SMD Semiconductor drives Sarawak’s strategic entry into global chip industry

KUCHING (Feb 5): Sarawak is strategically positioning itself within the fast-expanding global semiconductor industry, with SMD Semiconductor playing a catalytic role in building talent, partnerships and long-term economic resilience.

SMD Semiconductor chief executive officer Shariman Jamil said governments worldwide now view the sector through the lens of economic security, technological resilience and long-term competitiveness.

“Semiconductors underpin artificial intelligence, electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, data centres, medical devices and digital public services.

“In practical terms, chips are no longer just components, but critical infrastructure,” he said in his opening remarks at the SMD Semiconductor Engagement with Higher Learning and Technical Institutions and Government Agencies, held in collaboration with the University of Bristol at SMD Academy here on Thursday.

Within Asia’s central role in global manufacturing, packaging, testing and advanced design, he described Sarawak’s entry into the industry as “structurally logical, geographically aligned, and strategically necessary”.

He said the engagement with the University of Bristol reflects the state’s intent to build trusted partnerships, resilient capabilities and future-ready talent, in line with the Post-Covid Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030).

“This session provides a structured opportunity to align curriculum development, research priorities, talent mobility and training programmes with real industry needs and international benchmarks,” he said.

Shariman reaffirmed SMD Semiconductor’s commitment to building local capability while leveraging global excellence through a collaborative and inclusive approach.

“Through SMD Semiconductor, the state government will continue to facilitate partnerships that strengthen our institutions, develop and retain talent, and position Sarawak as a credible and trusted participant in the regional and global semiconductor value chain,” he added.