TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan semiconductor experts discussed cooperation with US and Indonesian counterparts at the International Conference on Sustainable Semiconductor Manufacturing on Tuesday (Aug. 13) in Surabaya, Indonesia.

Co-organized and hosted at Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology (ITS), the event marks the first time the three countries have held a semiconductor forum, per CNA. High-ranking officials including Taiwan representative to Indonesia Chen Chung (陳忠) and US General Consul in Jakarta Christopher Green attended and delivered speeches.

Patrick Kurniawan, a researcher at Indonesia’s Habibie Center think tank, said the conference reflects the US’s ongoing support for developing the semiconductor industries in Indonesia and other Southeast Asian countries. He said the US places great importance on the semiconductor industry and is actively taking measures to maintain its dominant position in the global semiconductor supply chain.

ITS President Bambang Pramujati said the semiconductor field is part of Indonesia's “Golden Indonesia 2024 Vision,” per RTI. Indonesia possesses abundant natural resources such as silica sand and nickel, which are essential components for semiconductor production, he explained.

"Semiconductors are a high-value industry that can significantly boost Indonesia’s economy,” Pramujati said. “However, Indonesia still faces the challenge of a lack of semiconductor technology talent, making it necessary to collaborate with international partners, such as the US and Taiwan.”