PENANG, 18 June 2026 - Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) through the USM Collaborative Microelectronic Design Excellence Centre (CEDEC) is recognised as an important partner in moving Malaysia’s agenda for the High-Value Semiconductor Sector.

Through CEDEC’s strength in developing Integrated Circuit (IC) Designers, the Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER) authority partners with CEDEC for developing these high-skill semiconductor talents. As of today, USM has been the only university in Malaysia to have its centre (I.e. CEDEC) appointed as Centre of Excellence (CoE) provider for NCER Technology Innovation Centre (NTIC). Also appointed as CoE provider is a USM’s pioneer Spin-off company, Visionlytics Sdn Bhd.

NTIC is targeting RM8.5 billion in new investments by 2030 to strengthen the northern region's position as a high-value semiconductor hub. Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the target would be driven by the Advanced Packaging Institute and Research Centre (APIRC), which is leading efforts to develop advanced semiconductor packaging capabilities.

As Malaysia builds on its semiconductor strengths by expanding capabilities in IC and system design, advanced packaging, automation, equipment development, R&D, prototyping and commercialisation, the APIRC's 2030 targets will generate wider spillover effects across Penang, Kedah, Perlis and Perak, including high-skilled jobs, increased R&D activity, greater technology commercialisation and stronger SME participation in global supply chains.

USM is committed to providing expertise and building talents in completing Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem. Moving together with NCER, USM expands its capabilities and further strengthens the semiconductor pipeline towards establishing a High-Value economy by 2030.

NTIC was officiated by the Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir. Representing USM was Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Industry and Community Network Division (BJIM), Professor Azlan Amran, and Director of CEDEC, Professor Asrulnizam Abd Manaf. Following the launch of NTIC, CEDEC also showcased its strength in IC design during a visit by Penang Chief Minister to NTIC.