Motorola to expand Malaysian plant

Motorola Inc. plans to invest roughly $110 million by expanding a plant and hiring more workers in Penang, Malaysia.

The Schaumburg-based communications company organized an event Tuesday morning at its plant in Bayan Lepas Industrial Zone with the Penang chief minister and local dignitaries. The company aims to hire more workers and boost research and development there for its digital two-way radios, other communications devices and accessories.

The Star in Malaysia reported that the investment would create about 700 engineering jobs there. Motorola spokeswoman Jennifer Erickson said the company was not providing the number of hires.

Motorola has been in Malaysia about 30 years, she said.

"This commitment reflects Motorola's position as a strong and long-term investor, as well as, a committed employer in the country," Erickson said.

Penang is Motorola's largest manufacturing site for two-way radios in Asia and the only design center for two-way radios in the region.

Motorola's prime focus is to strongly promote "Made in Malaysia" products developed and manufactured in Penang for the global markets and Malaysia.

Motorola has already invested about $1.2 billion in Malaysia.

Motorola was recently awarded a major public safety mission for critical communications solutions, a recognition from the Malaysian government.