BRISTOL, (United Kingdom), May 6 2026: Sarawak, through the state-owned SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd, will embark on an exploration of a partnership with United Kingdom partners to design satellite-grade semiconductor chips and systems.
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Premier Abang Johari Openg said the collaboration will enable Sarawak to launch its own first satellite, marking a major step forward in its ambition to become a high-value player in the global semiconductor, aerospace, and space technology sectors.
“The initiative will support Sarawak’s focus on satellite utilisation, data analytics, and downstream applications with real-world impact, particularly in climate-related areas such as forestry, earth observation, disaster management, carbon tracking, and maritime monitoring,” he said yesterday.
He added it will also strengthen critical data capabilities and enhance telecommunications infrastructure, including extending high-speed, low-latency connectivity to remote and underserved areas.
The premier said this during the Sarawak Semiconductor Engagement Session, co-hosted by SMD Semiconductor and the University of Bristol, at the NCC – Innovation for Industry, Bristol and Bath Science Park.
The high-level engagement brought together over 80 policymakers, researchers, and industry experts from across the United Kingdom, reinforcing strategic collaboration in semiconductors, aerospace, space technologies, and data-driven systems.
He emphasised that the initiatives form part of Sarawak’s broader push into advanced, innovation-led industries, with semiconductors serving as a key enabler across multiple high- impact sectors.
“These technologies underpin essential data capabilities that drive connectivity and real-world applications, particularly in extending high-speed, low-latency access to remote and underserved areas,” he said.
“Today’s session reinforced that collaboration with the University of Bristol, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding earlier in Sarawak.
“Building capabilities in these advanced industries cannot be done in isolation,” the Premier stressed.
“Partnerships with institutions such as the University of Bristol allow Sarawak to accelerate capability development, strengthen technical depth, and move more efficiently into high-value segments,” he further stressed.
The Premier highlighted the integration of Sarawak’s energy transition agenda with its semiconductor ambition.
The state is investing in renewable energy, hydrogen and sustainable infrastructure, and he pointed out that compound semiconductor technologies – particularly Gallium Nitride (GaN) – are critical to energy efficiency and low-carbon solutions. Sarawak is advancing GaN technologies through its state-backed entity SMD Semiconductor, in collaboration with CSA Catapult, X-Fab, Camutronics and the University of Bristol.
The engagement also spotlighted Sarawak’s growing focus on aerospace, satellite and data-driven systems. The Premier announced that Sarawak is exploring the development and potential launch of its own Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite with international partners including the UK.
“This will enable us to develop critical data capabilities that support climate-informed decision-making, while strengthening our telecommunications infrastructure, particularly in remote and underserved areas,” he said.
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