Sarawak to send three students to pursue PhDs in semiconductors at University of Bristol

Abang Johari addressing the MoU signing ceremony between SMD Semiconductor, Sarawak Foundation and University of Bristol at Satria Pertiwi Complex on Feb 4, 2026. Photo credit: Ukas

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Feb 4: Sarawak will send three local youths to the United Kingdom to pursue Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) studies in semiconductors at the University of Bristol, marking a strategic move to strengthen the State’s expertise in the high-tech sector.

Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the deployment of this pioneering group forms part of the State government’s broader plan to cultivate skilled professionals to support Sarawak’s semiconductor industry, which is now focused on technology creation.

“The first batch comprises three individuals who will undertake PhD studies in semiconductors at Bristol. This is a pioneer group,” he told a press conference following the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between SMD Semiconductor, Sarawak Foundation, and the University of Bristol at the Satria Pertiwi Complex today.

Abang Johari explained that the students were selected for their industrial experience or master’s-level qualifications and will return to serve the Sarawak government after completing their studies.

“They will contribute back to Sarawak, as we need this expertise to drive the development of our industry,” he added.

Highlighting the importance of the initiative, Abang Johari said the rapid evolution of semiconductor technology requires ongoing research in next-generation chips, including high-value compound chips.

“The expertise developed through this partnership with the university will strengthen Sarawak’s position in the global semiconductor value chain, particularly in research and development,” he said.

He emphasised that the initiative is not a one-time effort. “Technology is changing fast. We will continue to send more students over time. Our goal is for Sarawak’s youth not just to be technology users, but to actively participate in creating and developing it,” he said.

The collaboration between SMD Semiconductor, Sarawak Foundation, and the University of Bristol will focus on talent development, semiconductor technology research, and high-performance chip expertise for sectors including energy and advanced technology.

The event was attended by Sarawak Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, Deputy Minister of Talent Development Datuk Francis Harden Hollis, Deputy Minister of Education and Innovation Datuk Dr Annuar Rapa’ee, SMD Semiconductor chairman Dato Sri DrWan Lizozman Wan Omar, Sarawak Deputy Secretary Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, Sarawak Foundation director Datu Mohamad Junaidi Mohidin, SMD Semiconductor CEO Shariman Jamil, and University of Bristol Academic director and Project REWIRE lead Professor Martin Kuball.