Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasises developing local semiconductor talent to attract global investors and strengthen Malaysia’s industry ecosystem.
CYBERJAYA: Malaysia’s semiconductor industry success depends on creating a highly skilled local talent pool that meets global investor requirements, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He identified talent development as the most challenging component in building a strong and sustainable national semiconductor ecosystem.
“The most challenging part is the talent pool,” Anwar said at the Malaysia Semiconductor IC Design Park 2 launch here.
“What’s the point of having infrastructure, good policies, amenities, and incentives if all the workers come from overseas?”
He stressed that while Malaysia can utilise global resources, the nation must also develop internal strength.
Anwar emphasised that semiconductor projects require efficient implementation and rapid infrastructure development to attract quality foreign investments.
“For the benefit of investors, we can prepare adequate infrastructure and provide incentives that can make Malaysia an attractive destination for investments,” he added.
“But we also need a well-equipped, trained talent pool to protect the interests of this nation.”
Comprehensive efforts are underway involving ministry collaborations, Khazanah Nasional and industry players to train youth through upskilling programmes.
Anwar reminded the younger generation that semiconductors constantly evolve and require knowledge mastery with strong discipline.
“The future belongs to you,” he stated.
“Learn as hard as possible and master this discipline because it is changing.”
He urged universities to align academic curricula with current industry needs to produce job-ready graduates.
“Even in the university curriculum, we must have synergy between the industry and the universities,” Anwar explained.
“It is the industry that will determine and decide what type of professionals and personnel they want.”
He praised the Higher Education Ministry and UTM for establishing Malaysia’s first AI Faculty within three months instead of the usual eight.
“This shows that with clear direction and urgency, we can move fast,” Anwar noted.
Initiatives like IC Design Park 2 strengthen Malaysia’s global semiconductor position while nurturing young local talent for digital transformation.
Anwar also launched the Advanced Chip Testing Centre at the same venue.
Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari described it as Southeast Asia’s first world-class chip testing facility.
The centre serves as a key catalyst in building Malaysia’s integrated semiconductor ecosystem from design to testing.
It supports Malaysia’s transition from contract chip manufacturer to chip designer and technology owner. – Bernama
