21,391 semiconductor workers trained as industry targets 60,000

KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 21,391 people had been trained in the semiconductor sector as of June 2026, the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) said.

The government is targeting 60,000 highly skilled workers in the sector by 2030 to support Malaysia's transition towards higher-value activities, it said.

"The talents were trained through various talent development programmes conducted by higher education institutions and technical training providers.

"The efforts are aimed at ensuring local talent development keeps pace with industry needs, improving graduates' employability and strengthening local companies' ability to master technology and develop their own intellectual property," it said in a written parliamentary reply yesterday.

Miti was responding to Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar (PN-Kemaman), who asked about the government's plans to enhance Malaysia's capabilities in the global semiconductor supply chain.

Last year, Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong said Malaysia was on track to meet its target of producing 60,000 highly skilled workers for the semiconductor industry by 2030.

He said 13,679 engineers and skilled technical personnel had so far been trained, certified and absorbed across various segments of the semiconductor industry.

He said the talent target covers integrated circuit design, advanced packaging, wafer fabrication, and research and development.