Kerry Logistics Network Limited, a logistics service provider in Asia, opened its first IT development center in Penang, Malaysia, recently, to harness internet technology in support of its rapidly growing international operations.

In tandem with its business expansion in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond is the rising demand for IT application systems and support. As part of its overall IT development strategy, Kerry Logistics will use the new Penang facility as an offshore support center to share resources amongst different offices globally, in a bid to increase operational efficiency at lower costs.

Penang’s economy has been developing at a stunning rate for the past 10 years, making it one of the fastest growing states in Malaysia. Over the years, Penang has attracted investments from multinational corporations and has built up its reputation as the Silicon Valley of the East.

“The Penang government has played an important role in promoting the IT development of this city, making it one of the preferred Asia technology bases of many international IT giants,” said George Yeo, chairman of Kerry Logistics, at the opening ceremony. “Establishing our IT development center in this dynamic city will provide us readily available local IT resources, a strong pool of multilingual talents, and good infrastructure support.”

“It is with great honor that we add Kerry Logistics to the growing list of leading edge, innovative companies in Penang,” said Lim Guan Eng, chief minister of Penang. “Kerry Logistics’ global presence and experience in the logistics arena will help strengthen Penang’s position as a regional logistics and IT hub. The rapid expansion plan of Kerry Logistics in Penang will also provide development opportunities for our local talents in gaining international exposure.”

Kerry Logistics aspires to lead in internet solutions by combining IT and big data technology with its strong business and operational knowledge to help clients boost supply chain efficiency and timeliness to market, said Yeo.