Sarawak Determined To Become Technology Creators, Develop Chip & Aerospace Industries
KUCHING: Sarawak must now transition from being mere technology users to becoming technology creators in order to move beyond a low-technology based economy.
According to the Sarawak Premier, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Abdul Rahman Zohari Tun Datuk Abang Openg, stated that these efforts are currently being implemented through the development of the local semiconductor industry, including the creation of compound chips based on Gallium Nitride (GaN) powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
“Sarawak’s success thus far through the Sarawak Government-owned company, SMD Semiconductor, in creating Gallium Nitride-based compound chips powered by AI -or GaN chips - demonstrates our serious commitment to becoming chip designers rather than just chip assemblers.”
He said this in his 2026 Chinese New Year message delivered on Sunday.
However, he acknowledged that the journey towards becoming technology creators requires significant investment in Research and Development (R&D), a specialist workforce, and strategic cooperation with local and international institutions. This research has produced chips used in KETEQ AI devices to ensure more efficient electricity consumption.
Furthermore, he revealed that SMD Semiconductor, alongside Yayasan Sarawak and the University of Bristol, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in research, technological development, and human capital development.
In a related development, Sarawak also plans to possess its own satellites through the development of micro-satellites or CubeSats for weather monitoring purposes.
“This type of satellite, or CubeSats, is far cheaper to develop and place into Low Earth Orbit compared to the cost of conventional satellites. This is also a step to stimulate innovation and open opportunities for our younger generation to master aerospace technology — a field that is increasingly vital for the future economy.” - UKASnews
