GEORGE TOWN: Dubbed the Silicon Valley of the East, Malaysia ranks among the top 10 global hubs for semiconductors and electronics, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister said the country's attractiveness as an investment centre had attracted many high-tech companies from around the world to set up operations here.
"Overall, Malaysia ranks as the seventh largest exporter of semiconductors in the world, with a market share of 7%.
"The country is a major player in the areas of assembly, testing and packaging, accounting for 13% of all such activities worldwide," he said when launching Semicon South-East Asia at the Setia Spice Convention Centre in Bayan Baru on Tuesday (May 23).
The three-day event, which ends on Thursday (May 25), focuses on the resilience and sustainability of the electronics supply chain as well as the adoption of smart technology and development of talent.
Ahmad Zahid said the government recognised the importance of nurturing the Malaysian electrical and electronics industry.
"Guided by this, the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry has spearheaded holistic reform of the investment agenda.
"We have set in motion...efforts to support local products in the national procurement policy and provided guidelines on sustainable development goals to help Malaysian manufacturers compete in the export market.
"We are committed to providing a conducive ecosystem for the growth of local businesses through policies and programmes... to venture into new industries and markets.
"The onus is on business owners to act fast, embrace change and seize the opportunities that abound," he said.
Ahmad Zahid was joined by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow among others in launching the event.
It will see the participation of semiconductor manufacturing companies, private and public partners, and industry stakeholders to explore new collaboration and growth opportunities.
