LONDON: The Sarawak government views compound semiconductors as vital for innovation, economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.
According to the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, the investment in compound semiconductors aligns seamlessly with the long-term vision of positioning Sarawak as a premier destination for high-tech manufacturing and innovation.
"We believe that embracing compound semiconductor technologies can unlock new opportunities for growth, innovation, and competitiveness on both the regional and global stages," he said.
He said this at a Memorandum of Understanding Signing Ceremony between SMD Semiconductor and the United Kingdom (UK) based Compound Semiconductor Applications (CSA) Catapult at the House of Commons, UK Parliament, Westminster, here on Tuesday.
Sarawak SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd was represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Shariman Jamil while CSA Catapult was represented by its Chief Executive Officer, Martin McHugh.
Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari said, Sarawak initiated its foray into semiconductors during the late 1990s, primarily focusing on silicon-based wafer fabrication.
“Since then, it has not only expanded its development and production capabilities but also emerged as a significant player on the global stage in semiconductor manufacturing,” he added.
Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari explained that in recent years, the semiconductor landscape has witnessed a paradigm shift, with compound semiconductors emerging as the cornerstone of next-generation technologies.
“Unlike traditional silicon-based semiconductors, compound semiconductors offer unparalleled performance capabilities across numerous applications, ranging from telecommunications and energy systems to advanced electronics and beyond.
“Compound semiconductors offer transformative potential across industries. In 5G networks, they enable faster data transmission and greater capacity,” he said.
Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari added, Sarawak endeavours to accelerate the pace of innovation and propel the commercialisation of semiconductor solutions on a global scale.
In this regard, the homegrown SMD Semiconductor, officially known as Sarawak Microelectronics Design, was established as the state move towards its vision for the semiconductor sector.
Since its inception as a fabless semiconductor entity in 2022 and operating as a wholly owned entity of the Sarawak government, SMD Semiconductor has witnessed remarkable growth and progress, driving technological self-reliance and innovation.
The Sarawak Premier added that at its core, SMD Semiconductor is on a mission to cultivate an optimal ecosystem, strategically positioning Sarawak as a premier investment destination for the semiconductor industry and a forefront solutions provider.
Meanwhile, in welcoming the participation by UK industry players, Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari said, it signified a significant step towards fostering collaboration between the UK industry players and Sarawak in the realms of artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductor technology.
"I'm confident that this summit will yield tremendous benefits for both parties, propelling us toward a future of innovation and shared success,” he pointed out.
Also present at the ceremony were Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Sarawak State Secretary, Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki, UK Minister for Tech and the Digital Economy, Saqib Bhatti, and UK Member of Parliament, Stephen Metcalfe. -UKASnews
