SBH Kibing Solar New Materials (M) Sdn Bhd has officially opened its new manufacturing facility at the Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP) on November 1st, marking a significant milestone in its RM3 billion investment plan.

In a joint statement, SBH Kibing Solar and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) announced that the state-of-the-art plant will specialize in the production of solar photovoltaic (PV) glass and is set to generate 1,400 employment opportunities, with a firm commitment to ensuring that at least 90 percent of these positions are filled by Sabahans.

The statement further detailed that comprehensive training programs will be rolled out for the incoming workforce to ensure a seamless operation of the new facility.

The launch ceremony was graced by Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and was attended by officials from MIDA and the Sabah state government, including Kibing Group chairman Yu Qibing.

Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, the Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, welcomed SBH Kibing Solar's RM3 billion expansion through the establishment of its second manufacturing plant in Sabah. He emphasized that this investment reflects the company's confidence in Malaysia as an attractive investment hub and in the nation's sustainable manufacturing and green economy policies, as highlighted by the recently unveiled New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030).

Tengku Zafrul noted that this significant investment in the new plant reaffirms Malaysia's position as a key player in the complete manufacturing value chain for solar PVs, while also supporting Malaysia's goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

MIDA's CEO, Datuk Wira Arham Abdul Rahman, expressed optimism that the new solar photovoltaic glass manufacturing facility will serve as a guiding beacon for the entire industry, inspiring others to follow its path and contribute to Malaysia's collective progress and achievements. He also highlighted the positive impact of this investment on Sabah, including the transfer of technology and job creation, which will boost Sabah's growth as a thriving manufacturing center and stimulate its economic development.

Meanwhile, Yao XinXi, assistant CEO of Kibing Group, emphasized the company's dedication to producing top-quality solar glass, nurturing local talent, and providing employment opportunities for the community. He stated that their commitment to technology, innovation, and sustainability will ensure that the plant operates at the highest standards.