KLA Corporation, a global leader in advanced electronics equipment, has completed the first phase of its newest manufacturing facility in Singapore. The new building, part of a US$200 million investment, spans 200,000 square feet and is designed to meet the growing demand for cutting-edge process control solutions in the semiconductor industry.
The completion of Phase 1 marks a significant milestone for KLA’s operations in Singapore, a critical hub for the company’s manufacturing and engineering efforts. The new facility includes a 46,000-square-foot Class 100 cleanroom and a 12,000-square-foot Class 10K cleanroom—both essential for meeting stringent vibration control and cleanroom protocol requirements.
Work will soon begin on Phase 2, which will expand the facility’s capacity to 420,000 square feet by 2026, adding more cleanroom space and research and development capabilities. This second phase is also expected to boost KLA’s local workforce by 400 employees, further solidifying the company’s commitment to the region.
From left to right: Mr. Greg Grant, KLA Vice President of Singapore Operations, Mr. Theo Kneepkens, KLA Senior Vice President of Global Operations and Country President of KLA Singapore, Mr. Bren Higgins, KLA Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Gan Kim Yong, Deputy Prime Minister & Minister for Trade and Industry, Mr. Pee Beng Kong, Executive Vice President of Economic Development Board (EDB), Ms. Yvonne Lim, Group Director of JTC Corporation
“From KLA’s first foray in Singapore close to 30 years ago, we have grown in step with the maturing of Singapore’s semiconductor manufacturing industry and talent base,” said Theo Kneepkens, KLA Singapore country president and senior vice president of Global Operations. “This new facility is a testament to the strategic importance of Singapore and the remarkable growth of our business in the region, further strengthening our manufacturing and innovation capabilities.”
Strengthening Singapore’s Role as a Semiconductor Hub
KLA’s investment comes at a time when Singapore is working to position itself as a global leader in manufacturing, particularly in the semiconductor sector. The country has set ambitious targets to expand the value-add of its manufacturing sector by 50 percent by 2030. With rising global demand for semiconductors, KLA’s expansion aligns with Singapore’s focus on building a robust semiconductor ecosystem and supply chain.
“KLA’s latest manufacturing facility will contribute to the development of new semiconductor capabilities in Singapore, and offer exciting roles and career pathways to Singaporeans,” said Mr. Chang Chin Nam, senior vice president of the Economic Development Board (EDB). “KLA’s expansion here is testament to the competitiveness of Singapore’s semiconductor ecosystem and will strengthen our position as a critical global node for semiconductor equipment.”
Developing Local Talent for a High-Tech Future
Beyond expanding its manufacturing capabilities, KLA is investing in Singapore’s talent pipeline. By 2023, the company has conducted 15,000 training sessions to develop the niche skills required in the semiconductor industry. This focus on training aligns with Singapore’s broader plans to establish itself as a global innovation and manufacturing hub.
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