Malay delegation shows interest in partnering with State in Quantum Technology sector

Bengaluru: A high-level delegation from Penang, Malaysia — renowned globally as a semiconductor hub — has expressed a strong inclination to partner with the Karnataka government for the development of Quantum Technology, Minor Irrigation, Science, and Technology Minister N.S. Boseraju recently said.

The Minister shared this information following a meeting with the delegation led by Jagdeep Singh Deo, Deputy Chief Minister of Penang State, at Vikasa Soudha.

The delegation led by the Deputy Chief Minister openly appreciated the strides made by the Karnataka government in Science and Technology. Speaking at the meeting, Deo elaborated on the success model of his state.

“Although Penang is geographically a small state, it has grown into a global power in the semiconductor sector. The primary reason for this success is our robust Industry-Research Collaboration, where Penang University has been instrumental,” Deo remarked.

He explained how the university played a pivotal role in building a research ecosystem that directly supports the industry, a model he suggested expanding between the two states.

Both leaders opined that while Bengaluru is at the forefront of the Electronics sector, Penang was witnessing rapid growth in the semiconductor industry.

They agreed that the synergy between these two domains would create immense opportunities for both regions.

During the interaction, Boseraju highlighted Karnataka’s innovative achievements in the Minor Irrigation sector.

He drew attention to the state’s ‘Waste to Wealth’ initiatives, specifically the KC Valley (Koramangala-Challaghatta) and HN Valley (Hebbal-Nagawara) projects.

“By treating sewage water and filling tanks in drought-prone districts, we have successfully recharged groundwater levels and supported agriculture. This is a model of sustainable development,” the Minister explained to the delegation.

The Penang delegation commended the Karnataka government’s concept of nurturing Quantum Technology and promoting a scientific temper among the youth.

Significantly, the delegation expressed interest in becoming a part of Karnataka’s ambitious Quantum Action Plan.

Welcoming this proposal, Boseraju stated, “Our government is open to collaboration with Penang, often referred to as the ‘Silicon Valley of the East.’ This partnership will be complementary to the technological growth of both provinces.”

Following the discussions, Deputy Chief Minister Jagdeep Singh Deo extended an official invitation to Boseraju to visit Malaysia and Penang.

The invitation was specifically extended for the Minister to tour Penang’s university research facilities and the semiconductor ecosystem to understand the collaborative framework better and to finalize the proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Human Resource Development.