In an event held at the CSA Catapult facility in Newport, near Cardiff, United Kingdom, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg unveiled a prototype of an innovative Edge AI power converter device developed in Sarawak. The device, named ‘KETEQ AI’, was heralded by the Premier as the world’s first circuit-level device of its kind, marking a significant technological breakthrough in power electronics.

Premier Abang Johari highlighted the device’s capability to detect, predict, and autonomously correct system anomalies in real time, performing these functions in less than one-tenth of a millisecond. “Today, I am proud to share that the Edge AI Power Converter is a technological breakthrough and a world first. This pioneering device is designed to detect, predict, and autonomously correct system anomalies in real time, all within less than one-tenth of a millisecond,” he said during his launch speech.

The development of the KETEQ AI device is a result of collaborative efforts between Sarawak-based SMD Semiconductor Sdn Bhd and the UK-based CSA Catapult. Premier Abang Johari remarked on the profound impact of this innovation for Sarawak, describing it as “one of Sarawak’s most transformative accomplishments and a true game changer.” He recalled the beginnings of this journey, stating, “This journey began exactly one year ago, on April 23, 2024, when I stood before many of you at the House of Commons in the UK Parliament to witness the historic signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between SMD Semiconductor and CSA Catapult. That moment set in motion an extraordinary chapter for Sarawak’s innovation journey.”

The KETEQ AI power converter is designed with a broad range of applications in mind, including smart grids, electric vehicles, autonomous systems, industrial Internet of Things (IoT), predictive maintenance, and mission-critical control systems. The Premier emphasised its scalability, energy efficiency, and ultra-fast responsiveness, designed to meet the critical demands of future industries.

During the event, SMD Semiconductor CEO Shariman Jamil demonstrated the prototype’s capabilities, further underscoring the progress of the technology. Premier Abang Johari then officially launched the device with the declaration, “As you have just heard from Shariman Jamil’s demonstration on the development of this groundbreaking prototype – a milestone that marks a significant leap in Sarawak’s innovation journey – it is now my great pleasure to unveil the much-anticipated, proudly Sarawak-owned Edge AI Power Converter: KETEQ AI, ‘Innovation in just a Snap!’”

The ceremony also included the witnessing of agreement exchanges between SMD Semiconductor and CSA Catapult, along with additional agreements involving Silicon Catalyst and 5G3i Ltd. These partnerships are set to enhance collaboration opportunities with UK semiconductor industry players.

Additionally, Dato Sri Dr Wanlizozman Wan Omar, chairman of SMD Semiconductor and Sarawak State Financial Secretary, presented the Sarawak Semiconductor Roadmap 2030, outlining the strategic vision for semiconductor development in the region.

The event was attended by notable officials including Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister Dato Sri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, and State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.

Overall, the unveiling of the KETEQ AI device marks a milestone in Sarawak’s innovation landscape, underscoring the region’s growing influence in the field of semiconductor technology and power electronics. The Borneo Post Online is reporting.

Source: Noah Wire Services