KUCHING: The upcoming launch of the Train-the-Trainer programme in semiconductor and chip design is part of Sarawak’s initiative to enhance talent development and strengthen the semiconductor industry, said Datuk Francis Harden Hollis.
The Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development said the programme, to begin on November 14, aims to bolster the local talent pool and create a robust semiconductor ecosystem in the region.
Harden called upon higher education institutions to participate in this multifaceted initiative, which holds the primary goal of nurturing local talent and addressing the evolving needs of the semiconductor industry in Sarawak.
“Sarawak’s Semiconductor Manufacturing Development (SMD) is collaborating with industry experts from Melexis NV, Belgium, and Synopsys International, who bring real-world experience and technological insights to the training programmes, ensuring the modules remain current and industry-relevant.
“These programmes, designed in collaboration with Synopsys and Melexis, will cover a wide range of topics tailored to Analog IC Design, Analog IC Layout, and IC Testing.
“Furthermore, the initiative will develop local trainers, strengthening the region’s capacity to deliver high-quality education in semiconductor-related fields,” he said.
He added that under the broader talent development program, four courses will be offered, producing 500 semiconductor professionals by the year 2030, and connecting Sarawak’s skilled institutions with global industry players.
This initiative, he said, aligns with Sarawak’s Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 (PCDS 2030), with the strategic objective of boosting GDP growth in the manufacturing sector through human capital development.
“This ambitious programme is set to position Sarawak as a top semiconductor investment destination and a global solution provider, contributing to the region’s long-term economic growth and employment opportunities.
“Semiconductors and chip design are integral parts of Sarawak’s vision to create 200,000 high-paying jobs out of a total employment of 1.5 million by 2030, as outlined in the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 blueprint,” he said.
He emphasised that the programme is exclusively accessible to Sarawakians with a basic engineering background, offering approximately 30 available slots.
The programme’s instruction will be led by two trainers from local Sarawak universities and an additional two trainers from Melexis NV.
