Melaka Pushes for Talent Development as Semiconductor Industry Expands

As Malaysia advances its National Semiconductor Strategy, the focus is shifting beyond traditional assembly and testing towards higher-value activities such as design and advanced packaging.

With major industry players strengthening their footprint in Melaka, including Texas Instruments’ plan to internalise 90% of its assembly and test operations by 2030, the state’s semiconductor ecosystem continues to grow in importance. However, rapid industry expansion has also highlighted a key challenge — the shortage of skilled professionals to meet industry demands.

Recognising this gap, Invest Melaka Berhad, through its Head of Free Industrial Zone Authority, Mr Amirul Asyraff Bin Ishak, facilitated a strategic dialogue session on 3 February with key stakeholders to review industry challenges of the semiconductor sector in Melaka.

The session was attended by YB Datuk Khaidhirah, Deputy EXCO for Investment, Industry & TVET Development, together with Mr Ridwan, COO of MCORP and Mrs Faz Adnan, Senior Manager of MSIA. Industry leaders present included Mr Wang Choon Seang, Managing Director of Testhub Sdn Bhd, and Mr KC Tay, Managing Director of Dominant Opto Technologies Sdn Bhd.

Among the key areas discussed was talent development, including the role of the Melaka TVET Centre of Excellence in cultivating a future-ready workforce aligned with industry needs.

By convening key stakeholders on a common platform, Invest Melaka continues to play a proactive role in ensuring Melaka remains resilient within Malaysia’s semiconductor landscape.