The KL20 event, aimed at developing Malaysia's semiconductor industry, was held for the first time in Penang, with the establishment of 2 funds for the semiconductor sector announced at the same time. Related events are also planned for Johor and Kuala Lumpur.
Malaysia's Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry held the KL20 event in Penang on 24 September to develop the semiconductor industry. It was the first such event and formed part of an initiative based on the KL20 action paper published by the ministry in April 2024. A related event was held in Johor on 29 September, and another is planned for Kuala Lumpur.
In conjunction with the event, the Penang state government announced the establishment of 2 strategic funds for the semiconductor industry together with the ministry. The first is the Strategic Technology Fund, to which the state government will contribute 50 million ringgit to support the commercialisation of ideas and technologies, the development of proprietary IP and overseas expansion. The second is an expansion of Penang Silicon Design @5km+, to which the ministry will contribute 25 million ringgit for expanded incubation facilities, technology development, testing and proof-of-concept work.
Japanese companies also took part in the KL20 event. JETRO, an official partner, set up a promotional booth. Thirty-seven semiconductor companies from Penang exhibited at the venue, showcasing IC design and advanced packaging technologies. Japan's TOPPAN and Digital Penang signed an MOU, with Digital Penang cooperating as the implementing organisation for Penang Silicon Design @5km+. TAI and Oppstar also took part in panel discussions.