SMD Semiconductor, University of Bristol, Sarawak Foundation partner to train world-class engineers

Abang Johari (centre) witnessing the exchange of MOU between SMD Semiconductor, University of Bristol, REWIRE Project and Sarawak Foundation at Satria Pertiwi Complex on Feb 4, 2026. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Feb 4: SMD Semiconductor has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Bristol and the Sarawak Foundation (Yayasan Sarawak), aiming to produce world-class engineers and researchers through a PhD programme in Compound Semiconductors at the University of Bristol.

The initiative, supported by the Sarawak Foundation, is designed to strengthen both the local and global semiconductor industry by nurturing top-tier talent.

According to Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) news, the MoU provides a long-term framework aligned with the Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030, based on the concept of “Beyond Moore’s Law” and the Post-Covid Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, ensuring the region’s semiconductor sector develops sustainably and remains globally competitive.

The signing ceremony at the Satria Pertiwi Complex today was witnessed by Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, and was signed by SMD Semiconductor CEO Shariman Jamil, University of Bristol Academic director and REWIRE Project lead Professor Martin Kuball, and Sarawak Foundation director Datu Mohamad Junaidi Mohidin.

Abang Johari highlighted that the MoU positions SMD as a key driver in the development of compound semiconductor technologies, including Gallium Nitride (GaN) and Gallium Oxide.

“SMD plays the role of industry leader, ensuring research is translated into products, technologies, and applications aligned with Sarawak’s long-term priorities,” he said.

He also emphasised local talent development as a top priority. “The University of Bristol provides world-class academic expertise and advanced research facilities, while SMD Semiconductor ensures research outcomes meet industry needs and Sarawak’s technology strategy. The Sarawak Foundation ensures our scholars return to contribute to the local semiconductor ecosystem,” he added.

Earlier, Sarawak Finance Secretary and SMD Semiconductor chairman Dato’ Sri Dr Wan Lizoizman Wan Omar noted that the semiconductor industry is a long-term sector whose success depends on a strong foundation, experience, and continuous investment in talent.

He said Sarawak has a significant opportunity to build local capacity to meet global demand for semiconductor engineers.

“The Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030 targets a contribution of approximately RM30 billion to Sarawak’s GDP, creation of 3,000 high-skilled jobs, and RM2 billion in new investments by 2030,” he explained.

Also present at the ceremony were Sarawak Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Deputy Minister of Talent Development Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, and Deputy Sarawak Secretary (Economic Planning and Development) Dato’ Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel. — DayakDaily