GEORGE TOWN, September 16 – Penang has officially launched its STEM Talent Blueprint, aiming to build a robust and sustainable STEM workforce in support of Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030 and National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS). The initiative, developed by the Penang STEM Working Group—comprised of key stakeholders such as InvestPenang, Penang Institute, and industry leaders like Intel and Motorola Solutions—aims to train and upskill 60,000 engineers to meet the growing demands of the semiconductor industry.
The STEM Talent Blueprint incorporates the THRIVE principles, focusing on transforming, hiring, and retaining talent to propel Penang’s high-tech industries forward. The plan outlines the “2X strategy,” aiming to double STEM enrolment, university output, and high-value job creation. In addition, it seeks to enhance female participation in STEM and develop a talent pipeline from primary education through post-tertiary levels.
Launched by Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, the blueprint is a key component of the NSS, aiming to attract RM500 billion in investments by addressing the country’s engineering talent gap. The Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, welcomed the initiative, underscoring its importance in positioning Malaysia as a regional manufacturing and services hub.
