German global semiconductor producerInfineon Technologies(Kulin) Sdn Bhd has announced an investment of RM8 billion to build its third wafer fabrication (fab) module that will significantly increase its power semiconductor manufacturing capacity.
The wide-bandgap technology is based on silicon carbide and gallium nitride, the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) said in a statement.Construction at Kulim, Kedah is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2024.
Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor is pleased that Infineon will continue to expand in the Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP).
"KHTP's steady growth in the number of capital-intensive high-tech manufacturing companies brings advanced technology and research and development (R&D) activities and high-tech jobs to Kedah, thereby creating a vibrant economy for the local community," he said in a statement today. said in a statement.
Dr. Rutger Wijburg, Chief Operating Officer of Infineon Technologies AG, said Malaysia is an important hub for Infineon due to the economies of scale it presents with its front-end fab manufacturing in Kulim and its back-end chip manufacturing in Malacca.
“When fully equipped, the product of the new module will generate an additional €2 billion (€1 = RM4.47) in annual revenue.
He added: "As global decarbonisation efforts gain momentum, demand for wide-bandgap power semiconductors for electric vehicles, charging and storage infrastructure, and renewable energy is growing, and we are poised to support demand."
In the same statement, Mita Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Investment Development) Lim Bee Vian said long-term industry partners have played an important role in bringing growth to the semiconductor industry in Malaysia.
"With this announcement, it will enhance Malaysia's position in the global semiconductor supply chain, strengthen our position in the global value chain and become an advanced manufacturing base in the region," she said.
Meanwhile, Infineon senior vice president and managing director Goh Kwok Chung said bringing new technology to Malaysia requires skills in managing complexity and experience in mastering the technology, and the new model will create 900 high-value jobs.
The Electrical and Electronics (E&E) industry contributes significantly to Malaysia's GDP growth, export earnings, investment and employment, and plays a vital role in the country's industrial development.
Furthermore, in the first quarter of 2022, Malaysia attracted a total of RM18.6 billion in approved investments for the electrical and electronic industry.
