Shenzhen, China | 10–14 November 2025
Digital Penang, together with seven selected Malaysian startups, embarked on a five-day DeepTech Exposure Visit to Shenzhen, China — one of the world’s most dynamic deep-tech and innovation hubs. The expedition was designed to provide startups with firsthand exposure to cutting-edge technologies, scalable innovation models, and cross-border collaboration opportunities within China’s advanced technology ecosystem.
Spanning visits to global technology companies, innovation parks, universities, and international matchmaking platforms, the journey offered invaluable insights into how deep-tech solutions are developed, commercialised, and scaled at a global level.
Day 1: Global DeepTech Leaders in Robotics and Advanced Manufacturing
The expedition commenced with visits to two global technology leaders — SROD Robotics and Formlabs — setting a strong foundation for the learning journey.
At SROD Robotics, the delegation explored advanced inspection and service robots deployed across more than 40 countries. Participants gained insights into how robotics systems integrate mechanical engineering, sensor technologies, and artificial intelligence to support industrial operations and urban infrastructure at scale.
The visit to Formlabs, a pioneer in professional 3D printing, highlighted how the company bridges global R&D capabilities with China’s manufacturing ecosystem. Discussions focused on accessibility, precision engineering, and how advanced manufacturing accelerates hardware innovation and commercial readiness.
Day 1 offered startups an inspiring introduction to world-class innovation, demonstrating how deep-tech solutions move from concept to global deployment.
Day 2: From Startup to Scale — AI and Robotics Excellence
The learning journey continued with a visit to WDC Robots Innovation Intelligence Co., Ltd, a leading artificial intelligence and robotics company. The session provided participants with a firsthand look at WDC’s evolution from a startup into an established deep-tech leader.
Delegates explored WDC’s innovation culture, AI-driven automation technologies, and scaling strategies, gaining valuable perspectives on building sustainable deep-tech enterprises. The visit sparked meaningful discussions on collaboration opportunities between Penang startups and Shenzhen’s robotics ecosystem, with mutual interest expressed in further engagement at the Penang DeepTech Summit 2026.
Strengthening China–Malaysia Startup and Talent Exchange
On the same day, Digital Penang continued its engagement with a visit to the TusStar Shenzhen Office for the Taishan–Shenzhen–Malaysia Talents Project Matchmaking Conference and China–Malaysia Startup Exchange.
The B2B session focused on:
- Exploring market expansion and collaboration opportunities
- Exchanging best practices in innovation and commercialisation
- Strengthening cross-regional ecosystem linkages
The session was honoured by the presence of representatives from Taishan Municipal authorities and TusStar leadership from both China and Malaysia. The discussions reinforced shared commitments to cross-border innovation, talent mobility, and startup collaboration between Malaysia and China.
Day 3: Industrial Innovation and Smart Manufacturing
Day 3 deepened the delegation’s understanding of industrial innovation through visits to Guangming Science City Industrial Development Group and Leadshine Technology Co., Ltd.
At Guangming Science City, discussions focused on the role of innovation parks in supporting the full innovation chain — from R&D and technology transfer to industrial investment and policy support. The session explored how international startups can access resources, incentives, and infrastructure within China’s innovation zones.
In the afternoon, the delegation visited Leadshine Technology, a global leader in motion control solutions for industrial automation, robotics, and CNC machinery. The session provided insights into smart manufacturing innovations and opened discussions on potential collaboration in robotics and Southeast Asian market expansion.
These visits underscored the importance of strong industry–ecosystem linkages in scaling deep-tech innovation globally.
DeepTech & AI Immersion with Zhuoshi Technology
The expedition continued with an in-depth visit to Zhuoshi (Shenzhen) Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd, a leading AI company recognised for its full-stack capabilities — from AI algorithms and intelligent hardware to system-level integration.
Participants gained insights into:
- Advanced AI technologies and intelligent hardware design
- Zhuoshi’s scaling journey from startup to industry leader
- Real-world applications across smart security, industrial automation, IoT, healthcare, and robotics
The session opened opportunities for potential collaboration, co-development, pilot projects, and a possible invitation for Zhuoshi to participate in the DeepTech Summit next year.
Day 4: University–Industry Collaboration with Tsinghua University
On Day 4, the delegation was warmly welcomed by representatives from Tsinghua University, where discussions focused on how the university systematically nurtures and commercialises hard-tech innovation.
Key learnings included:
- Incubation structures from ideation to Pre-A stage
- Funding models and application pathways for foreign startups
- Technology transfer and collaboration opportunities
The delegation also met Yuuge AI, a startup founded by a Tsinghua student entrepreneur that successfully scaled from zero to millions in revenue. The session provided practical insights into startup growth, funding, and ecosystem support, contributing valuable input for strengthening Digital Penang’s SP500 programm
Day 5: Expanding Market Access and Industry Connections
The expedition concluded with a visit to the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center, where the delegation explored Shandong’s technology landscape, particularly in new energy and energy storage sectors.
A key highlight was the participation of all seven Penang startups in the Shandong Enterprises Going Global 2025: International Procurement Matchmaking Conference. Through direct B2B sessions, startups engaged with Chinese enterprises, gaining exposure to procurement needs, supply chain readiness, manufacturing capabilities, and market expansion opportunities.
Conclusion: Building Pathways for Global DeepTech Growth
The DeepTech Exposure Visit to Shenzhen marked a significant milestone in strengthening China–Malaysia innovation collaboration. Through strategic visits, knowledge exchange, and business matchmaking, the expedition equipped Malaysian startups with critical insights, global perspectives, and tangible pathways for collaboration and expansion.
More importantly, the journey reinforced Digital Penang’s commitment to enabling startups to connect with global ecosystems, accelerate innovation, and scale deep-tech solutions beyond borders.
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