BATU KAWAN, October 14 – Micron Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: MU), a global leader in semiconductor technology, celebrated a significant milestone with the grand opening of its advanced assembly and test facility in Batu Kawan, Penang. The inauguration coincided with the commemoration of Micron’s 45th anniversary and was graced by esteemed guests, including the Chief Minister of Penang, Chow Kon Yeow, highlighting the regional significance of Micron’s expansion.
Micron’s substantial investment in this facility, initially totaling $1 billion and with a projected additional billion for construction and equipment expenses over the next few years, expands the factory space in Penang to an impressive 1.5 million square feet. This expansion not only strengthens Micron Malaysia’s production capacity but also enhances its assembly and test capabilities, positioning it to meet the growing demand for vital technologies such as NAND, PCDRAM, and SSD modules, which are indispensable for artificial intelligence and the development of autonomous and electric vehicles.
Amarjit Sandhu, corporate vice president of Assembly and Test NAND Operations for Micron Technology, emphasized the importance of this expansion, stating, “The official opening of our new manufacturing facility in Batu Kawan strengthens Micron’s global manufacturing presence, allowing us to deliver high-quality products to our customers efficiently and at scale. This expansion underscores our unwavering commitment to advancing semiconductor development and manufacturing excellence.”
The Batu Kawan facility distinguishes itself by incorporating smart manufacturing applications that optimize efficiency, yield, and production quality, ensuring Micron can continue delivering world-class products efficiently and reliably. Micron also upholds a strong commitment to sustainability. The facility’s design adheres to the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system, with a focus on reducing energy consumption by over 25% compared to the American Society of Heating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHAE) standard.
This aligns with Micron’s goals of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and eliminating hazardous waste to landfills by 2030. In 2022, Micron announced that its Malaysian facilities were powered by 100% renewable electricity, setting an example within Micron’s global network. The new Batu Kawan facility will further support Micron’s sustainability goals and environmental initiatives. Micron’s investment in Penang aligns with Malaysia’s goals outlined in the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) and strengthens Penang’s reputation as a hub for cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing.
The opening ceremony brought together local dignitaries, industry partners, and Micron team members, underscoring the company’s commitment to sustainability, partnership, and progress for both Micron and the Penang region. The distinguished attendees included Ms. Lim Bee Vian, Deputy CEO (Investment Development) of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority, Mr. Thomas Mathew, CEO of TalentCorp, Dato’ Loo Lee Lian, CEO of InvestPenang, Dato’ Seri Wong Siew Hai, President of the Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association, Ms. Siobhan Das, AmCham CEO, and Gursharan Singh, senior vice president of Global Assembly and Test at Micron.
Chief Minister Tuan Chow Kon Yeow expressed his appreciation for Micron’s confidence in Penang’s ecosystem and its contributions to the state’s semiconductor leadership. This expansion will further solidify Penang’s position as a hub for advanced manufacturing. The Chief Minister also stressed the importance of balancing infrastructure development and social development for sustainable growth, highlighting Micron Foundation’s contribution to the Resilient Cities Network (R-Cities) as a step toward building resilience in the state.
Micron’s active involvement in supporting the state’s talent agenda, especially in STEM fields, demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in advancing communities and the nation. In conclusion, the opening of Micron’s advanced assembly and test facility in Penang signifies the company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the growth of Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem. The collaboration between Micron and Penang promises a bright future for technology and economic development in the region.
