Germany’s X-FAB Opens New Facility in Malaysia

Germany’s X-FAB, the leading analog/mixed-signal and specialty foundry, on Friday announced the opening of a new $600 million state-of-the-art manufacturing line at its Sarawak facility in Malaysia.

Malaysian Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, and the Sarawak Premier YAB Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and other dignitaries were present.

This major expansion marks a significant milestone for X-FAB Sarawak. The project added 6,000 sq. m. of cleanroom space and was completed in just two years, from ground-breaking to the first production lots.

As a result, the site’s monthly wafer start capacity has increased from 30,000 to 40,000, with a key highlight being the more than doubling of capacity for X-FAB’s highly sought-after 180nm BCD-on-SOI technology (XT018).

BCD-on-SOI technology is superior in many aspects when compared to conventional bulk BCD technologies, making it attractive to designers. Key advantages include virtual latch-up free circuits, strong EMC performance (due to complete isolation with buried oxide/DTI) and simplified handling of below ground transients.

The XT018 platform features a comprehensive portfolio of voltage options from 10 V to 375 V as well as a full range of automotive Grade-0 qualified Non-Volatile-Memory options. It is specifically designed for next generation automotive, industrial and medical applications operating in extreme temperature ranges from -40 °C to 175 °C.

X-FAB’s XT018 is ideally suited for smart motor drivers, smart LED drivers, and battery management systems, enabling high performance and compact design in demanding environments. Additionally, the company’s BCD-on-SOI solutions are a perfect fit for ultrasonic probe heads used in real-time medical imaging, where precision, reliability, and miniaturisation are critical.

Reflects Investor Confidence

Malaysia’s Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said that the expansion reflects investor confidence in Malaysia’s long-term industrial reforms and supports the country’s ambition to become a hub for advanced manufacturing.

Both the ministry and Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) are “focused on attracting quality investments that create jobs and build key tech skills for Malaysians, to further drive innovation in our industries”, he said.

MIDA Chief Executive Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim said that the investment will have spill over benefits for local communities by creating high-value jobs, nurturing skilled talent, and empowering local businesses.

Rudi De Winter, CEO of X-FAB Group, said that their 180nm BCD-on-SOI technology became a cornerstone for innovation across automotive, industrial, and medical applications, with over 100 active customers relying on it today.

This expansion is a strategic step forward – ensuring that our capacity keeps pace with growing global demand whilst positioning us to capture new opportunities, Rudi said.

He added: “I am grateful for the continued support from the Sarawak government and MIDA for enabling us to achieve this major milestone for the future success of the entire X-FAB Group.”

The new manufacturing line is now operational and will serve X-FAB’s global customer base across the automotive, industrial, and medical sectors.