KUALA LUMPUR: The Sarawak Microelectronics Design (SMD) paid a courtesy visit to the British High Commissioner to Malaysia, Ajay Sharma, to explore long-term collaborations with UK partners in the semiconductor and microelectronics sectors, in a move to accelerate Sarawak’s presence in the global semiconductor arena.
The visit, led by SMD chief executive officer Shariman Jamil, marks a strategic milestone for Sarawak as it deepens ties with the United Kingdom in advancing high-performance chip design, artificial intelligence (AI) integration, and cutting-edge semiconductor capabilities.
A key highlight of the meeting was SMD’s ongoing collaboration with the UK’s Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult (CSA Catapult).
The partnership includes initiatives such as AI chip integration, chiplet architecture, and heterogeneous integration, critical steps in developing next-generation semiconductor solutions for global markets.
“We are deeply honoured by the support extended by His Excellency Ajay Sharma.
“This visit marks an important milestone as we work towards unlocking greater opportunities with UK partners, while positioning Sarawak on the global map of advanced chip design,” said Shariman.
Shariman also briefed the High Commissioner on Sarawak’s Semiconductor Roadmap 2030 – Beyond Moore’s Law, outlining the state’s vision for innovation-led growth in the semiconductor industry.
He informed that SMD will be participating in Microelectronics UK 2025, one of Europe’s premier platforms for semiconductor and electronics innovation, taking place from Sept 24–25 at ExCeL London.
Among the key innovations to be showcased is the keteq.ai Power Converter Prototype, a revolutionary chip developed in partnership with CSA Catapult.
The prototype was first unveiled during a ceremony officiated by the Premier of Sarawak in Wales earlier this year.
Sharma expressed enthusiastic support for the increasing engagement between the United Kingdom and Sarawak.
“This mutually beneficial collaboration reflects our shared commitment to fostering innovation, enhancing trade relationships, and supporting sustainable development.
“I strongly welcome initiatives like these and look forward to developing further our dialogue and partnership in areas of mutual interest.”
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their intention to expand cooperation in areas aligned with shared priorities, particularly those that support inclusive, sustainable, and future-driven technological advancement.
