Malaysian chip designers join Rapidus ecosystem to tap Japan's 2nm foundry

Four Malaysian chip designers—SkyeChip, Oppstar Technology, Infinecs Systems and GreatAsic Technology—have been admitted as Design Solution Associates in Rapidus' Collaborative Open Rapid Ecosystem, which will support the Japanese foundry's 2nm manufacturing slated for 2027. The alliance connects prospective customers with firms that can supply semiconductor IP, memory interface technology, network-on-chip solutions and advanced IC design expertise.

Although the collaboration has not yet generated firm orders or revenue, it dovetails with Malaysia's National Semiconductor Strategy to move up the value chain into design, IP and advanced packaging. SkyeChip highlighted its AI and high-performance computing IP, while Oppstar emphasized its advanced-node layout and custom IP capabilities. Singapore’s Quest Global also joined, expanding the ecosystem’s Southeast Asian representation. Rapidus aims to mitigate the global talent shortage by offering early-stage design support through partners such as Synopsys, Cadence and major IT services firms.