GEORGE TOWN, March 8 -- Lam Research Corporation is set to start operations of its new RM1 billion facility in Penang to serve as its Asian hub by the second half of 2021.

The facility is expected to be the company's largest production facility, with a 700,000 sq ft built-up area when completed.

The facility, which will feature a highly advanced production line with the latest automation capabilities, will also be hiring about 350 employees by the end of the year.

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who witnessed the virtual Lam Research Malaysia roof topping out ceremony today, said Lam Research is the first wafer fabrication equipment maker to set up their business operations with a manufacturing plant in Malaysia.

"Being one of th...