Recently, the School of Engineering (SoE) at Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) organised an enriching industrial visit to MIMOS Berhad, Malaysia’s national applied research and development (R&D) centre. 

Led by Ir Ts Dr Reena Sri Selvarajan (Senior Lecturer, SoE at APU), the visit brought together engineering students for an immersive learning experience into semiconductor fabrication and advanced microelectronics technologies, aligning with Malaysia’s National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS), aimed at nurturing skilled talent to support the country’s growing semiconductor ecosystem. 

Activity 1: Understanding Wafer fabrication Processes

Welcomed by Ms Zalina Sayuti, representative from MIMOS Berhad, the visit commenced with a comprehensive technical briefing on wafer fabrication processes. 

Students were introduced to the fundamentals of semiconductor manufacturing, including cleanroom environments, process flows, and key fabrication equipment.

This session provided valuable insights into how raw silicon is transformed into high-performance integrated circuits (ICs) that power modern electronic devices.

Additionally, students gained a clearer understanding of the precision and complexity involved in semiconductor production. 

Activity 2: Hands-On exposure to Advanced Laboratories

Following the briefing, students were given the opportunity to explore MIMOS’ state-of-the-art laboratories.

They engaged in hands-on learning experiences within the failure analysis and test labs, where they observed advanced characterisation and diagnostic tools such as Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and electron scanning systems.

This exposure enabled students to witness the intricate processes involved in semiconductor analysis, testing, and quality assurance, further reinforcing their theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. 

Activity 3: Observing Semiconductor Devices and Testing Systems

In the final part of the visit, students were guided through a laboratory tour, where they observed various machines and semiconductor devices developed using MIMOS’ in-house technologies.

Through this session, students gained insight into how fabricated components undergo rigorous testing and validation to ensure performance, reliability, and compliance with industry standards, to which it deepened their understanding of the semiconductor lifecycle, but also reinforced the importance of quality assurance in real-world engineering applications.

Student Perspective

A student’s perspective:

1. Mohammed Sameer Gammal, Bachelor of Mechatronic Engineering with Honours: “The visit was insightful as it exposed me to semiconductor research and IC development, helping me bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, particularly in understanding IC testing and validation processes that ensure the performance and reliability of semiconductor devices, while also strengthening my ability to connect concepts from electronics and communication systems with industrial applications.”
    

Developing Industry-Relevant Engineering Skills

Dr Reena highlighted that the industrial visit provided a meaningful platform for students to connect classroom learning with practical industry exposure.

“By engaging with advanced technologies, exploring specialised facilities, and interacting with industry professionals, students gained deeper insights into semiconductor processes, quality assurance, and innovation.

“More importantly, the experience inspired students to consider career pathways in semiconductor technologies, particularly in IC design and fabrication, whilst equipping them with both strong theoretical foundations and practical competencies,” she said.