$75.7 Million: Melexis Unveils its Largest Wafer Testing Facility in Malaysia

Kuching's location in Southeast Asia offers logistical advantages. It provides easier access to both Eastern and Western markets for efficient distribution.

Introduction

Melexis, a leading microelectronics engineering company, has inaugurated a $75.7 million wafer testing facility in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

This new site is the largest in Melexis’ global network, marking a significant step in the company’s efforts to meet the escalating global demand for semiconductors and reinforce its presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

Focus on Edge Technology:

The facility specifically focuses on testing edge sensors and edge drivers. These components play a crucial role in various applications like:

  • Mobility: Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), electric vehicle battery management
  • Sustainability: Smart grids, renewable energy systems
  • Robotics: Industrial automation, autonomous systems
  • Healthcare: Wearable medical devices, medical imaging
Advanced Testing Capabilities:

The 90 test machines likely include a variety of equipment for comprehensive IC evaluation. This could involve testing for parameters like:

  • Functional performance: Ensuring the IC functions as designed
  • Electrical characteristics: Measuring voltage, current, and power consumption
  • Environmental resilience: Testing for temperature extremes, vibrations, and other stresses
Sustainable Design:

The 30,000 kWh solar installation is a significant step towards reducing the facility’s carbon footprint. This could potentially generate a substantial portion of the building’s energy needs. The design incorporates advanced energy-saving systems, further minimizing their environmental impact.

Strategic Location:

Kuching’s location in Southeast Asia offers logistical advantages. It provides easier access to both Eastern and Western markets for efficient distribution. Being situated near X-FAB’s wafer foundry streamlines the supply chain. This reduces transportation needs and potential delays, contributing to a more sustainable operation.

Future-Proof Design:
  • The four-story building with a 4,500 square meter footprint offers ample space for future expansion. This allows Melexis to adapt to the growing demand for semiconductor testing as technology advances.

Overall, the Melexis Wafer Testing Facility in Kuching is a significant investment in the future of semiconductor testing. It positions them to be a major player in the Asia-Pacific region, catering to the growing demand for advanced edge technologies while keeping sustainability in mind.

This milestone expansion underscores Melexis’ commitment to meeting the burgeoning global demand for semiconductors and fortifying its presence in the dynamic Asia-Pacific market.

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Why Malaysia?

For over three decades, Melexis has been a leader in chip design, specializing in integrated circuits (ICs) powering everything from cars and robots to healthcare devices

Choosing Malaysia for their biggest testing facility wasn’t random. It’s a strategic move to ramp up production and meet the ever-growing demand for semiconductors worldwide.

Background and Significance

With over 35 years of expertise, Melexis has been at the forefront of innovation in semiconductor technologies, specializing in advanced Integrated Circuits (ICs) that power applications across mobility, sustainability, robotics, and healthcare sectors. The company’s decision to establish its largest wafer testing site in Malaysia reflects its strategic vision to enhance production capacity and efficiency amid escalating global semiconductor demands

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What’s So Special About This Facility?

This state-of-the-art testing ground boasts cutting-edge technology. By incorporating advanced 3D chip solutions and innovative wafer-to-wafer bonding techniques, Melexis aims to optimize the performance and integration of radio frequency (RF) front-end modules. This breakthrough is a game-changer for 5G deployment, addressing space limitations and performance needs. It also cements Melexis’ position at the forefront of chip innovation.

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Importance of the Expansion

The opening of Melexis’ state-of-the-art facility in Kuching marks a significant leap forward in semiconductor testing capabilities. By integrating cutting-edge 3D IC solutions and leveraging advanced wafer-to-wafer bonding techniques, Melexis aims to optimize the performance and integration of RF front-end modules. This advancement is crucial as it addresses critical challenges in 5G deployment, such as space constraints and performance requirements, while positioning Melexis as a leader in semiconductor innovation.

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Sustainable and Future-Ready Infrastructure

Designed by award-winning architects, the new 4-storey building spans 4,500 square meters and draws inspiration from local longhouse architecture. It incorporates advanced energy-saving systems and a robust solar installation capable of generating 30,000 kWh per month, emphasizing Melexis’ commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental footprint.

Strategic Location and Economic Benefits

Located in Kuching’s Sama Jaya High Tech Park, the facility enjoys proximity to X-FAB’s wafer foundry, a strategic supplier to Melexis.

This strategic positioning not only streamlines logistical operations but also enhances collaboration opportunities within the semiconductor ecosystem.

Additionally, Kuching’s vibrant multicultural environment and skilled workforce further support Melexis’ growth and operational excellence.

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Government and Industry Support

The expansion has received enthusiastic support from both the local Sarawak government and the federal Malaysian government. YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI), underscored Malaysia’s pivotal role in the global semiconductor supply chain and highlighted the economic benefits of Melexis’ investment in the region.

Future Growth and Innovation

Looking ahead, Melexis plans to expand its Research & Development initiatives in Kuching, fostering collaborations with local universities and industry partners.

With an investment of 70 million euros, Melexis aims to bolster technological innovation and drive sustainable growth in the semiconductor sector, further solidifying its leadership position in the global market.

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Conclusion

The inauguration of Melexis’ largest Wafer Testing Facility in Malaysia not only signifies a significant advancement in semiconductor technology but also reaffirms Malaysia’s status as a hub for technological innovation in the Asia-Pacific region. By prioritizing sustainability, innovation, and community engagement, Melexis is poised to shape the future of semiconductor solutions and contribute to global technological advancements.

Kumar Priyadarshi
Kumar Priyadarshi

Kumar Joined IISER Pune after qualifying IIT-JEE in 2012. In his 5th year, he travelled to Singapore for his master’s thesis which yielded a Research Paper in ACS Nano. Kumar Joined Global Foundries as a process Engineer in Singapore working at 40 nm Process node. Working as a scientist at IIT Bombay as Senior Scientist, Kumar Led the team which built India’s 1st Memory Chip with Semiconductor Lab (SCL).

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