Malaysia’s semiconductor sector is set for a boost as the Selangor government explores a collaboration with global chip design giant ARM to train students at the Advanced Semiconductor Academy of Malaysia (Asem). The initiative aims to strengthen the country’s integrated circuit (IC) design capabilities.
State executive councillor for investment, trade and mobility Ng Sze Han confirmed that discussions are underway with ARM, the Economy Ministry, and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority to incorporate the training programme into Selangor’s IC Design Park.
“There are 60 students currently undergoing upskilling courses at our IC Design Park, and we hope this collaboration with ARM will enhance their training while accelerating the growth of our semiconductor industry,” he said on the sidelines of the signing ceremony between ARM and the federal government at the Shangri-La Hotel yesterday. The event was also attended by the 60 Asem trainees, alongside Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) chief executive officer Yong Kai Ping.
Ng described the ARM-Malaysia partnership as a potential “game changer” for the country’s semiconductor sector, particularly in IC design, which is a crucial element in the global supply chain. He highlighted that Selangor is already home to several semiconductor startups at the IC Design Park, with more companies set to join the second phase of the development in Cyberjaya.
“This is an excellent platform for IC design companies to expand and thrive in this industry,” he added.
The signing ceremony, attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli, marked a significant step in Malaysia’s semiconductor ambitions. The agreement with ARM is expected to propel the industry beyond backend assembly and testing, focusing on IC design, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced semiconductor manufacturing.
Asem, formerly known as Al Nusantara, has already launched two major training programmes—the National Semiconductor Excellence Programme and the Global Semiconductor Exchange Programme—to equip university students, fresh graduates, and professionals with skills in chip design, testing, and verification.
Meanwhile, Selangor’s first IC Design Park in Puchong has secured RM2.6 billion in investment and funding, cementing its position as a key hub for semiconductor startups. Its rapid expansion has led to plans for a second phase in Cyberjaya, which is being developed in collaboration with Cyberview and is expected to launch later this year.
Selangor Journal