LONDON: SMD Semiconductor marked a historic milestone in the semiconductor industry through strategic partnership with Microelectronics UK.
According to a TVS news report, SMD Semiconductor held a document exchange ceremony with its UK partner at Excel London on Wednesday. The historic event was witnessed by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Chairman of SMD Semiconductor, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Lizozman Wan Omar, said the collaboration proves that Sarawak is advancing in realising its vision as a regional semiconductor technology hub.
“Today is not just a document exchange, but an exchange of commitment, trust and long-term vision. It is a story of determination, cross-border collaboration, and shared confidence that Sarawak can stand tall in the global semiconductor industry,” he said.
He said among the key projects signed were the development of the Gallium Nitride High Electron Mobility Transistor (GaN HEMT) with Cambridge Microelectronics, XFAB Dresden Foundry, and CSA Catapult, as well as the development of the keteq.ai Power Converter with Sarawak Energy Berhad, 5G3i, and CSA Catapult.
He added that SMD Semiconductor is also in early discussions to establish an Advanced AI Chip Integration Centre in collaboration with CSA Catapult and the Government of Wales.
He said Sarawak’s transformation from a resource-based economy to a knowledge-based economy is becoming increasingly evident.
“When our Premier refers to Sarawak as the ‘Silicon Nerve of Asia’, it is a bold vision. But every transformation begins with a vision. Semiconductors are the lifeblood of global progress — from energy, transportation, health, and communications to artificial intelligence. Sarawak must be part of this current of change,” he said.
He said the UK-Sarawak collaboration will directly benefit rural communities, particularly through access to more sustainable and affordable technology.
