SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd and Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to further semiconductor-related research and development human capacity enhancement.
The pact was signed formally at SRDC 2nd Symposium 2024 titled: Research That Matters 2.0 hosted by Sarawak. Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian marked the day by witnessing that event.
“This strategic MoU underscores SMD’s steadfast commitment to fostering industry-academic partnerships, aimed at advancing Sarawak’s semiconductor sector”, reports said.
SMD Semiconductor was represented by its chief executive officer Shariman Jamil and vice-president (Technology Development) Chia Chieu Yin, while Curtin Malaysia was represented by its acting pro vice-chancellor and chief executive Professor Vincent Lee Chieng Chen, and Faculty of Engineering and Science dean Professor Tuong-Thuy Vu.
In highlighting the importance of the partnership, Shariman stated key initiatives including establishing an IC Research and Innovation Lab, co-developing a postgraduate research programme, and fostering knowledge exchange.
“The agreement also promotes talent growth through an exchange programme, consultancy services, and graduate career opportunities within SMD Semiconductor".
“This strategic alliance aims to strengthen industry-academia synergy, support workforce readiness, and drive innovation, while setting a new benchmark for Malaysia’s semiconductor sector”, he said.
SMD Semiconductor is a wholly-owned entity of the Sarawak government incorporated through SRDC and under the purview of the Ministry of Education, Innovation and Talent Development.
It is Sarawak’s boutique fabless chip design house that specialises in designing analogue and mixed signal integrated circuits or chips, and aspires to establish the market presence of Sarawak in the global semiconductor industry.
