Malaysia’s Center for Collaborative Research in Engineering, Science, and Technology (CREST) is driving the country’s semiconductor industry forward with a strong focus on research, talent development, and commercialization. Since its establishment in 2011, CREST has forged partnerships with government agencies, industry giants, and universities, cementing its role as a leader in advancing Malaysia’s technological capabilities and economic growth.
CREST’s research agenda targets six key areas: LED technology, IC design, advanced manufacturing, embedded systems, and other critical semiconductor segments. “Our goal is to address industry needs head-on,” explains Founder and CEO Jaffri Ibrahim, emphasizing CREST’s commitment to technology-driven growth across multiple fields. By bridging gaps between sectors, CREST is not only strengthening Malaysia’s semiconductor market but also preparing a skilled workforce to meet future industry demands.
At the heart of CREST’s R&D approach is a collaborative model that has facilitated over 200 co-funded projects, with industry partners contributing roughly 60% of the funding. This structure fosters a cooperative environment, where companies work on shared research initiatives, spurring productivity and opening new revenue streams within Malaysia’s semiconductor sector. “Our collaborative framework is key to driving both innovation and strategic growth,” says Ibrahim. By uniting industry players, CREST is shaping a vibrant, future-ready semiconductor ecosystem.
Aligned with Malaysia’s National Semiconductor Strategy, CREST’s talent programs aim to train 60,000 engineers, and the organization has already guided over 10,000 individuals into STEM careers. This commitment to talent development directly supports Malaysia’s ambition to be a global semiconductor leader. “We’re focused on creating a capable workforce that will elevate Malaysia’s standing in the semiconductor industry,” adds Ibrahim.
The rise in foreign direct investments underscores CREST’s success in making Malaysia a prime semiconductor destination. Recent expansions by industry leaders such as Intel, Infineon, and Lam Research highlight Malaysia’s growing appeal. To further support innovation, CREST has partnered with the University of Science Malaysia to establish an incubation center in Penang, providing essential resources and mentorship to nurture both local and foreign entrepreneurs.
Ibrahim highlights CREST’s dedication to advancing the Prime Minister’s National Semiconductor Strategy through research-led innovation, strategic alliances, and a robust talent pipeline. “CREST is fully committed to supporting Malaysia’s growth as a global semiconductor hub,” he says. With its strategic approach and collaborative initiatives, CREST is positioning Malaysia for continued economic and technological advancement in an increasingly competitive semiconductor landscape.
