USM, INFINEON AND CREST LAUNCH ACADEMY TO BOOST SEMICONDUCTOR TALENT IN MALAYSIA
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) today reinforced its strategic university–industry collaboration in advancing Malaysia’s semiconductor talent development with the launch of the Infineon WBG Technology Academy 2026, held at Auditorium Murad Mohd Noor, Sains@USM.
Jointly organised by Infineon Technologies, Collaborative Research in Engineering, Science and Technology (CREST) and USM, the programme brought together nearly 50 participants during the opening ceremony, including industry representatives, academics, researchers, and students.
Focusing on wide-bandgap (WBG) technologies such as silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN), the academy aims to nurture future talent and support Malaysia’s ambitions under the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS).
USM Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, in his welcoming remarks, highlighted the pivotal role of the semiconductor industry in shaping future technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), electric vehicles, and renewable energy.
He also emphasised the importance of collaboration among universities, industry, and government in strengthening Malaysia’s position in the semiconductor sector, in line with the NSS.
“As an APEX university, USM remains committed to advancing semiconductor research, innovation, and talent development.
“Through our strengths in engineering, materials science, microelectronics, and nanotechnology, we work closely with industry to translate knowledge into real-world solutions,” he added.
Meanwhile, CREST Chief Executive Officer, Ts. Jaffri Ibrahim, encouraged participants to make the most of the three-day programme by exploring advanced research facilities, engaging with researchers, and identifying opportunities within the semiconductor industry.
He underscored the importance of closer collaboration between universities and industry to enhance value creation and strengthen Malaysia’s global position.
Launching the programme, Infineon Vice-President, V. Lakshmanan, emphasised how collaboration with USM creates opportunities for students to broaden their knowledge and technological capabilities.
He also emphasised the importance of artificial intelligence (AI) and USM’s strategic location in Penang, in proximity to Infineon’s operations in Kulim, in fostering stronger links between academia and industry.
He expressed hope that the collaboration between Infineon, CREST, and USM would continue to grow, contributing to the development of a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the evolving needs of the semiconductor industry.
The launch of the Infineon WBG Technology Academy 2026 reflects USM’s ongoing commitment to bridging academic research with industry needs, expanding knowledge-sharing opportunities, and developing a highly skilled workforce to meet the demands of the semiconductor sector.
Also present were USM Deputy Vice-Chancellor Industry and Community Network, Professor Dato’ Dr. Azlan Amran; Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC) Penang Director, Mohamad Azrol Mohamad Dali; Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) Northern Region Head, Aziz Kevin Lee; TalentCorp Vice-President and Head of Northern Region, Nor Asmahan Othman; USM Director of Industry Network, Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Wan Maryam Wan Ahmad Kamil; alongside USM Deans, Directors, government agencies, and strategic partners.