Intel unveils new US$230mil facility in Kulim

Published: Tuesday December 15, 2009 MYT 3:51:00 PM

 

KULIM: Intel Malaysia (Intel) officially opened its Kulim Microprocessor and Chipset Operations (KMCO) facility, a US$230 million (RM805 million) investment at the Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP), here on Tuesday.

 

Its vice president (Technology and Manufacturing Group Manager and General Manager, Assembly Test and Manufacturing), Steve Megli said the facility had been in initial ramp-up operations for a year.

 

During this time, he added, it produced and shipped millions of units of the chipset supporting Intel's Nehalem 45 nanometer microarchitecture.

 

"The opening of the KMCO facility reinforces Intel's long standing commitment to make Malaysia an important technology innovation centre for the company.

 

"We are proud that Intel Malaysia's engineers have continued to raise the bar in producing state-of-the-art micro-processors and chipsets for the global market," Megli said.

 

The opening of the KMCO facility was officiated by the Minister of International Trade and Industry, Dato' Seri Mustapa Mohamed.

 

Megli said the KMCO has been earmarked as an important focus for Intel's global operations in microprocessor and chipset production, especially for next-generation 32 nanometer processors and chipsets.

 

"Production of leading-edge 32 nanometer processors at KMCO will be another milestone for Intel Malaysia. The KMCO workforce has also been transformed from a production-based workforce, to one that is increasingly knowledge-based, and thriving on innovation.

 

"Intel's strategy has always been to invest in key markets around the world, and with support from the Malaysian government, this country has become an integral part of Intel's growth," he added.

 

To date, Intel's cumulative investment in Malaysia is worth more than US$3.7 billion.

 

In conjunction with the KMCO'S opening, Intel contributed RM1.85 million to the local communities in Kulim and Penang. The funds are generated from the Intel Involved Matching Grant Program (IIMGP).

 

Under the programme, Intel employees are encourage to volunteer their time to schools and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), by working directly with them on various community-related projects.

 

In return, the Intel Foundation will match the number of hours volunteered by Intel employees with a grant.

 

Intel Malaysia managing director, Atul Bhargava said: "Intel believes in being an asset to the community where we work, live and play. It is our responsibility as corporate citizens, to continuously contribute towards nation-building.

 

"This includes promoting education in science and technology, creating a sustainable environment and advocating good business practices." - Bernama

 

For additional information on Intel, please visit www.intel.com.