31/05/2026
SMD Semiconductor Engages Malaysian Students In Korea To Address Future Talent Needs
SEOUL: As Sarawak accelerates efforts to build a globally competitive semiconductor ecosystem, developing a strong pipeline of future talent has become a strategic priority amid growing global competition for skilled technology professionals and a shortage of talent across the semiconductor industry.
Recognising that talent is the foundation of any successful technology ecosystem, SMD Semiconductor organised an engagement session with Persatuan Pelajar Malaysia Korea (PPMK), bringing together Malaysian students, particularly Sarawakians studying in South Korea, one of the world's leading hubs for semiconductor innovation, advanced manufacturing, and technology development.
The engagement session was attended by Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Deputy Minister for International Trade, Industry, and Investment (MINTRED) Datuk Dr. Malcolm Mussen Lamoh, and members of the Sarawak delegation currently on a working visit to the Republic of Korea.
Also in attendance were the Ambassador of Malaysia to the Republic of Korea His Excellency Dato' Mohd Zamruni Khalid, and Chairman of OCI Holdings & OCI TerraSus Woo Hyun Lee.
In his address, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah emphasised that Sarawak’s transformation under the Post COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030 is accelerating the State’s transition to high-value industries, including semiconductor technology, the digital economy, green energy, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, and smart infrastructure.
"South Korea has become one of Sarawak's most important strategic partners in trade, investment, technology and talent development. The exposure and experience our students gain here are invaluable, and we want them to know that opportunities back home are expanding rapidly as Sarawak develops new industries and future economic sectors," he said.
"With the Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030, we are laying the foundation for a globally competitive technology ecosystem. We want to create an environment where our talent can pursue world-class careers while contributing meaningfully to Sarawak's future growth and prosperity," he added.
Meanwhile, SMD Semiconductor Chief Executive Officer Shariman Jamil said that while investments, infrastructure and technology are essential, people ultimately remain the driving force behind every successful semiconductor ecosystem.
"The semiconductor industry is built on talent. Around the world, governments and companies are competing for the same pool of highly skilled professionals. If Sarawak is serious about building a sustainable semiconductor industry, we must start investing in talent today," he said.
Shariman emphasised that opportunities within the future technology ecosystem extend beyond traditional engineering disciplines.
He added that SMD's long-term vision aligns with Sarawak's aspiration to become a creator of technology rather than merely a consumer of technologies developed elsewhere.
The engagement with PPMK reflects a shared commitment among the Sarawak Government, industry leaders and the student community to ensure that the next generation of Malaysians is equipped with the skills, exposure and opportunities needed to thrive in future industries while contributing to Sarawak's long-term competitiveness on the global stage. - UKASnews
Prepared by: Ryan Lim
