KUCHING – A major tripartite agreement focusing on semiconductor advancement, digital infrastructure and green technology has been formalised in the state capital.
The landmark partnership aims to position the region at the forefront of the clean energy transition through advanced technological innovation.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Haji Abdul Rahman Zohari bin Tun Datuk Abang Haji Openg presided over the official exchange of the Memorandum of Understanding documents.
The ceremony took place on Tuesday at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Complex, marking a pivotal step in the state’s industrial strategy.
The strategic alliance brings together state-backed chip designer SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd, along with Singapore-based Photovoltaic Foundry Pte Ltd and Chinese energy giant Jiangsu Linyang Energy Co Ltd.
By combining local research capabilities with international commercial expertise, the three entities intend to accelerate the deployment of cutting-edge industrial hardware.
Central to the agreement is the commercialisation of locally engineered microchips. These specialised components are slated for integration into next-generation solar inverters, intelligent utility metering infrastructure and grid-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems.
Industry data indicates that scaling up such storage systems remains vital for stabilizing power grids that rely heavily on variable renewable sources like solar energy.
The partnership establishes a direct pipeline to translate local research and development into viable commercial applications.
By embedding homegrown integrated circuits into renewable energy hardware, the state intends to build a self-sustaining technological ecosystem, reducing long-term dependence on imported technology.
Beyond component manufacturing, the collaborative framework supports the rollout of extensive industrial and rooftop solar arrays.
This development aligns closely with the state’s ongoing Post-Covid Development Strategy, which prioritises sustainable economic growth, decarbonisation, and the expansion of regional green energy export capabilities.
A high-level delegation attended the signing event, reflecting the economic significance of the pact. Among the key figures present were State Financial Secretary and SMD Semiconductor Chairman Dato Sri Wan Lizozman bin Wan Omar, alongside Deputy Minister for Utilities Datuk Haji Ibrahim bin Baki.
Executive leadership from all participating organizations also attended, including SMD Semiconductor Chief Executive Officer Shariman Jamil, Photovoltaic Foundry representatives, and Linyang Group President Assistant April Zhang.
Senior strategists from Sarawak Energy Berhad were also present to review integration plans for the upcoming utility infrastructure.
