PENANG: WOU (Wawasan Open University) strengthened its engagement with Malaysia’s semiconductor industry by hosting an insightful dialogue featuring Dr. Richard Chang Ru-gin, founder of China’s leading chipmaker, SMIC. The event, held on 17 August 2024, in collaboration with Waftech Sdn Bhd and BlueChip Venture Capital, gathered industry leaders and academics to explore Malaysia’s potential as a global semiconductor powerhouse.

Dr. Chang, renowned for his pivotal contributions to China’s semiconductor industry, participated in an engaging discussion as part of WOU’s #Conversations@WOU series. This series convenes thought leaders and industry pioneers to explore critical global issues. He outlined Malaysia’s path to semiconductor prominence, citing five strategic imperatives crucial for its advancement. These include defining clear development objectives, securing reliable partnerships, and fostering a conducive investment climate.

Dr. Chang highlighted Malaysia’s strategic advantage in the global semiconductor landscape, citing the nation’s strong diplomatic relations and neutrality in global conflicts. These factors, he noted, facilitate Malaysia’s access to advanced technologies, paving the way for enhanced chip manufacturing capabilities. Dr. Chang expressed confidence in Malaysia’s potential to evolve beyond its current role as a service provider, envisioning its emergence as a hub of semiconductor innovation akin to industry leaders like Japan and South Korea.

Moderated by CK Tan, COO of BlueChip VC, the dialogue also drew parallels between China’s semiconductor journey and Malaysia’s current position, highlighting opportunities for mutual learning and collaboration. “Malaysia can leverage its strong ties with China to accelerate its semiconductor capabilities,” he remarked, noting potential support from Chinese firms.

Notable attendees included Tan Sri Dr. Koh Tsu Koon, Chairman of WOU’s Board of Governors, Dato’ Seri PY Lai of BlueChip VC, and Dato’ Loo Lee Lian, CEO of InvestPenang, along with other industry leaders. This diverse gathering of academic and industry figures underscored WOU’s active role in fostering meaningful dialogue between educational institutions and the semiconductor sector. The event, held at The Hall@Homestead, drew around 70 physical attendees and approximately 30 online participants, totaling around 100 attendees. It drew C-suite leaders from top firms like Greatech, Inari, and Pentamaster, highlighting WOU’s influence in shaping the industry.

The #Conversation@WOU series reflects WOU’s commitment to advancing knowledge exchange and thought leadership. By bridging academia with industry leaders, WOU is actively cultivating the talent pipeline that is crucial for Penang’s thriving semiconductor and electronics industry. Additionally, WOU also aims to be a vital hub for the industry professionals to share knowledge and experiences, further strengthening the region’s technological ecosystem.

ABOUT WOU Established in 2006, Wawasan Open University (WOU) is a private, non-profit institution dedicated to providing flexible, accessible, and online education for adult learners. This pioneering institution in open and distance learning (ODL) boasts a main campus by the sea in Penang and established Regional Centres and Offices nationwide, encompassing George Town, Johor Bahru, Kuching, Ipoh, and Kuala Lumpur. WOU caters to the evolving needs of the digital economy by offering undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, alongside micro-credential courses, equipping learners with the necessary skills to thrive in the ever-changing technological landscape. With nearly 30,000 students and over 8,000 graduates, WOU has demonstrably expanded access to tertiary education in Malaysia.

Contact:        

Rasidah Mion,
Corporate Communications Manager
rasidahbm@wou.edu.my 
019 314 2003