Malaysia is stepping up efforts to move higher up the semiconductor value chain through a new industry collaboration between GreatAsic Technology Sdn Bhd and Xenith Technology Malaysia Sdn Bhd, the local unit of China-based Xenith Technology, under a programme facilitated by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA).
The partnership, formalised at the MIDA-GreatAsic Value Chain Programme, focuses on integrated circuit design and next-generation Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) development, an area widely seen as one of the highest value segments in the global semiconductor industry.
MIDA chief executive officer Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid said the collaboration reflects growing confidence in Malaysia’s engineering capabilities and the ability of local companies to participate in more advanced parts of the semiconductor ecosystem. He said it also supports national strategies under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the National Semiconductor Strategy.
GreatAsic said the partnership with Xenith will advance ADAS and semiconductor design capabilities while expanding technical opportunities for local engineers, supported by government facilitation and ecosystem development efforts.
Xenith Technology Malaysia said the collaboration marks a step forward in strengthening Malaysia’s semiconductor design ecosystem through joint development of advanced system-on-chip solutions for intelligent mobility applications, while also supporting knowledge transfer and talent development.
A key feature of the programme was a fireside chat session involving 20 newly recruited Malaysian engineers, highlighting the focus on developing local talent through hands-on exposure to semiconductor design work and global industry practices.
The collaboration is also expected to support expansion into fast-growing sectors such as electric vehicles and intelligent mobility, as Malaysia seeks to build domestic capabilities in emerging technologies while strengthening its position in the global semiconductor supply chain.
The initiative brought together representatives from government agencies and industry bodies, reflecting coordinated efforts to build a more integrated semiconductor ecosystem in Malaysia as part of broader industrial policy goals.
