By Siti Rohaizah Zainal
SUBANG JAYA, July 4 — The state government's emphasis on integrated circuit (IC) design development is proof of Selangor's commitment to creating more high-paying job opportunities for the people.
Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin said focus is not only on the semiconductor industry, but also covers e-commerce and startup development programmes, through the Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec).
"Sidec implements various initiatives such as e-commerce programmes that involve local hawkers as well as those that seek to support and expand startups until they succeed," he said.
"We have also moved aggressively into the semiconductor industry over the past two years, including IC design, which can offer graduates a monthly salary of up to RM6,000."
"This is evidence of the state's commitment to creating jobs that pay well," he said, adding that e-commerce remains one of the state's top priorities, as seen in the success of the Platform Selangor (PLATS) programme, which has generated income of up to RM5 million ringgit."
Amirudin said this after attending Sidec's 10-year anniversary celebration here last night, which was attended by the group's chief executive officer Yong Kai Peng.
The ceremony saw the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Sidec, Permodalan Negeri Selangor Bhd (PNSB) and venture capital firm specialising in early-stage fintech and insurtech, Artem Ventures, to enhance cooperation in the semiconductor industry.
Meanwhile, at the event, Parti Keadilan Rakyat deputy president and former MP Nurul Izzah Anwar, as well as two industry experts — Dr Shang Yi Chiang and Datuk Lai Yit Loong — were appointed as Sidec's new strategic advisers.
In his speech earlier, Amirudin said Selangor holds a strategic position in the development of the semiconductor industry, which also involves artificial intelligence (AI) technology.
He said the state is ready to become a key player in the nation’s effort to achieve leading tech-driven economy status in Asia.
On Nurul Izzah’s appointment, Amirudin expressed confidence that her experience and previous involvements would contribute to the comprehensive planning of the semiconductor industry in the state.
“Izzah has had her own role to play and has been involved behind the scenes in the industry since last year.
"It is hoped that this appointment will help bridge the state government with the Federal government and other stakeholders,” he said.
