Wednesday, 30 July 2025

Sarawak has developed AI cutting-edge chip

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Abang Johari delivers his speech. - Photo: UKAS

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BINTULU: Sarawak’s innovation landscape is poised for a major breakthrough, with an artificial intelligence (AI) chip developed by a local Sarawakian which is expected to receive international intellectual property (IP) rights by the end of the year.

Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the cutting-edge chip known as KETEQ.AI nano chip, touted as the first of its kind in the world, was developed by SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd (SMD) chief executive officer Shariman Jamil, a Sarawakian innovator currently based in Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom.

“Shariman is working with Academy, a UK government-owned company. We’re collaborating with the British — and they are learning from us, thanks to our AI chip. So yes, Sarawakians are indeed capable,” he said.

He said this in his speech during the opening ceremony of the Tun Taib Mahmud Bridge, in Bintulu on Wednesday night (Jul 23).

Abang Johari emphasised that global confidence in Sarawak’s capabilities continues to grow, citing foreign interest and recognition.

“Japan and Korea have invested in Sarawak — and Belgium is interested too. When investors come, we must ensure the facilities are ready, including international schools.

“With proper infrastructure in place, more investors will come, offering high-paying job opportunities,” he said.

He also highlighted Sarawak’s industrial excellence has not gone unnoticed on the world stage.

He said that Sarawak, specifically Bintulu, has been recognised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) as one of only 36 transition industrial clusters globally — and the only one in Asia.

“This shows the world is watching Bintulu. Our industrial zone is a low-carbon industrial cluster, and that positions us strategically for the future,” he added.

He said although he had to decline an invitation to speak at the WEF’s Tianjin forum due to his late wife Puan Sri Datuk Amar Juma’ani Tuanku Bujang’s health, Abang Johari said he has now been invited to speak at the prestigious WEF in Davos this coming January, where he will present Sarawak’s approach to green technology.

Looking ahead, Abang Johari placed strong faith in the youth of Sarawak, especially those empowered by free tertiary education provided by the state government.

“With our young people pursuing Masters and PhDs in critical fields, I believe Sarawak will continue to thrive and lead in innovation,” he said.

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