BATU KAWAN, March 25 — Malaysia should position itself as an indispensable force in the semiconductor and technology sectors amid current global trade shifts, said Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong.
He said Malaysia aims to strengthen its role as a crucial “middle” player, where it still collaborates with multinationals but at the same time develops its own technology and intellectual property (IP) to serve the global markets.
Liew said the semiconductor industry in Malaysia, especially in Penang, is well connected globally but many of those connections are vertical connections.
“One of the key changes that we want to initiate is also more horizontal crossing, meaning that our semiconductor industry and all other industries powered by our semiconductor technology must be able to fortify a middle position where we are not chasing top technology but where we are strong in the middle.
“We can work with the European Union, the United States and China bloc, where we provide and create Malaysian technology.
“We are hoping this shift in the semiconductor sector can create horizontal linkages and create Malaysian technology so that we no longer just use technology but create our technology and our IP,” he said in his speech at the launch of the United Local Synergy initiative here today.
The collaboration brings together seven homegrown companies to form a strategic partnership to strengthen the local supply chain, drive innovation and elevate Malaysia’s position in the global economy.
The seven companies are Greatech Mechatronics (M) Sdn Bhd, Aurelius Technologies Bhd, Coraza Systems Sdn Bhd, Berjayapak Sdh Bhd, Swift Bridge Technologies (M) Sdn Bhd, Prodelcon Sdn Bhd, and Eng Teknologi Sdn Bhd.
Meanwhile, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow emphasised that the collaboration was a bold step towards enhancing the local supply chain, fostering industry cooperation and driving sustainable growth.
He said the initiative demonstrated a shift in Malaysia’s economic strategy, from being a participant in global supply chains to actively shaping the future of technology.
Chow noted that by fostering collaboration among enterprises, those clusters create an interconnected ecosystem that enhances capabilities, optimises operations and strengthens the supply chain.
“With global trade shifts, supply chain disruptions, and evolving industry demand, Penang must continue to adapt, innovate and build a resilient ecosystem that ensures we remain at the forefront of technological advancement and economic growth.
“The United Local Synergy initiative will be instrumental in helping local companies move up the value chain, expand global markets, and strengthen their technological capabilities, ensuring Penang remains a powerhouse of industrial excellence,” he added.
— Bernama
