04-08-2025
S'wak keen on long-term collab in chips and microelectronics with British partners
SMD Semiconductor chief executive Shariman Jamil (third right) leading the courtesy visit to British High Commissioner to Malaysia Ajay Sharma (centre).
KUCHING: Sarawak is exploring long-term collaboration with British partners in the semiconductor and microelectronics sectors.
This was highlighted in a courtesy visit by state-owned SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd to Britain's High Commissioner to Malaysia, Ajay Sharma, in Kuala Lumpur on Monday (Aug 4).
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SMD chief executive Shariman Jamil, who led the visit, said the company was committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in innovation, technology exchange and the development of advanced semiconductor capabilities.
A key topic of discussion was SMD's collaboration with Britain's CSA Catapult, along with the development of new AI chip integration, chiplets and heterogeneous integration.
"The engagement reflects the deepening ties between Sarawak and Britain, united by a shared ambition to lead in semiconductor innovation.
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"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," he said in a statement.
He also briefed Sharma on Sarawak's Semiconductor Roadmap 2030 as well as SMD's participation in the upcoming Microelectronics UK 2025 in London on Sept 24 and 25.
He said SMD would showcase several key innovations, including the power converter prototype developed in collaboration with CSA Catapult.
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Sharma expressed strong support for the growing engagement between Sarawak and Britain in semiconductors and advanced technologies.
"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," he said.
