The design of the SMD Semiconductor chip attracted Chinese companies' interest in manufacturing electric meters

KUCHING, Oct 13: The semiconductor chip design of SMD Semiconductor is potentially being used in the manufacture of electric meters by a company from China, with cooperation negotiations between the two parties ongoing.

Sarawak's Prime Minister, His Highness Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg described the potential of the partnership as a proud achievement that proves Sarawak's innovative capabilities are beginning to be recognised globally.

"We hope SMD can reach an understanding with a company from China to use our chip design in the manufacture of electric meters.

"This is a good achievement because foreign companies are already interested in buying our chip designs", he said while addressing the 2026 Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus Awards and Awards Dinner Ceremony, here tonight.

Commenting on the development of semiconductor industry, Johari said that Sarawak is also exploring chip design now, in line with the expertise of global technology companies like Nvidia.

According to him, Sarawak has an X-FAB facility in Sama Jaya to support chip production, but still needs more engineers to strengthen capabilities in the field.

"When we talk about artificial intelligence (AI), we also talk about semiconductors and Sarawak is now exploring the field of semiconductor design as Nvidia does.

"Nvidia was involved in the design of semiconductors or chips, before they were manufactured by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) in Taiwan.

"Sarawak can also develop chip designs to be produced through X-FAB facilities in Sama Jaya", he added.

According to him, Sarawak wants to produce more innovators and creators of technologies relevant to the development of a new era, thus contributing to the needs of the world. - TVS