OMRON Malaysia: Pioneering Innovation and Sustainability in Southeast Asia

Established in 1933, OMRON Corporation has become a global leader in automation, leveraging its core competencies in Sensing & Control + Think technology. With a mission to enhance lives and contribute to a better society, OMRON’s expansive portfolio spans industrial automation, healthcare, social systems, device and module solutions and data solutions. The company provides products and services in over 130 countries worldwide.

OMRON’s Device and Module Solutions (DMS) business, guided by the vision, “With Our Connecting and Switching Technologies, Resolve Social Issues with Customers”, develops solutions to address societal challenges. Offering a diverse range of relays, switches, sensors, connectors and modules, DMS serves industries such as DC Drive devices, DC Infrastructure devices, High-Frequency Devices and Remote/VR Devices. This business operates a global production system with six facilities in Japan and five outside, including one in Malaysia.

OMRON Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., established in 1973 and located in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, is a cornerstone of OMRON’s manufacturing operations in Southeast Asia. This 50-year-old facility specialises in producing a wide range of relays, relay parts, dies and sockets, serving industries such as home appliances, industrial applications and building automation. Its full manufacturing capabilities and strategic location make it a vital supplier in the electronic components and automation sectors.

Aligned with OMRON’s long-term vision “Shaping the Future 2030”, the company is dedicated to solving social issues through business and achieving decarbonisation and environmental sustainability. OMRON Malaysia actively contributes to these goals by collaborating with customers to deliver innovative device and module solutions while minimising the environmental impact of its operations.

Recognising the urgency of global environmental issues, the factory has implemented advanced production technologies to reduce CO2 emissions and improve energy efficiency. Innovations such as improved hot runners, automatic recycling systems and reduced Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in the parts cleaning process have resulted in a significant reduction of 515 tonnes of CO2 emissions. This achievement was honoured with the Malaysia Management Excellence Award in 2023.

Employing around 1,000 people, OMRON Malaysia is committed to generating social value through various community initiatives. These include employing physically disabled individuals, organising blood donations, participating in beach cleaning activities and supporting the underprivileged.

OMRON established its Malaysian manufacturing base to strengthen its supply chain in Southeast Asia, catering to the growing demand for its products in the Asia-Pacific region. Malaysia’s skilled workforce, favourable business environment and proximity to key markets make it an ideal location. This move aligns with OMRON’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, fostering a carbon-neutral and digitalised society.

OMRON recognises climate change and economic disparities as critical social issues. The Malaysian facility contributes to these areas by advancing battery technologies for new energy utilisation (such as EV mobility and solar power) and empowering the semiconductor industry with high-quality inspection solutions. These efforts aim to reduce CO2 emissions, enhance safety and comfort, and mitigate economic disparities.

To address social issues more effectively and drive business growth, OMRON is focusing on four key domains – namely devices for DC drive; DC infrastructure; high-frequency devices and remote/VR devices. These domains leverage OMRON’s strengths and capitalise on societal changes and opportunities.

Emphasising three key attributes – i.e. Green, Digital and Speed – OMRON aims to reduce CO2 emissions, convert design and production data into value and enhance speed for improving supply chain management ensuring timely delivery and reduced development lead time. The company aims to transition from a customer-oriented to a social-oriented approach, proposing products that address and resolve social issues.

Malaysia’s robust electronics industry and favourable investment climate make it a strategic location for manufacturers. Companies looking to invest in electronic components manufacturing can benefit from Malaysia’s mature industry background, comprehensive Government support, commitment to innovation and sustainability and initiatives to cultivate local talent.

OMRON Malaysia is a testament to the potential for success and growth in Malaysia’s business landscape. With its focus on innovation, sustainability and social responsibility, OMRON continues to enhance its contributions to society and the environment, positioning itself as a leader in the electronic components and automation industry.