Accra:The country is fast-tracking its semiconductor design processes by leveraging the intellectual property of Arm Ltd. This initiative builds on Malaysia's 50-year history in manufacturing, aiming to shorten development timelines and enhance domestic IP capabilities.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir emphasized Malaysia's existing strengths in backend manufacturing and its partnerships with global architecture leaders. He highlighted the nation's expertise in testing, equipment, and packaging, which has been established over decades.

Akmal noted that through collaboration with Arm, Malaysia has gained access to IP design, facilitating rapid development within local design parks. This effort has led to the production of six market-ready chip innovations in just two years.

During the Selangor AI and Semiconductor Summit (AiSEM) 2026, Akmal launched these six homegrown chips, which are projected to have a combined sales potential of RM300 million. This achievement marks a shift from 'Made in Malaysia' to 'Made by Malaysia,' signifying a new era in the nation's semiconductor industry.

Akmal also stressed the importance of a unified national ecosystem, where federal and state semiconductor hubs complement each other rather than overlap. He addressed concerns about potential investment overlaps, noting that states like Sarawak and Selangor offer unique value chain advantages.

He further mentioned Malaysia's goal to increase the proportion of skilled workers to 35% under the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (13MP) by focusing on high-growth, high-value sectors. The current skilled workforce stands at about 31%, and upgrading workforce capabilities remains central to the government's economic strategy.