LONDON: The decision to establish a semiconductor lab in the United Kingdom is a strategic move aimed at positioning Sarawak as a competitive player on the global stage.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, said that research conducted in the UK will support the development of a semiconductor chip manufacturing plant (foundry) in Sarawak, in collaboration with industry partners XFAB and Melexis.
“With the introduction of keteq.GaN, the Sarawak foundry can work with XFAB to build a global semiconductor supply chain,” he was quoted in TVS report following the SMD Semiconductor and Strategic Partners Document Exchange Ceremony held at Excel London here, today (Sept 24).
According to Abang Johari, the joint initiative began after a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed last year, which led to the establishment of the SMD Semiconductor lab in Cardiff.
“As a result, Sarawak successfully developed an AI-powered semiconductor chip, which is now being further advanced with AI-GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology.
“AI-GaN represents an upgrade in both materials and technology. Gallium nitride is capable of withstanding high temperatures, making it ideal for data storage and high-power applications in the semiconductor industry. The keteq.AI-GAN technology is the result of close collaboration between SMD and its global partners,” he explained.
He added that semiconductor chips play a critical role in multiple industries, including healthcare, automotive, aerospace, and green energy devices.
Abang Johari also highlighted Sarawak’s unique position, as 70 percent of its energy is sourced from renewable hydropower, alongside ongoing development in solar and hydrogen-gas hybrid energy.
“Green chips are the future, and Sarawak is well-positioned to produce them due to our access to renewable energy. This gives our products a competitive edge while being environmentally sustainable,” he said.
To strengthen logistics support, he added that Sarawak will soon introduce Air Borneo, a new carrier that will offer both passenger and cargo services to export semiconductor products to international markets, reaching an estimated three billion consumers.
