Malaysia reaffirms global semiconductor leadership at SEMICON SEA 2025

by NURUL NAJMIN ABU BAKAR

MALAYSIA has reinforced its position as a key player in the global semiconductor industry at SEMICON South-East Asia (SEA) 2025, held from May 20 to 22 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore.

The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) introduced two key initiatives, the Supply Chain Programme and Handshake Session, to drive industry growth and strengthen global partnerships.

These sessions featured major industry players such as Micron Technology Inc, ASML Holding NV and Ferrotec (US) Corp, providing Malaysian companies with direct opportunities to enter international supply chains and focus on high-value semiconductor activities.

In 2024, Malaysia attracted RM120.5 billion in manufacturing investments, with RM55.8 billion directed to the electrical and electronics (E&E) sector, expected to create 88,000 high-skilled jobs.

MIDA CEO Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said the National Semiconductor Strategy is transforming Malaysia into a comprehensive semiconductor hub, supported by talent, infrastructure and government backing.

“The MIDA programmes are a reflection of our efforts to build a strong ecosystem where multinationals and local companies can grow together through innovation and collaboration,” he said in a statement.

SEMICON SEA president Linda Tan said SEMICON SEA highlights Malaysia’s growing role in the global semiconductor supply chain and confirmed the event will return to Kuala Lumpur in 2026.

Micron corporate VP Amarjit Sandhu said the company’s collaboration with the Malaysian government and suppliers supports innovation and long-term economic growth.

Meanwhile, Ferrotec Malaysia director Mr Soo Kim Fatt said Malaysia’s strong infrastructure, skilled workforce and supportive policies have made it a key partner in the global value chain.

ASML senior VP Eduard Stiphout said the company is working closely with suppliers and government partners to strengthen SEA’s semiconductor capabilities.

These efforts align with the National Semiconductor Strategy, which aims to push Malaysia into advanced areas of the value chain such as chip design, wafer fabrication, packaging and specialty chemicals, while positioning the country as a regional innovation hub.