COHU-owned LTX Credence Sdn Bhd, a global leader in semiconductor test solutions, announced the opening of its new semiconductor test design centre in Bayan Lepas in June 21.
The newly set-up design centre spans 20,000 sq ft and focuses on developing the next generation of high-speed digital and analogue instrumentation to test the semiconductors of tomorrow.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, present at the inauguration, said this new development marks a significant step forward for Malaysia’s tech ecosystem.
“This centre is dedicated to developing the next generation of precision digital instruments, leveraging custom Integrated Circuit (IC) design.
“It will enable customers to deliver high-performance and high-quality semiconductors, propelling our technological capabilities to new heights.
“The investment of over RM71 million in this venture is a testament to LTX Credence’s commitment to Malaysia’s growth and it is projected to generate an impressive RM1.6 billion in indirect economic value over the next five years, significantly boosting the local economy.
“The centre’s recruitment drive will attract up to 60 highly skilled research engineers, boosting our nation’s intellectual capital and fostering a vibrant knowledge-based economy.
“This ripple effect will extend beyond the semiconductor industry, positively affecting various sectors and industries,” Gobind said in his speech.
In a related development, he mentioned that this centre aligns seamlessly with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s vision to upscale the semiconductor industry in Malaysia.
He referred specifically to the recent approval of Malaysia Digital (MD) status for LTX Credence Sdn Bhd in May this year, a milestone that underscores the government’s support and commitment to this critical sector.
Meanwhile, state Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari, during his speech, lauded Cohu’s technology and said it was critical for the development of higher-value semiconductors, particularly those used in automotive and advanced displays.
“This makes their new design centre even more significant for Penang, as it positions us at the forefront of cutting-edge semiconductor technology.
“I am optimistic that this new design centre will be able to ignite new and exciting opportunities for advancing innovations in the semiconductor industry in Penang.
“The technological transfer from Cohu into Penang will be beneficial to develop and train local talent in the industry, generating momentum for the state and nation to move upwards in the global semiconductor chain,” Zairil said.
Cohu Inc., headquartered in the United States of America, is a global supplier of equipment and services optimising semiconductor manufacturing yield and productivity.
Also present at the event were InvestPenang chief executive officer Datuk Loo Lee Lian, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) chief executive officer Mahadhir Aziz, Cohu chief executive officer Luis A. Muller and its Asia Design Centre head Wai-Kong Chen.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En