By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, Nov 5: Sarawak’s young talent and its ability to adapt to emerging technologies have attracted the interest of SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son, who is considering positioning a next-generation semiconductor operation in the State.
Premier Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said Son’s decision to visit Kuching despite interest from other countries was driven partly by his interest in Sarawak’s policies, particularly its free education initiative to develop skilled talent for the new economy.
“Meaning he believes in Sarawak children, the ability of Sarawak children to adopt new technology and at the same time to get ready for a new generation of semiconductor chip,” he said speaking when officiating at the Yayasan Sarawak 55th Anniversary Gala Night at a hotel here last night (Nov 4).
He noted that Son owns Arm, a major semiconductor technology company, adding that the proposed facility in Sarawak could involve the latest generation of microchips for the global market and serve as a foundation for what he described as intelligent data.
“We should be proud that he has chosen Sarawak because of the ability of our young people,” he said.
Abang Johari said the proposed investment also highlighted the importance of developing local talent to support Sarawak’s economic transformation.
He expressed appreciation to Yayasan Sarawak’s management and board for their role in establishing the foundation and strengthening the State’s human capital through education and talent development.
He said Yayasan Sarawak would maintain its core objectives while adapting to new economic realities to help Sarawak reach developed-state status comparable with advanced nations.
He added that every sector of the State’s economy would need to be strengthened with the latest talent and expertise to remain competitive in the evolving global economy. — DayakDaily
