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Recently, a group of Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science and Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence students from Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) attended the Malaysia Semiconductor Recruitment Day (MSRD) 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre; gaining first-hand exposure to career opportunities and industry developments within Malaysia’s growing semiconductor sector.

Led by Dr Adeline Sneha John Chrisastum (Senior Lecturer, School of Computing at APU) and Ms Thavamalini Sivasamy (Lecturer, School of Computing at APU), the students explored the exhibition floor, engaged with industry representatives, and attended sessions that provided insights into the skills, career pathways, and emerging technologies shaping the semiconductor landscape. 

Exploring Industry Opportunities

The exhibition floor provided students with an opportunity to interact directly with employers and organisations across the semiconductor ecosystem.

Throughout the exhibition, students spoke with recruiters about internship and employment opportunities, graduate programmes, and the technical skills sought by employers.

These conversations gave them a better understanding of how their backgrounds in computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and related fields could translate into roles within the semiconductor industry.

The experience also allowed students to learn more about the growing intersection between AI and semiconductor development, particularly as AI becomes increasingly relevant to areas such as chip design, manufacturing, and intelligent hardware.

Understanding Career Pathways

Beyond the exhibition booths, students joined the “Transisi Kerjaya PLATS” pocket talk, which brought together career and industry speakers to share perspectives on career transitions and opportunities within the semiconductor ecosystem.

Held before a packed auditorium of students and young professionals from various institutions, the session provided practical guidance on navigating career pathways, understanding industry expectations, and preparing for the changing demands of the workplace.

The students gained a broader perspective on the importance of developing relevant skills; adapting to different career opportunities and making informed decisions, as they prepare to enter the workforce.

Connecting AI learning with Semiconductor Developments

Students also participated in the Selangor AI and Semiconductor (AiSEM) Summit; gaining further exposure to developments at the intersection of AI and semiconductor technology.

The conference provided students with an opportunity to connect areas covered in their studies; including computing, machine learning, and intelligent systems, with their applications in the semiconductor industry.

Additionally, the conference demonstrated how AI is becoming increasingly connected to semiconductor innovation, from AI-assisted chip design and development to edge computing and intelligent hardware. 

Preparing Students for a growing Industry

Overall, MSRD 2026 provided students with valuable exposure to Malaysia’s semiconductor ecosystem, while reinforcing the relevance of their academic knowledge to evolving industry needs.

Assoc Prof Ts Dr Tan Chin Ike (Head, School of Computing at APU) highlighted that it was encouraging to see the students take part in MSRD 2026.

“AI and semiconductors are closely linked, and events like this help students at different stages of their studies connect classroom learning with real industry needs.

“Our goal is not simply to prepare students for the jobs of today, but, to equip them with the knowledge, adaptability, and innovative mindset to shape the technologies of tomorrow,” he said.