How is Malaysian PM Strengthening Resilience in Semiconductor Sector?

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How is Malaysian PM Strengthening Resilience in Semiconductor Sector?

Synopsis

In a bold move, Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim emphasizes the importance of resilient partnerships in the semiconductor sector to combat external challenges. This strategic focus aims to enhance both local and regional capabilities, ensuring a robust future for Malaysia's semiconductor industry.

Key Takeaways

  • Collaboration with reliable partners is key.
  • Strengthening resilience against external disruptions is essential.
  • ASEAN cooperation boosts sector development.
  • Focus on creating homegrown champions.
  • Increasing training for engineers is a priority.

Kuala Lumpur, July 25 (NationPress) - Malaysia aims to collaborate with reliable partners and enhance the resilience of its semiconductor sector to protect against external disruptions and trade tensions, stated Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.

In his keynote address at the ASEAN Semiconductor Summit 2025, reported by Xinhua, he emphasized that strengthening regional cooperation through ASEAN and other frameworks will aid the sector in withstanding external shocks and promote development via research and development, and by generating demand as companies in the region elevate their skills and capabilities.

“Achieving true supply chain resilience involves removing weak links, either by effectively producing what we require or establishing dependable partnerships to access resources beyond our domestic capabilities. In these unpredictable times, diversifying our options is not merely wise; it is imperative,” he remarked.

“Our well-established semiconductor ecosystem is positioned to transition from an FDI-first strategy to nurturing local champions. This doesn’t imply shunning investors, but rather adopting a more strategic and judicious approach. We seek long-term partners who evolve with us, and we will continue to welcome allies who fortify our supply chains and share their expertise and technologies,” he added.

Anwar mentioned that Malaysia is working diligently to increase its pool of trained engineers to combat shortages and is participating in a broader ASEAN initiative—leveraging the collective strengths of the group rather than acting independently—to address common challenges more effectively.

“Malaysia must capitalize on its local strengths to fulfill a larger regional and global role. By fortifying our domestic ecosystem, we are also bolstering ASEAN's industrial capacity,” he stated.

The ASEAN Semiconductor Summit (ASEMIS) serves as a high-level assembly of government officials, policymakers, and industry leaders from the ASEAN region and global semiconductor organizations.

Point of View

It is vital to recognize Malaysia's strategic direction under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The focus on enhancing the semiconductor sector through reliable partnerships and local expertise signals a forward-thinking approach that aligns with national interests and regional cooperation.
NationPress
26/07/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Malaysia's strategy for its semiconductor sector?
Malaysia plans to strengthen its semiconductor sector by collaborating with reliable partners and enhancing resilience against external disruptions.
Who is leading the initiative for the semiconductor sector?
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is spearheading the initiative to bolster Malaysia's semiconductor resilience.
Why is regional cooperation important for Malaysia?
Regional cooperation through ASEAN is crucial for Malaysia to effectively address external shocks and enhance development.
What does true supply chain resilience entail?
True supply chain resilience involves eliminating weak links in production and securing dependable partnerships.
How is Malaysia addressing engineer shortages?
Malaysia is actively working to expand its pool of trained engineers to address shortages in the semiconductor sector.