BRISTOL: Sarawak is strengthening its push towards becoming a high-value technology and innovation hub through strategic international collaborations aimed at accelerating the development of its semiconductor ecosystem.
SMD Semiconductor chairman Datuk Sri Wan Lizozman Wan Omar said the company plays an important role in translating Sarawak’s long-term economic strategies into implementation, particularly in building the infrastructure, expertise and capabilities required to support advanced industries.
He said developing high-value industries such as semiconductors cannot be achieved in isolation, stressing that international cooperation remains essential in helping Sarawak move up the global technology value chain.
“Partnerships with institutions such as University of Bristol enable Sarawak to accelerate capability development, enhance technical expertise, and move more effectively into high-value segments of the global technology ecosystems,” he said in a statement following the Sarawak Semiconductor Engagement Session co-hosted by SMD Semiconductor and the University of Bristol at the NCC, Bristol and Bath Science Park.
Wan Lizozman said SMD Semiconductor has over the years established engagements with several key United Kingdom government agencies and industry partners, including the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), Department for Business and Trade (DBT), United Kingdom Research and Innovation (UKRI), CSA Catapult and Silicon Catalyst.
Meanwhile, University of Bristol Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Evelyn Welch described the growing partnership with Sarawak as an example of how international collaboration can turn cutting-edge research into practical and long-term impact.
“This engagement marks a significant step forward in our partnership with Sarawak. Building on our Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SMD Semiconductor signed last February at the Premier’s Office in Kuching, we are strengthening collaboration in power electronics and compound semiconductor technologies to support clean energy, electrification and advanced manufacturing,” she said.
Welch said the university, through its REWIRE Innovation and Knowledge Centre, is currently developing technologies aimed at supporting the global net-zero transition while strengthening supply chains and nurturing future talent.
She also said the university’s expertise in areas such as space technologies and artificial intelligence, supported by capabilities including Isambard-AI, would help bridge research and industrial applications.
“The launch of NCC’s Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus would also create further opportunities for collaboration while paving the way for stronger long-term partnerships between Sarawak and the United Kingdom,” she said.
Also speaking at the event was John Edwards, who said collaborations such as the one involving Sarawak demonstrate how international partnerships can create opportunities for innovation, investment and sustainable economic growth.
“This collaboration demonstrates how international partnerships can translate into tangible opportunities for innovation, investment and sustained growth. By working with forward-looking partners such as Sarawak, Malaysia, the UK is well-positioned to extend its global leadership in high-value sectors,” he said.
Meanwhile, West of England Mayor Helen Godwin said the region continues to attract strong international interest, including from Sarawak’s delegation of senior government officials and business leaders.
“Sarawak’s new agreement with the University of Bristol is an important milestone in the already strong relationship between Malaysia and the West Country,” she said.
