Petaling Jaya: Kampung Tunku City Councilor Lim Ee Wei said that achieving the goal of training and upskilling 60,000 engineers under the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS) will require improved workforce standards to sustain growth. He said it was extremely important to focus on improvement.
He said stakeholders must prioritize improved pay, work-life balance, social protection and inclusion.
“Stakeholders and industry need to pivot their approach to workforce development. We have to do better this time,” she said today at the NXP Innovation World Tour 2024.
Mr Lim noted that the push to strengthen workforce standards is consistent with the government’s broader ambitions to move up the semiconductor value chain. “With US$5.3 billion (RM22.7 billion) in financial support and incentives, NSS aims to transform Malaysia from a manufacturing hub to a hub for advanced semiconductor design, packaging and equipment. Strategic Infrastructure and Technology The goals are clear, but the need to improve the treatment and development of human capital in parallel is critical.
He said this would accelerate the country’s journey towards becoming a global semiconductor powerhouse under the NSS. “Workforce improvement is essential to attracting new talent to the semiconductor industry. This will directly ensure that these professionals receive competitive salaries, a healthy work-life balance, and adequate social protection. Guaranteed.”
Lim said as global competition for technical talent intensifies, Malaysia needs to offer more than just employment opportunities if it aims to retain skilled workers in the long term. said.
He said the current generation of engineers and workers entering the semiconductor field faces a different set of challenges than their predecessors.
“Beyond technical skills, today’s employees are increasingly focused on work environments that support mental health, offer flexible work arrangements, and value inclusivity.Employee expectations are changing will require a change in how businesses and governments approach talent management in the industry.”
The success of NSS depends not only on technological advances, but also on creating a welcoming environment where workers are valued and supported.
“It’s not just about building the workforce, it’s about building the future of the people who drive our industry forward,” Mr Lim said.
The two-day event highlighted collaboration between federal and state agencies, industry stakeholders, and academic institutions.
