Premier: Sarawak to work with University of Bristol on compound semiconductor technologies

KUCHING (Feb 4): The Sarawak government, through SMD Semiconductor, will work with the University of Bristol, United Kingdom, in the design, development, and commercialisation of compound semiconductor technologies, said the Premier.

Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the collaboration will focus on gallium nitride (GaN) and gallium oxide, which are critical enablers for next-generation technologies.

“The University of Bristol brings internationally recognised academic expertise and state-of-the-art research facilities, while SMD ensures that research outcomes remain closely aligned with industry needs and Sarawak’s strategic technology priorities.

“This industry-academia partnership strengthens Sarawak’s ability to translate advanced research into real-world applications, products and long-term industrial capability,” he said in his special address at the memorandum of understanding (MoU) exchange ceremony between SMD Semiconductor, University of Bristol, and Yayasan Sarawak at the Satria Pertiwi Complex here.

Abang Johari said wholly Sarawak government-owned company SMD Semiconductor is focusing on the high-value front end of the semiconductor value chain, where intellectual property (IP) on chip design and new technology is created.

“In this role, SMD is planning to play a central part in compound semiconductor technology development, including new materials, device concepts, system-level integration, and intellectual property creation, while working closely with global manufacturing partners.

“This will position SMD as the industry anchor, translating research outcomes into product, technology and application development that are directly align with Sarawak’s long-term priorities,” he said.

He explained that this model allows Sarawak to build meaningful and scalable capability without full reliance on capital-intensive fabrication, while remaining totally connected to global semiconductor supply chains.

The Premier also highlighted talent development as a strategic priority, noting that deep expertise in compound semiconductors takes time to develop and requires sustained investment.

“Sarawak is investing in advanced postgraduate education, especially in PhD-level to build a sustainable pipeline of engineers and researchers in compound semiconductor technologies.

“Through the involvement of Yayasan Sarawak, this collaboration includes structured sponsorship for PhD programmes at the University of Bristol, ensuring that Sarawak’s talent development efforts are directly linked to world-class research and future industry needs,” he said.

Abang Johari said the initiative reflects Sarawak’s commitment to translating long-term vision into real capability through systematic execution and strategic partnerships.

“Through SMD and collaborations such as this with the University of Bristol and Yayasan Sarawak, we are strengthening talent development for our young generation and reinforcing Sarawak’s position as a partner in the global semiconductor ecosystem,” he said.

He also said the collaboration supports the implementation of Sarawak’s Semiconductor Roadmap 2030 – Beyond Moore’s Law and aligns with the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 as well as the state’s broader development blueprints.

“Our approach is clear and consistent. We are building a sustainable, innovation-led economy by investing in technology, talent, and partnerships with long-term impact,” said Abang Johari.

The MoU exchange involved SMD Semiconductor chief executive officer Shariman Jamil, University of Bristol academic director and project lead for REWIRE Prof Martin Kuball, and Yayasan Sarawak director Datu Mohamad Junaidi Mohidin.

Among those present were Deputy Education, Innovation and Talent Development Ministers Datuk Dr Annuar Rapa’ee and Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, as well as State Financial Secretary Dato Sri Dr Wan Lizozman Wan Omar.