Malaysia plans to invest US$250 million over the next decade in partnership with Arm Holdings to foster an AI and semiconductor ecosystem. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will launch this collaboration, which aims to develop local chip designers and create significant revenues within the sector, while enhancing local workforce skills.
Malaysia has announced a significant investment of US$250 million over the next ten years in partnership with Arm Holdings Plc to develop a robust ecosystem in artificial intelligence (AI) and the semiconductor industry. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is set to officially unveil this collaboration today, which aims to pave the way for Malaysia’s first domestically-designed chips and provide local companies access to Arm’s extensive intellectual property and technological expertise.
This strategic initiative seeks to establish around ten chip companies capable of generating a combined annual revenue of US$20 billion. While Malaysia has previously been an important hub for chip testing and packaging, the focus is now on enhancing its capabilities in chip design. With Arm Holdings holding approximately 6,800 patents and an extensive record of sales through its Arm-based chips, this collaboration signifies a pivotal evolution in Malaysia’s technological landscape.
Tunku Nashrul Abaidah, the Prime Minister’s senior press secretary, expressed confidence that this partnership will historically impact the global technology sector. He noted that Malaysia will be the first country in the region to host an Arm Holdings office, demonstrating the government’s commitment to building a robust technology ecosystem and establishing Malaysia as a prominent player within ASEAN.
As part of the MADANI Government initiative, implemented by various ministries, this collaboration will enable Malaysian companies to capitalize on advanced semiconductor technologies. Furthermore, it promises to enhance local workforce skills and improve the overall competitive nature of Malaysia’s technology industry. Tunku Nashrul emphasized that this strategic partnership reflects international investors’ trust in the government’s policies aimed at fostering high-value collaborations with Malaysia.
In summary, the collaboration between Malaysia and Arm Holdings represents a transformative step for the nation’s technology sector, targeting advancements in the AI and semiconductor industries. The US$250 million investment and the establishment of local chip companies underscore Malaysia’s commitment to technological innovation and economic growth. This initiative not only positions Malaysia as a leader in the ASEAN region but also signifies the global confidence in its government’s vision for a high-tech future.
Original Source: www.bernama.com
