KUCHING: South Korea-based energy and chemical company OCI Holdings has reaffirmed its commitment to engaging local experts in managing its polysilicon manufacturing plant at Samalaju Industrial Park, Bintulu.
Chairman Lee Woo Hyun highlighted that this initiative is expected to enhance the plant’s operational efficiency, further positioning Sarawak as a vital player in the global semiconductor supply chain.
“This effort aligns with the goal of developing a highly skilled workforce and boosting the global competitiveness of the semiconductor industry.
“We will work closely with local expertise to obtain technical support and provide intensive training for workers, especially engineers and scientists.
“I want to emphasise that we need as many highly skilled and qualified talents as possible for training, as it will take time for them to adapt and reach the desired level of excellence,” he said.
He said this after paying a courtesy visit to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia today (Feb 19).
According to Lee, the visit aimed to seek policy support from the Premier, particularly in strengthening collaboration between OCI Holdings and the Sarawak government.
“This is the first time a Korean and Japanese company have joined forces to develop a polysilicon plant in Malaysia, particularly in Sarawak.
“This achievement is highly significant, and the Premier has provided unwavering support since we arrived in Sarawak eight years ago.
“He has also pledged continued support to ensure the success of this investment, which will bring significant economic benefits to Sarawak,” he added.
OCI Holdings is renowned for its expertise in polycrystalline silicon, hydrogen peroxide, and other chemicals.
Previously, OCI Holdings reaffirmed its commitment to expanding polysilicon production in Sarawak for photovoltaic applications and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tokuyama Corporation to build a semiconductor-grade polysilicon plant with an annual production capacity of 11,000 metric tons at Samalaju Industrial Park.
Also present were Sarawak Energy Berhad Group chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Sharbini Suhaili and OCI Malaysia Sdn Bhd (OCIM) CEO Datuk Dr Anas Alam Faizli.
