KUCHING: Sarawak has advanced another step toward its global technology ambitions as SMD Semiconductor Sdn. Bhd. sealed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with South Korea’s Rebellions Inc. at the International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak (IDECS) 2025.

Witnessed by the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, the signing marked a milestone in the State’s vision to establish a Malaysia Korea technology alliance capable of challenging global players in the AI chip industry.

The Premier said the partnership reflects the spirit of Sarawak’s Integrated Silicon Longhouse, an ecosystem where government, industry, academia and global partners collaborate to drive innovation in semiconductor and artificial intelligence technologies.

“Just as the longhouse brings a community together under one roof, Sarawak’s Integrated Silicon Longhouse brings together talent, innovation and partnership to drive global impact,” he said.

He added that the collaboration not only supports Sarawak’s technology development goals but also positions the State as a leading contributor to the national semiconductor roadmap.

This partnership is in line with the Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030, Beyond Moore’s Law, which aims to transform Sarawak into Malaysia’s front runner in advanced chip design, fabrication and AI integration.

The initiative also complements the Federal Government’s RM550 million allocation under Budget 2026 to strengthen Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem, a move seen as a national commitment to develop a homegrown technology industry.

As the Premier prepares to represent Malaysia as keynote speaker at the ASEAN Conference on AI Adoption 2025, the signing reaffirms Sarawak’s growing influence in the regional high technology landscape.

Through initiatives such as this, Sarawak continues to transition from a technology adopter to a technology producer, paving the way for a future where local talent and innovation shape the region’s digital economy. -UKASnews

Reporter:  Alezxandria Kapple
Photographer: Muhammad Rais Sanusi