AI-enabled manufacturing supports Penang’s move into higher-value segments of the global semiconductor value chain. Photo Credit: AdobeStock/newlifestock
Penang’s growing industry strengths in robotics and AI-enabled manufacturing will take centre stage at the 4th International Conference on Intelligent Manufacturing and Robotics (ICiMR 2026), as the state moves further up the global semiconductor value chain.
Hosted by Wawasan Open University (WOU) on 3 and 4 November 2026, ICiMR 2026 aims to advance intelligent manufacturing within Penang’s established electrical and electronics and manufacturing ecosystems. The conference is supported by the Penang State Government through the Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau.
ICiMR 2026 will cover smart factories, digital twin technology, the Industrial Internet of Things, predictive maintenance, robotics, artificial intelligence, workforce training and the technology readiness of small and medium-sized enterprises.
According to WOU Chief Executive and Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ts. Dr. Yap Eng Hwa, these areas are vital to improving productivity, manufacturing flexibility, operational resilience, quality, sustainability and workforce capabilities. A call for papers closes on 1 October 2026.
Prof. Yap said Penang is moving into higher-value capabilities such as IC design, validation, advanced packaging and AI-enabled manufacturing, making the state a relevant setting for international research collaboration in intelligent manufacturing and robotics. This relevance is reinforced by Penang’s dense concentration of multinational corporations, local manufacturers, technology firms and engineering specialists.
Penang recorded RM22.4 billion (US$5.53 billion) in approved manufacturing investments across 232 projects in 2025, reflecting investor confidence as local manufacturers increasingly adopt artificial intelligence, robotics, automation and data-driven production.