By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 24: Sarawak’s SMD Semiconductor and Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult of the United Kingdom has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to seal strategic international alliances for research and innovation in compound semiconductor.
Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg witnessed the MoU signing ceremony between Sarawak SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd represented by its chief executive officer (CEO) Shariman Jamil and Compound Semiconductor Applications (CSA) Catapult by its CEO Martin McHugh at the House of Commons of Westminster yesterday (April 22).
To realise Sarawak’s vision for the semiconductor sector, Abang Johari underscored the pivotal role of SMD Semiconductor, a homegrown government-linked company, led by Shariman Jamil.
He highlighted SMD Semiconductor’s mission to cultivate an optimal ecosystem, positioning Sarawak as a premier investment hub in the semiconductor industry and a leader in providing forefront solutions.
“This bold step underscores our commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements. Currently, SMD strategically engages in collaborative efforts within the UK’s compound semiconductor industry, harnessing collective expertise and resources for impactful research, development, and successful market penetration.
“I firmly believe that as SMD Semiconductor forges strategic alliances and collaborations with leading UK industry partners, it will be instrumental in driving innovations that reshape the capabilities and applications of compound semiconductors,” he said.
Operating as a wholly-owned entity of the Sarawak government, he shared that SMD Semiconductor, or Sarawak Microelectronic Design, champions technological self-reliance and innovation.
“Since its establishment as a fabless semiconductor entity in 2022, SMD Semiconductor has achieved remarkable growth and progress,” he said.
Describing the MoU as a testament to Sarawak’s commitment to international collaboration and innovation in shaping a future powered by compound semiconductors, Abang Johari urged all stakeholders, including industry leaders, researchers, investors, and policymakers, to join hands in realising this vision.
“Together, let us seize the opportunities that lie ahead, harnessing the transformative potential of compound semiconductors to shape a brighter future for us and beyond.
Accompanying the Premier were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hassan and Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.
MP of South Basildon and East Thurrock Stephen Metcalfe hosted the event, with the presence of Saqib Bhatti, Minister for Tech and Digital Economy of the United Kingdom. — DayakDaily
