Forget nvidia, tsmc, silicon valley, huawei or xiaomi.

[syed putra]

Sarawak to produce first homegrown chips, develop GaN-based compound semiconductors​

Abang Johari speaks at the launch of X-FAB Sarawak fabrication expansion at the Sama Jaya High Tech Park here today. – Photo by Mohd Ahmad Faisal
KUCHING (Sept 12): Sarawak is set to produce its first homegrown semiconductor chips, marking a breakthrough from wafer production to world-class chip design, said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

Speaking at the launch of X-FAB Sarawak’s RM3 billion fabrication expansion at the Sama Jaya High Tech Park here today, Abang Johari said the state will develop compound semiconductor chips based on Gallium Nitride (GaN) in collaboration with leading international partners.

“As part of its strategic initiative, the Sarawak government, through SMD Semiconductor, is working with X-FAB in Dresden, Germany, together with Cambridge Microelectronics and CSA Catapult, to develop new GaN-based chips,” he said.

GaN technology, he explained, has vast potential in next-generation applications such as power electronics, automotive systems, and renewable energy solutions.

Beyond research, the Premier said the long-term plan is to transfer this advanced technology to Sarawak, strengthening process capabilities and expanding production capacity at X-FAB Kuching.

Since its inception, SMD has also prioritised talent development in partnership with Melexis and X-FAB

“Through this initiative, we have successfully trained and nurtured 50 highly skilled engineers and designers specialising in semiconductor technologies.

“These talents have been strategically deployed across Sarawak’s semiconductor ecosystem, primarily contributing to SMD, Melexis, and X-FAB,” Abang Johari said.

The GaN initiative forms a key component of the Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030, which targets RM2 billion in investments, 3,000 high-skilled jobs, and the creation of new intellectual properties (IPs).

Abang Johari said building local capabilities in chip design is critical for Sarawak to move up the value chain and strengthen its role in the national semiconductor industry.

“The Sama Jaya facility will accelerate our local capabilities in advanced semiconductor design, integration, and innovation, ensuring that Sarawak is not only a participant but a competitive leader in the national semiconductor industry,” he said.

The Premier added that these efforts reflect the state’s long-term vision of positioning itself as a hub for advanced technology, backed by international collaboration and a growing pool of local talent.