CARDIFF: Sarawak is strengthening its position and strategic cooperation in innovation and semiconductor technology following Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s official working visit to the United Kingdom starting Monday (Apr 28).
According to a report by TVS, he arrived Cardiff, Wales at 7 pm local time and was welcomed by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, State Secretary Datuk Amar Abu Bakar Marzuki and senior state government leaders.
During this visit, the Premier is scheduled to visit the CSA Catapult Innovation Centre in Newport.
Following that, he will witness the signing of a cooperation agreement between local company SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd and three major industry players in the UK — CSA Catapult, Silicon Catalyst, and 5G3i Ltd, an important step in strengthening Sarawak’s position in the global semiconductor industry.
The agreement is also in line with the launch of the Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030, which will be introduced during a briefing session by SMD Semiconductor Chairman, Datuk Seri Wan Lizozman Wan Omar.
One of the main highlights of the visit is the demonstration of a prototype smart converter system powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) by SMD Semiconductor, which holds significant potential in sectors such as energy, transportation, heavy industry, and critical missions including aerospace, healthcare, and defense.
Apart from the visit to CSA Catapult, Abang Johari is also scheduled to hold networking sessions with representatives from the governments of England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland to further strengthen strategic UK–Sarawak relations in high-tech industry development.
This visit also builds on the momentum of strategic cooperation following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between SMD Semiconductor and CSA Catapult in April 2024, thus opening wider opportunities for joint technology development and investment.
On May 1, he will visit Cambridge University Press and Assessment to explore collaborations in educational assessment and research.
The delegation will also meet with the International Hydropower Association and Global Renewable Alliances to strengthen cooperation in green energy.
The UK visit will end on May 3 with the Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak (LBAS) programme with Sarawakian students in the UK and Ireland.
The delegation will then proceed to Toulouse, France for a visit to the headquarters of Europe’s largest aircraft manufacturer, Airbus, before continuing to Abu Dhabi for visits related to ports and Zayed International Airport.
