New national initiatives and startup incubation programme aim to strengthen high-value chip design and innovation capabilities
Malaysia is intensifying efforts to strengthen its semiconductor ecosystem, reports BERNAMA, a partner of TV BRICS. The move reflects a broader national push to secure long-term competitiveness and resilience in one of the world’s most critical industries.
Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Mohammad Yusof Apdal highlighted the need for the country to move beyond traditional back-end activities and expand into higher-value segments of the semiconductor supply chain.
He noted that global industry dynamics are increasingly concentrating value in upstream areas such as chip design and advanced engineering. In this context, strengthening capabilities in these segments is becoming essential for countries seeking to shape the future of industrial development.
Malaysia’s National Semiconductor Strategy sets out a roadmap to enhance the country’s position in areas including integrated circuit (IC) design, advanced packaging, and other high-value activities. The strategy signals a shift from participation to leadership in selected segments of the global semiconductor ecosystem.
A central pillar of this effort is the launch of a new structured initiative designed to build a pipeline of high-potential semiconductor ventures. The programme focuses on nurturing companies capable of developing proprietary technologies, generating intellectual property, and contributing to the country’s industrial base.
Key focus areas include sensor technologies, photonics, micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS), quantum technologies, and advanced semiconductor materials – all identified as strategic growth sectors under the national plan.
Malaysia already holds a strong position in the global semiconductor industry, accounting for approximately 13 per cent of the worldwide testing and packaging market and ranking among the leading exporters of semiconductor products.
African Times published this article in partnership with International Media Network TV BRICS
