KUCHING: Sarawak aims to develop semiconductor chips capable of manipulating light while generating minimal heat as part of its push into next-generation semiconductor technology.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the chips would feature components that split light into two without producing excessive heat.
“Light has many components and can be split into two without generating heat, and God-willing, Sarawak will produce this technology.
“We have the resources needed, and the world recognises Sarawak’s capabilities. That is why many ambassadors come here, because we want to be part of the new economy,” he said in his speech at the Tanjong Lobang College (TLC) Reunion and Fundraising Dinner here on Saturday (July 11).
Abang Johari said the international recognition Sarawak has received has enabled the state to advance further into the new economy, including semiconductor chip design and manufacturing.
He added that Sarawak is also exploring the development of gallium nitride (GaN)-based semiconductor chips, which offer advantages over conventional silicon for certain applications.
“The new chip design uses gallium nitride, and it is being designed by a Sarawakian. God-willing, it will become a world-class chip produced in Sarawak,” he said.
On a related note, Abang Johari said Sarawak is also exploring the production of next-generation storage disks using glass substrates to replace conventional silicon-based substrates.
He said the new technology has the potential to become one of the key drivers of the future semiconductor and data storage industries.
Abang Johari also encouraged former TLC students to share their experiences and achievements to inspire younger generations to make full use of the educational opportunities available to them.
For the record, Western Digital (WD) is strengthening its advanced manufacturing operations in Sarawak through the development of a new glass substrate facility at the Samajaya Free Industrial Zone.
The facility will support the development of Heat-Assisted Magnetic Recording (HAMR) technology, enabling the production of next-generation data storage systems with significantly higher capacities.
The technology is expected to meet the growing demand for data storage driven by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI).
