LONDON: Sarawak remains steadfast in its commitment to adapt, evolve, and rise to the occasion and determined to remain competitive and relevant while creating opportunities for growth, economic security, and sustainable development in the face of global challenges, including climate change and ongoing conflicts elsewhere.
Looking ahead, Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg said he was optimistic as he had anticipated even greater prosperity and growth for Sarawak.
On sustainable energy in particular, he said his commitment to sustainable energy was unwavering, with 70 per cent of Sarawak's 5,625 megawatts (MW) power generation derived from renewable sources, predominantly hydroelectric power.
“Sarawak economic growth projections between 5 per cent and 6 per cent signal a promising trajectory, building upon the solid foundation laid in the previous year,” 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.
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 also told the audience that a notable advantage of Sarawak is the Sama Jaya High-Tech Park, a state-of-the-art industrial zone strategically situated in Kuching.
“This park serves as a testament to Sarawak's commitment to fostering technological, innovation and industrial growth.
“Looking ahead, the Sarawak government has embarked on an ambitious initiative to further elevate its technological infrastructure – the development of the Kuching High-Tech Park,” he said.
Encompassing an expansive area of 738.6 hectares within the city of Kuching, Sarawak's capital, this visionary project is slated for completion by 2030.
On SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd, he said, in a strategic move to accelerate Sarawak ambitious goals, the wholly owned entity of the Sarawak government is embarking on a significant initiative within the compound semiconductor sector in the UK.
"This bold step underscores our commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements," he said.
Currently, SMD strategically engages in collaborative efforts within the UK's compound semiconductor industry, harnessing collective expertise and resources for impactful research, development, and successful market penetration.
Datuk Patinggi Abang Zohari expressed his believe that as SMD Semiconductor forges strategic alliances and collaborations with leading UK industry partners, it will be instrumental in driving innovations that reshape the capabilities and applications of compound semiconductors.
He added that the formalisation of the Memorandum of Understanding between SMD Semiconductor and CSA Catapult was a testament of the Sarawak government 's commitment to international collaboration and innovation.
"As we embark on this journey towards a future powered by compound semiconductors, I call upon all stakeholders – industry leaders, researchers, investors, and policymakers to join hands in realising this vision.
“Together, let us seize the opportunities that lie ahead, harnessing the transformative potential of compound semiconductors to shape a brighter future for us and beyond,” he said.
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
