GEORGE TOWN, April 24 -- Penang is strengthening its position as a key hub for automation, test and equipment (ATE) within Malaysia's semiconductor industry with the launch of a new industry-led ATE campus.

Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state has the highest concentration of ATE companies and ecosystem partners in the country.

"Within this ecosystem, Penang hosts more than 20 local ATE companies and over 80 automation, precision engineering, and component firms," he said in his opening address at the launch of the ATE Campus in Olive Tree Hotel here.

He said many of these companies have grown into strong technology players in which 19 Penang-based companies are listed on Bursa Malaysia, with a combined market capitalisat...