Malaysia to strengthen semiconductor ecosystem at SEMICON SEA 2026

Malaysia aims to boost its semiconductor sector through supply chain integration and high-value partnerships at the upcoming SEMICON SEA 2026 event in Kuala Lumpur

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is intensifying efforts to fortify its semiconductor ecosystem this year, focusing on supply chain integration and local capability development.

The upcoming SEMICON Southeast Asia 2026 event is poised to act as a key catalyst for this strategic push. The event is scheduled for May 5 to 7 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre.

It is held in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority. MIDA chief executive officer Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid pointed to the RM28.5 billion secured by the electrical and electronics sector in 2025 as evidence of sustained global confidence.

He stated that under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, Malaysia is deliberately reshaping its role in the global semiconductor supply chain. “We continue to build a robust ecosystem to match that confidence, through supply chain integration, local capability development, and the kind of high-value partnerships that platforms like SEMICON Southeast Asia are uniquely placed to catalyse,” he said.

MIDA positions itself as an active builder in this industry transformation, not a bystander. The event coincides with Malaysia’s strategic shift beyond assembly and test into higher-value activities like design and advanced packaging.

SEMI president and chief executive officer Ajit Manocha highlighted the global industry’s trajectory toward US$1 trillion in annual sales by 2026. He noted Southeast Asia has emerged as a significant growth driver, outperforming the broader industry in recent years.

Themed ‘Transform Tomorrow’, SEMICON SEA 2026 will focus on accelerating next-generation technologies while tackling structural challenges. It is expected to draw over 20,000 innovators, policymakers and technology experts.

Discussions will centre on artificial intelligence, smart manufacturing, sustainability and advanced packaging. The event is supported by major industry partners including GlobalFoundries, Lam Research, Micron and Applied Materials.

Registration for the premier regional semiconductor platform is now open online.