Malaysia and Korea Explore Strategic Collaboration Opportunities in AI and Semiconductor Ecosystems

MIDA Seoul participated in the “AI Synergy Global Link” seminar, held as part of AI EXPO KOREA 2026—one of the country’s leading artificial intelligence exhibitions and industry platforms. The event was co-organised by the Korea Artificial Intelligence Association, Seoul MESSE Co., Ltd., and the Artificial Intelligence Times.

Held from 6 to 8 May 2026 at COEX Seoul, AI EXPO KOREA 2026 brought together approximately 350 companies, 600 booths, and 50,000 visitors, providing a major platform for showcasing developments in artificial intelligence (AI), digital innovation, and next-generation technologies.

The “AI Synergy Global Link” seminar featured presentations by embassies, investment promotion agencies, and industry representatives on global AI trends, overseas market opportunities, investment ecosystems, and strategic initiatives supporting international expansion and cross-border collaboration.

During the seminar, Mr. Redzuan Abd Rahman, Director of MIDA Seoul, delivered a presentation titled “Embracing AI: Malaysia’s Path Forward”, highlighting Malaysia’s growing role in the regional AI and semiconductor landscape.

The presentation outlined Malaysia’s strategic initiatives under the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030 and the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS), which aim to strengthen the country’s semiconductor ecosystem, digital capabilities, talent development, and AI-driven industrial transformation. Mr. Redzuan also shared insights on the Government support, measures and incentives available to Korean companies, while highlighting opportunities for collaboration in AI-driven manufacturing, semiconductor supply chains, advanced technologies, and digital innovation.

Malaysia and Korea already enjoy a longstanding investment partnership. As of 2025, Korea has implemented investments totalling RM49.5 billion across more than 400 projects in Malaysia, creating nearly 50,000 jobs. These investments span strategic sectors including chemicals and chemical products; basic metal products; transport equipment; electrical and electronics products; and petroleum products, underscoring Korean companies’ continued confidence in Malaysia’s investment ecosystem.

As part of its broader industrial transformation agenda, Malaysia is steadily advancing its ambition to become a regional hub for AI, advanced manufacturing, and next-generation technologies. Under NIMP 2030, the Government places strong emphasis on digitalisation, industrial upgrading, and technology-driven economic growth, with key focus areas including AI, advanced automation, cloud computing, robotics, and additive manufacturing.

Malaysia’s growing focus on the digital and AI ecosystem is supported by strong national policy direction and ecosystem development. Ranked 38th globally in the Oxford Insights Government AI Readiness Index 2025, Malaysia’s strategy to become a leading AI powerhouse by 2030 is anchored in Malaysia Digital 2030 (MD2030) and supported by the AI Technology Action Plan 2026–2030. These frameworks outline key initiatives to accelerate AI adoption, strengthen digital governance, and enhance innovation across industries.

Complementing this ambition is Malaysia’s long-established semiconductor ecosystem, particularly in semiconductor assembly, testing, and advanced packaging activities, built on decades of manufacturing expertise, an extensive industrial supply chain network, and a conducive business environment. These established capabilities provide a foundation for Malaysia’s broader AI and digital ambitions, especially as global demand for semiconductors and advanced computing infrastructure continues to grow alongside accelerating AI adoption worldwide.

Against this backdrop, Malaysia and Korea are well-positioned to deepen collaboration across the evolving AI and semiconductor landscape. Both countries possess complementary strengths that create opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships across the value chain.

Korean companies are globally recognised for their advanced semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, technological leadership, and innovation-driven industries. Meanwhile, Malaysia offers a strategic gateway into Southeast Asia, a competitive manufacturing environment, a robust industrial ecosystem, and expanding digital infrastructure. Together, these complementary strengths create opportunities for collaboration in AI-driven manufacturing, semiconductor supply chain development, advanced materials, IC design, advanced packaging technologies, cloud and data centre ecosystems, talent development, and broader digital innovation initiatives.

As industries worldwide continue to accelerate AI adoption and digital transformation, Malaysia remains committed to being a reliable strategic partner for Korean companies seeking regional expansion opportunities in Southeast Asia.

Through continued engagement with Korean industry stakeholders, MIDA Seoul will continue to facilitate strategic collaborations that strengthen innovation, supply chain resilience, and sustainable growth across the regional technology ecosystem.