Melandri joined Honda Gresini after two disastrous seasons at Yamaha, where he finished just 15th and 12th in the
MotoGP World Championship, and was instantly transformed.
The Italian finished his first season on a satellite-spec RCV second in the 2005 world championship, behind only
Valentino Rossi, having taken his first two MotoGP race wins in the process.
Injuries during 2006 left Marco fourth in the final title chase, although his three wins were more than any other Honda rider and it was rumoured he had secured extra HRC support for 2007.
With Honda's new 800cc machine underperforming, such support was needed more than ever, but remained focussed around the factory Repsol team and a disillusioned Melandri was confirmed as a 2008 factory Ducati rider by July's US GP.
Melandri thus heads for the final grand prix of a winless 2007 season looking to thank the Gresini team with a third podium finish as he also seeks to secure fourth in the final championship standings.
"I'd like to finish off the season with another good result. I've got some great memories of this circuit, especially my victory in 2005," said Melandri.
"Second place in Malaysia at a circuit where I've never scored good results in the past and where it looked as though the characteristics of the track would not suit my bike or riding style have given me an extra boost. The package of bike and tyres worked perfectly there and I'm confident.
"My aim is to confirm fourth place in the championship and give Fausto and the team one last reason to celebrate after three great years together," he added.
