By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Sept 12: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today lauded Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s visionary leadership, saying it has made his task much easier when working with a progressive State government that drives efficiency, streamlines approvals, and attracts global investors.
Speaking at the launch of X-FAB Sarawak’s RM3 billion 40K Expansion at Sama Jaya Free Industrial Zone, Anwar described the milestone as proof of Sarawak’s emergence as a global player in the semiconductor industry, backed by strong State leadership and a conducive ecosystem for investment.
“Because some states we will have to really push the agenda, get the vision right and get it to be more efficient. The leadership here gets the vision right, streamlines approvals, and provides attractive incentives for investors,” he said.
He stressed that the expansion was not merely about capacity growth but about embedding automation, artificial intelligence, precision, and innovation at every level.
“What we call manufacturing or back-end, and what we call front-end in technology, are no longer abstract terms in Sarawak. We see their success embodied in X-FAB Sarawak, with its impressive 40K expansion that raises our position in high-tech fields. This achievement is a source of immense pride, and I salute and applaud everyone involved,” he added.
Tracing Sarawak’s progress from early silicon ventures to the establishment of CMOS in the early 2000s and the landmark X-FAB partnership in 2006, Anwar said Sarawak has now positioned itself as home to an internationally recognised semiconductor centre.
“This is the fruit of hard work, vision, and getting the foundations right,” he said.
The Prime Minister also emphasised that the federal government’s National Semiconductor Strategy was designed with Sarawak’s potential in mind, noting that the State’s investments in R&D, infrastructure, and supply chains are already paying off.
“This single expansion alone, worth RM3 billion, is a testament to your confidence in Sarawak and in the performance of the state government under Premier Abang Johari,” he said.
He further praised Sarawak’s stable governance, efficient implementation, and transparent approval processes, describing them as qualities that set the state apart as a model for emerging economies.
“Sarawak today is not just about timber or energy; it is about high-tech industries, medical excellence, and world-class innovation. What once seemed impossible is now reality, achieved through sheer determination, focus, and ambition,” he said.
Anwar also reaffirmed Putrajaya’s support for Sarawak in expanding its role not only in semiconductors but also in renewable energy, including green hydrogen, making the state a central pillar in Malaysia’s growth strategy.
“Stability, peace, and clear policies matter. They allow the vision of our forefathers and foremothers to be realised by this generation. With discipline, hard work, and humility, Malaysia and Sarawak can emerge as a great nation with good governance, strong economic foundations, and global recognition,” he said. — DayakDaily
