GEORGE TOWN, August 25 – Wawasan Open University (WOU) made significant strides in Malaysia’s semiconductor sector by hosting a high-profile dialogue with Dr. Richard Chang Ru-gin, founder of China’s leading chipmaker SMIC, on August 17, 2024. The event, part of WOU’s #Conversations@WOU series and held in collaboration with Waftech Sdn Bhd and BlueChip Venture Capital, brought together industry leaders and academics to discuss Malaysia’s potential to become a global semiconductor hub. Dr. Chang shared strategic insights and highlighted the country’s advantages, including its diplomatic relations and neutrality, which could accelerate its semiconductor capabilities.
Moderated by CK Tan, COO of BlueChip VC, the dialogue also emphasized Malaysia’s opportunity to learn from China’s semiconductor growth journey. Notable attendees, including Tan Sri Dr. Koh Tsu Koon, Dato’ Seri PY Lai, and Dato’ Loo Lee Lian, underscored WOU’s role in bridging academia with industry to drive innovation and foster a robust semiconductor ecosystem in Penang. The event, which saw around 100 participants, reaffirmed WOU’s commitment to enhancing knowledge exchange and cultivating the talent necessary for advancing Malaysia’s technological sector.
