Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, September 24, 2025 – Federal Express Corporation, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, today announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Penang Development Corporation (PDC) to develop a new logistics facility within the upcoming Penang International Logistics Aeropark (PILA), adjacent to Penang International Airport. The MoU exchange ceremony was witnessed by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow during an official state mission to the EXPO Osaka 2025, underscoring Penang’s strategic role as a gateway for Malaysia’s trade and logistics sector.
As part of the MoU, FedEx will be one of the first global logistics companies to commit to PILA with an investment of approximately RM46 million (around USD11 million). This funding will go towards the construction and equipping of a new 100,000 sq. ft, fully integrated logistics and air cargo facility within the 42-hectare development. Expected to be completed by the end of 2028, the new facility will expand FedEx’s capacity in Penang by integrating freight and express operations under one roof, creating a multiplier effect that gives manufacturers, SMEs, and regional businesses faster and more reliable access to global markets.
“This MoU is not only about infrastructure, but about future-proofing Malaysia’s role in international trade,” said Tien Long Woon, managing director of FedEx Malaysia. “Our investment demonstrates how targeted, high-impact infrastructure can catalyse growth, attract industries, and support Penang’s ambition to remain Malaysia’s top exporting state. By embedding ourselves in PILA, FedEx is strengthening the resilience and agility of the supply chain while supporting the vision of the National Transport Policy 2019–2030 and Penang 2030.”
During the ceremony, Dato’ Aziz Bakar, chief executive officer of Penang Development Corporation said, “PDC warmly welcomes FedEx’s decision to invest and lease space at PILA. We are confident that FedEx’s strengthened presence in Penang will further enhance and reinforce the state’s industrial and trade ecosystem.”
The agreement was preceded by a visit to the FedEx Gateway at Kansai International Airport, where Penang state leaders observed best practises in global express operations to inform the development of PILA.
In 2024, Penang generated RM121.5 billion in gross domestic product (GDP), reflecting a 4.8% year-on-year growth. The state also recorded RM431 billion in exports, accounting for 31.4% of Malaysia’s total exports and reaffirming its position as the country’s top exporting state.
For more than 30 years, FedEx has strengthened Malaysia’s logistics network, enabling businesses to connect more efficiently to global markets and advancing the country’s role in international trade. Earlier this year, FedEx enhanced its inbound service to Johor, enabling customers to receive import shipments from Asia, Europe, and the U.S. up to two hours earlier than before.
In 2025, Malaysia’s Pharmaceutical Market revenue is expected to reach US$1.74 billion. For any company looking to tap into this lucrative market, understanding the local regulatory landscape is the first and most critical step. This landscape is primarily governed by the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984 (“CDCR 1984”), enforced by the Drug Control Authority (“DCA”) under the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (“NPRA”) of the Ministry of Health.
According to Regulation of the CDCR 1984, “product” is defined as a drug in a dosage unit or otherwise, for use wholly or mainly by being administered to one or more human beings or animals for a medicinal purpose. For instance, biologics, generic drugs, including prescription medicines and Over The Counter (OTC) products, traditional medicines, veterinary products, and health supplements all fall under the purview of the CDCR 1984.
This article aims to present a general overview of the legally mandated processes for product registration, regulatory compliance, and post-registration obligations.
Policy shifts and trade regulations continue to shape how businesses operate across ASEAN, making timely updates and expert perspectives critical.
On 24 September, AMCHAM welcomed Dr. Deborah Elms, Head of Trade Policy at the Hinrich Foundation, for a special discussion on trade and tariffs. She unpacked recent developments, including the ripple effects of tariff policies from the Trump administration, and outlined what these changes mean for the business community in the months ahead.
Attendees appreciated the opportunity to engage directly with Dr. Elms, gaining clarity on pressing issues and strategies for navigating the evolving trade environment.
A big thank you to Dr. Elms for leading such an informative and engaging session.
INNOVATE YOUR DATA CENTER
Driving Efficiency, Resiliency, and Sustainability
Wednesday, 24 September 2025
10:30 A.M. – 5:30 P.M. Malaysia Time
Fun Room 3, Moxy Putrajaya Hotel, Malaysia
REGISTER NOW
Our newest generation of Industrial Data Centers will help you move your business forward, providing you with the scalability and flexibility needed to accommodate growing workloads, new applications, and changing business requirements. From on-premises to the cloud, we leverage world-class advisory, consulting, and delivery services with global scale to transform infrastructure from an operational necessity to a competitive advantage.
- Future-Ready Datacenter Insights – Discover cutting-edge trends like uptime assurance, cloud-edge solutions, smart energy use, and sustainable AI integration shaping tomorrow’s datacenters.
- Thought Leadership & Expert Panels – Engage with key voices in the industry through impactful sessions, panels, and fireside chats.
- Connect, Share & Grow – Enjoy meaningful interactions with peers, innovators, and decision-makers.
AGENDA
| 10.00m – 10.30am | Registration | |
| 10.30am | Welcome Speech | |
| 10:45am – 12:30pm | The Data Center Revolution FIRESIDE CHAT : Collaboration Meets Innovation Challenges in Data Center | |
| 12:30pm – 1:30pm | Networking Lunch | |
| 1:30pm – 3.30pm | PANEL : Our Next Chapter DUO Power-Up Your Data Center Design to Deployment | |
| 3:30pm – 4.00pm | Afternoon Tea Break | |
| 4.00pm – 5.30pm | The Role of AI in Achieving Green Data Center Ask Me Anything | |
| 5.30pm – 7.30pm | Networking Cocktails & Dinner | |
AMCHAM’s Leadership Series spotlights the various members of the Chamber taking on a leadership role either within a committee or on the board. This series serves as a platform for leaders to share their perspectives on being part of AMCHAM’s leadership.
We are proud to feature Fabian Er, Director, Samtec Asia Pacific (M) Sdn Bhd, and the Chair of AMCHAM’s Johor Network (AJN). In this interview, Fabian introduces what is the AJN, the role it plays for our members in Johor.
Introducing the AMCHAM Johor Network (AJN) Committee
The AMCHAM Johor Network (AJN), established in 2020, is a committee comprising member companies based in Johor. It serves as a collaborative forum where members meet regularly to discuss and advocate for key business issues, particularly those affecting operations in Johor and Malaysia more broadly. In addition to its advocacy role, AJN acts as a vital platform for AMCHAM to engage with and strengthen relationships among local companies and government agencies operating in the region.
Chair: Fabian Er, Director, Samtec Asia Pacific (M) Sdn Bhd
Overview of the AJN
- Advocate for Business Interests: Serve as a unified voice for Johor-based members on key business and regulatory issues affecting operations in the region.
- Strengthen Local Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with local government agencies, industry stakeholders, and the broader Johor business community.
- Facilitate Information Exchange: Provide a platform for members to share insights, best practices, and updates on regional developments impacting their businesses.
- Can you share about your professional background and your role as Chair of the AMCHAM’s Johor Network (AJN)?
I joined Samtec Asia Pacific (M) Sdn Bhd as the HR Manager in 2014 and am now the Regional HR Director for Samtec Inc in Asia Pacific Region.
I am also the local Company Director for Samtec Asia Pacific (M) Sdn Bhd and Samtec Plating Malaysia Sdn Bhd. A Malaysian by nationality, I received my tertiary education in Australia from Monash University.
Prior to joining Samtec, I was based out of Singapore, India and Cambodia for listed companies in the region. I also spent my formative years with Sime Darby in Kuala Lumpur.
In my current portfolio, i oversee the HR, Trade Compliance and Government Relations functions for Samtec in APAC.
As the Chair for AJN, my role revolves on maintaining and growing the network of American companies based in Johor. The committee’s main objective remains to be providing an avenue for all members to connect and find synergies when there are issues and the chair provides avenues together with the AMCHAM team.
- What does the AMCHAM’s Johor Network (AJN) focus on, and why is it important to AMCHAM and its members?
AJN focuses on maintaining a network for American companies operating in Johor to share and to communicate. When there are matters where it involves a group of companies, AJN can be galvanized to meet with the relevant local authorities and get an amicable solution.
- Tell us more about the upcoming AMCHAM’s Johor Network (AJN) and what members can expect from it.
With the development of the SEZ and the soon to be completed RTS to Singapore, Johor is going to be a focal state for growth, and it is expected that there will be further opportunities and challenges for member companies. It is imperative that the member companies continue to communicate and maintain a network so that there is strength in numbers when addressing key issues. AMCHAM will be reconnecting with JCORP in the coming weeks to strengthen collaboration on talent development in the Johor region, with discussions focused on enhancing skills and workforce capabilities to support Johor’s growth as a hub for competitive and future-ready talent.
- Why should members attend this event, and how can they benefit from joining the discussion?
Ongoing discussions with Johor Corporation (JCORP) – Members can benefit by gaining a clearer understanding of the current talent pipeline in Johor and exploring how we can better align industry needs with the region’s talent supply, ensuring a more sustainable and competitive workforce for the future.
- What would you say to AMCHAM members considering joining the AMCHAM’s Johor Network (AJN)?
The COVID years taught us a valuable lesson that there is strength in numbers. Join us to know what is going on and to learn from others in the network on how to navigate the unique Johor environment.
- What is your Quote for the AMCHAM AJN?
Together we are stronger
United Airline’s 100,000+ employees help 140 million customers get to nearly 370 destinations across six continents each year.
Denver International Airport (DEN) is the fastest growing hub with a total of 90 gates available, more than any other airline in the world.
