In this insightful episode of The Semiconductor Podcast (TSP), we sit down with industry veteran ET Tan to explore the incredible 30-year evolution of the semiconductor industry in Penang 🏭💡. From the early economic shifts 💰 to the initial reactions of job seekers 👨🎓➡️👨🏭, we dive deep into how skill development 🛠️ and university involvement 🎓 have shaped Malaysia’s tech ecosystem.
We also discuss whether Penang is outsourcing its workload 🌍, how semiconductors have fueled Malaysia’s economy post-independence 🇲🇾, and the key factors that will define the next decade of the global semiconductor industry 🚀📡.
Wrapping up, ET Tan shares invaluable career advice for young engineers 🔧📖—how to stay technically relevant and future-proof in this ever-evolving field. 📢 Don’t miss this power-packed discussion on one of Asia’s most dynamic semiconductor hubs! Tune in now! 🎧✨ 🔹 Key Discussion Points: 📈 The evolution of Penang’s semiconductor industry over the last three decades. 💰 The economic shifts in Malaysia when the semiconductor industry began. 👨💼 The initial reaction of job seekers to semiconductor opportunities. 🛠️ Advancements in skill development for semiconductor professionals. 🎓 The increasing role of universities in shaping the semiconductor ecosystem. 🌍 The trend of outsourcing semiconductor workload from Penang to other regions. 🇲🇾 The semiconductor industry's contribution to Malaysia’s economy post-independence. 🚀 Key factors that will drive the global semiconductor industry over the next 10 years. 🔧 Expert career advice for young engineers on staying technically relevant and future-ready. 🎧 Tune in now to gain expert insights into Penang’s semiconductor journey and its future! 🚀 In this podcast series, discussion on VLSI and its related fields is presented, focusing on recent developments and advancements in the industry. Topics such as the latest trends and innovations in semiconductor technology are explored, offering insights into the evolving landscape. Career guidance is shared, providing practical advice for navigating the field, along with success stories that highlight the journeys of professionals who have made their mark in VLSI. Whether for students, professionals, or those interested in the subject, valuable knowledge is offered to help stay informed and succeed in this dynamic area.Watch the podcast here.
Guest : ET Tan
ET Tan is a technology veteran with over 35 years of experience in innovation and
commercialization. He began his career in Silicon Valley and Silicon Glen, working with HP
and Seagate on product development and market-entry strategies for leading-edge
technologies. Returning to Malaysia, he served in leadership roles including VP of Strategic
Management at Silterra, CEO of Penang Skills Development Centre (PSDC), and Board
Member of MIMOS, Malaysia's applied research and development centre. Now, as MD of ET
Partners, he helps organizations build technology roadmaps that capitalise on opportunities
in chip design, advanced packaging, and manufacturing. With an BSc(Hon) from Imperial
College London and an executive MBA from Cranfield, Mr. Tan brings deep technical and
strategic expertise to discussions on how companies in Asia can unlock their semiconductor
potential in the race to a $1 trillion industry by 2030.
Credits :
Image by Lucas Wendt from Pixabay
