ABSTRACT
Over the years, interest in the electrical and electronics (E&E) industry has continued to grow significantly bringing with it substantial economic contributions. This chapter discusses the development, competitive advantages and challenges of the E&E industry in Penang, Malaysia, for the past 50 years. As the E&E has been and still is the pillar of expansion for Penang’s overall export growth, it is timely to dedicate a purposeful research on this sector. Our findings suggest the existence of both competitive advantages as well as formidable challenges by conducting an in-depth analysis on the development trends in the E&E industry in Penang from 1970 to 2022. The significance of this study will add to the aggregate knowledge about the current E&E sector and relating the findings with the competitive advantages and challenges facing the sector in Penang. In the perspective of practical contributions, this study will also provide a useful guide for policymakers and investors to better know about the E&E sector and minimize the obstacles that may hinder further dynamic growth. Therefore, the future competitiveness and continued viability of this pivotally important industry heavily depend on the knowledge gained by this study and other subsequent research efforts, all of which we believe will reaffirm the strong relevance of this industry to Penang.
