the location due to the availability of high-quality raw materials, proximity to the market, and strong support from the Malaysian Government. The project aims to obtain necessary approvals and commence ground construction within seven months from the conclusion of the negotiation period, facilitated by close cooperation between federal and state governments.
The project represents a technological leap in the solar energy sector, with advanced technology for producing high-quality solar photovoltaic glass. It aligns with Malaysia’s ambition to become a key player in the complete manufacturing value chain for solar PVs and supports the nation’s commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The company’s technological focus is evident in both the manufacturing process and training programs for the workforce.
In conclusion, the launch of the company’s manufacturing facility in KKIP is a significant step forward in the renewable energy sector. It not only advances solar technology but also provides substantial economic benefits to Sabah and Malaysia as a whole. This project exemplifies the convergence of technology, innovation, and environmental consciousness for a more sustainable future.
