Penang keen to be part of Karnataka’s quantum action plan

Bengaluru: A delegation from Penang, Malaysia, on a visit to Bengaluru, has expressed a strong inclination to partner with the Karnataka government for the development of quantum technology, said N S Boseraju, Minister for Science and Technology.

The delegation, led by Deputy Chief Minister Jagdeep Singh Deo, called on the minister at the Vikasa Soudha on Tuesday. 

"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, in which Penang University has been instrumental," Deo said.

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 said, while Bengaluru is at the forefront of the electronics sector, Penang is witnessing rapid growth in the semiconductor industry. They agreed that the synergy between these two domains would create immense opportunities for both regions.

The Penang delegation commended the government's initiative to nurture quantum technology and promote scientific temper among the youth.

The delegation expressed interest in becoming a part of Karnataka’s 'quantum action plan'.

Welcoming this proposal, Boseraju said, "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 regions".

The ministers are currently working on a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for human resource development.

Department of IT/BT, and Science & Technology secretary Dr N Manjula, K-STEPS managing director Sadashiva Prabhu and officials from the Penang state government were present.