Malaysia launches semiconductor academy to build domestic chip-design talent
Malaysia's Human Resources Ministry will establish a semiconductor academy to train local workers in chip design and artificial intelligence manufacturing, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrishnan said on May 1.
The KESUMA Semiconductor Academy (ASK) aligns with Malaysia's 13th Malaysia Plan to position the country as an AI nation. Ramanan said the goal is to shift Malaysia from technology user to technology creator, with "Made by Malaysia" labels appearing on integrated circuits and AI software worldwide.
The announcement came during the National Workers' Day celebration in Kuala Lumpur, attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and other Cabinet ministers.
Support for gig and informal workers
The ministry also introduced the Mobile Gig Clinic initiative, placing health and welfare centers in delivery hubs and city centers to register gig workers for Social Security Organisation (SOCSO) contributions.
Registered gig workers will receive the Madani Workers' Card, providing free health check-ups and mental counselling at mobile clinics. Starting in June, SOCSO will launch Skim Lindung 24 Jam, extending coverage to 9.6 million contributors outside working hours.
Labor law reforms and expanded benefits
KESUMA is reforming 26 labour laws and introducing a Mobile Labour Court to improve worker access to justice.
The age limit for the Skim Lindung Kasih program for housewives will rise to 60 years, benefiting more than 720,000 women.
Job fair offers 4,000 positions
More than 15,000 workers attended the celebration, which featured a career carnival offering 4,000 job vacancies through the MYFutureJobs platform. Salaries ranged from RM2,500 to RM16,000.
The carnival included direct interviews with employers, career guidance, and participation from over 50 exhibitors from government ministries and agencies.
HR professionals overseeing workforce development and talent acquisition may find value in reviewing AI for Human Resources to understand how AI tools support recruitment and workforce planning. For senior HR leaders, the AI Learning Path for CHROs covers strategic workforce transformation initiatives similar to those outlined in Malaysia's plan.
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