KOTA SAMARAHAN: Sarawak Microelectronics Design (SMD) Semiconductor Sdn Bhd has been granted a 10-acre plot in the Samajaya Free Industrial Zone to expand its semiconductor operations.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this move is crucial to address the growing needs in high-performance semiconductor chip packaging technology.
He said this strategic step will also enable SMD Semiconductor to collaborate with private investors and partners to foster development in rapidly growing markets such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the automotive sector.
“Advanced chip packaging will also create new research and development opportunities in areas like system design, ‘chiplet’ and package design, which will generate new high-value job opportunities for the local industry.
“To achieve these goals excellently, collaborative efforts are essential to assemble a team of skilled individuals,” he said.
He said this during the launching of the SMD Chip Design Centre and SMD Academy as well as the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) exchange between SMD Semiconductor and Land and Survey Department held at Hock Seng Lee Tower here today (June 26).
Abang Johari added that at the forefront, Sarawak needs to source and develop highly skilled, innovative, and dedicated integrated circuit (IC) design engineers.
“It is important that they can contribute to our collective efforts in ensuring that the products we develop meet high standards of quality and functionality,” he said.
Regarding the establishment of the centre and academy, he mentioned that in the past year, he had inaugurated SMD’s first premises at the Tegas Digital Village, starting with a team of only three engineers.
According to him, SMD has shown remarkable achievements, growing to a team of 30 engineers today, with plans to expand the team to 50 engineers by the end of this year.
“This rapid growth is a testament to SMD’s commitment to excellence and proactive development in the semiconductor technology field.
“It not only highlights SMD’s dedication to nurturing talent and innovation but also underscores its significant role in advancing the semiconductor industry,” he explained.
Also present were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan; Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development and Chairman of SMD Datuk Seri Roland Sagah; State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki; and SMD CEO Shariman Jamil.
