MIDA, Bintang Capital launch new semiconductor fund in boost to Malaysia’s NSS

• Partners Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing to identify promising SMEs
• Target firms within & adjacent to semicon value chain, with sustainable practices

The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing (FMM), and Bintang Capital Partners (Bintang Capital) signed a MoU on 16 April that introduces the Bintang Semiconductor Impact Fund I (BSIF I), designed to support Malaysia’s semiconductor industry while promoting sustainable practices and social impact. The announcement did not share any financial details of the fund size or how much MIDA is contributing. 

BSIF I is aimed at future-proofing Malaysia’s semiconductor industry by addressing both social and environmental opportunities within the sector. It targets investments in companies within and adjacent to the semiconductor value chain, including high-tech manufacturing and automation. The fund emphasises carbon transition initiatives and promotes career development opportunities for women, while adhering to global B Corp certification standards.

The fund aligns with Malaysia’s National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS) goals, focusing on developing local semiconductor capabilities and supporting SME growth while preparing companies for potential initial public offerings (IPO).

Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim, MIDA CEO, said “This transformative partnership marks a pivotal moment in Malaysia’s semiconductor journey. By combining MIDA’s strategic oversight, FMM’s extensive industry network, and Bintang Capital’s financial expertise, we’re creating a powerful ecosystem that will elevate local companies to global standards. Our focus is to develop world-class capabilities, attract premium investments, and establish Malaysia as a trusted global semiconductor hub. This collaboration provides the perfect platform to nurture innovation, drive sustainable practices, and create lasting economic impact for our nation.”

Johan Rozali-Wathooth, Bintang Capital CEO said, “It takes a village to raise a child – the collaboration between Bintang Capital, MIDA and FMM brings together three critical elements needed to ‘raise’ a vibrant and sustainable high technology manufacturing industry. The collaboration combines Bintang Capital’s investment and impact track record, MIDA’s deep policy expertise, and FMM’s extensive networks within Malaysia’s manufacturing sector.”

On the impact front, Johan touts Bintang Capital as a passionate advocate for building companies which represent the very best ideals of responsible capitalism: companies which meet the highest standards of governance and ethicality as represented by B Corp Certification, that also promote and support the empowerment of women, and who also champion environmentally sustainability.

“Our success will put Malaysia on the global map in terms of having a highly differentiated and impactful high-technology manufacturing ecosystem,” he said.

Soh Thian Lai, FMM President said, “As the voice of the manufacturing sector, FMM is pleased to support this initiative, which will enable local businesses to enhance their capabilities, tap into funding opportunities, and adopt best practices in governance and sustainability. At the same time, the fund aligns with FMM’s ambitious aspiration to cultivate 100 IPO-ready companies within five years.”

Supporting such promising enterprises helps FMM in its mission to strengthen Malaysia’s manufacturing landscape, driving innovation and competitiveness across the region, he added.