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ASM hosted a visit from Professor Dr Sofiene Tahar of Concordia University, Canada, on 14 January 2026.
Professor Sofiene signing the ASM Guest Book.
The meeting provided valuable insights into Canada’s industry-driven research ecosystem and opened avenues for potential collaboration between Malaysia and Canada.
Professor Dr Sofiene Tahar, a Professor at Concordia University, shared his expertise in microprocessor and system-on-chip verification, highlighting his leadership in establishing industrial-based laboratories that closely integrate academia with industry needs.
Professor Sofiene.
He explained that in Canada, research funding is largely tied to industry commitment, ensuring that projects are high-impact, industry-relevant, and focused on tangible outcomes rather than publications alone.
This approach creates a win-win ecosystem where industries gain skilled talent, students acquire hands-on experience, and research delivers practical value.
He also emphasised the critical importance of verification in semiconductor-related products development, noting that up to 70–80% of project budgets are allocated to verification to ensure reliability and safety before market entry.
Drawing from real-world examples, he illustrated how rigorous verification underpins aviation safety, modern vehicles, household electronics, and increasingly complex systems ranging from smartphones to AI-enabled cars.
Academician Datuk Dr Tengku Mohd Azzman Shariffadeen FASc.
Academician Datuk Dr Tengku Mohd Azzman Shariffadeen FASc highlighted ASM’s structured stakeholder engagement approach in developing and adopting science, technology, innovation and economy (STIE) policies.
Presentations by ASM officers further outlined ASM’s roles, international networks, and the Malaysia Science Endowment (MSE), with Canada identified as a potential collaborator.
The meeting concluded with strong interest in collaboration between Concordia University and ASM, particularly in microprocessor research, industry partnerships, talent development, joint projects, and knowledge exchange.