By Chan Wei Chao (REN 39846), Team Leader, Bricksmen Team · IQI Realty Sdn. Bhd. · Updated 13 November 2026
German life sciences company Eppendorf SE has broken ground on a €40 million manufacturing plant at Bandar Cassia Technology Park, Batu Kawan. It is the company’s first production site in South-East Asia. The groundbreaking was announced on 12 November 2026 in a joint statement by Eppendorf, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and InvestPenang.
The key facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Company | Eppendorf SE, a German maker of laboratory products. It has had a Kuala Lumpur office since 1995 |
| Investment | €40 million. EdgeProp put this at RM180.92 million; other reports round it to about RM190 million |
| Location | Bandar Cassia Technology Park, Batu Kawan. The site was leased from Penang Development Corporation (PDC) in July 2026 |
| Site | About 48,500 sq m (about 11.98 acres), with about 16,000 sq m of planned built-up space |
| Products | Selected products from its Centrifuges & Instruments range, for laboratories worldwide |
| Jobs | About 130 employees by the end of 2029 |
| Timeline | Building and equipment move-in by end-2027; production starts gradually in 2028 and ramps up through 2030 |
| Green features | Targeting LEED Gold, with solar panels, energy-efficient systems, EV charging and water retention |
What was said
- Dr Christine Munz, Eppendorf CEO: the site is “a strong commitment to Penang” and will be an important new pillar in its global manufacturing network.
- Chow Kon Yeow, Penang Chief Minister: the project supports Penang’s move into higher-value industries, including scientific and measuring equipment.
- Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, MIDA CEO: the investment fits the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and will support skilled jobs and local suppliers.
What it means for homebuyers
Batu Kawan has been adding factories steadily. About 130 jobs is a modest number for one plant, so it will not change housing demand on its own. It adds to a longer trend of more skilled jobs in Bandar Cassia and the nearby industrial parks. If you are buying in Batu Kawan:
- Look at the timing. Production only starts in 2028 and ramps up to 2030, so any extra rental demand will build slowly.
- Check the supply too. Batu Kawan has many projects under construction. Compare prices and completion dates before you decide.
- Buy for your own needs first. Factory news is a plus, but location, price and the developer matter more.
Projects in Bandar Cassia on our site:
| Project | Type | From (SPA) | Completion |
|---|---|---|---|
| AndaBreeze Residences | Serviced residence, 636 to 1,280 sq ft | RM446,000 | 2030 |
| SEIRAS | Condominium, 1,033 sq ft dual-key and triple-key | RM609,000 | Q1 2028 |
| Anggun Residences | Condominium, 1,045 and 1,400 sq ft | RM683,000 | Completed |
| Eco Sun Everine | Two-storey terrace, 1,739 to 1,912 sq ft | RM740,800 | Q4 2028 |
Prices are developer SPA prices and change with availability. See all Batu Kawan projects, our project reviews, or industrial properties if you need space for your own business. For more on the area’s factories, read our report on the Penang industrial forum.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Eppendorf plant?
At Bandar Cassia Technology Park in Batu Kawan, Penang.
How much is Eppendorf investing?
€40 million. EdgeProp put this at RM180.92 million; other reports round it to about RM190 million.
When will it start production?
Production is due to start gradually in 2028 and increase in phases through 2030.
How many jobs will it create?
About 130 by the end of 2029.
Looking at homes in Batu Kawan?
I can send you the latest price lists and unit availability. WhatsApp or call +60 10-313 9113.
Sources
- EdgeProp: Eppendorf breaks ground on RM180.92m Penang plant
- The Star: Eppendorf breaks ground on €40mil manufacturing plant in Penang
- Penang Property Talk: Eppendorf breaks ground on RM190mil facility in Bandar Cassia
This article is general information based on published reports as of 13 November 2026. It is not investment advice; project prices are developer SPA prices and depend on availability.