UTM Becomes R&D&C Base for Malaysia's First Quantum Computing Hardware Company

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JOHOR BAHRU, Malaysia, Sept. 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is strengthening its role in Malaysia’s emerging quantum technology ecosystem as AQSolotl Pte. Ltd., a Singapore-based quantum technology company, establishes its research, development and commercialisation (R&D&C) operations at UTM Technovation Park in Johor Bahru.

The development makes AQSolotl the first quantum computing hardware company operating in Malaysia, marking an important step in translating UTM’s long-term research capabilities and international partnerships into advanced technology and industry development.

UTM has been developing expertise in quantum technologies since 2009 through collaborations with Japan, including The University of Osaka, before expanding its research network to Singapore in 2018.

Collaborations involving the Centre for Quantum Technologies (CQT), Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and the National University of Singapore (NUS) contributed to the development of quantum control and computing hardware technologies that subsequently progressed towards commercialisation through AQSolotl.

UTM Vice-Chancellor Prof. Ts. Dr. Mohd Shafry Mohd Rahim said the development demonstrates how sustained university research can create broader economic and societal impact.

"This achievement demonstrates how sustained research, supported by international collaboration and local expertise, can be translated into technology, commercialisation, talent development and new industries for the country."

UTM’s quantum technology expertise is led by Dr. Yap Yung Szen, together with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Haza Nuzly Abdull Hamed and Dr. Koh Meng Hock.

Dr. Yap is also a co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of AQSolotl. His work in quantum technology has received international recognition through his selection for Quantum 100, a global initiative associated with the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology organized by UNESCO.

The establishment of AQSolotl’s R&D&C operations at UTM will also create opportunities for UTM students to undertake industrial internships and gain direct exposure to quantum research, technology development and commercialisation.

AQSolotl held a strategic visit and meeting at UTM on 23 September 2026, bringing together senior representatives from both organisations, including UTM Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni) Prof. Dr. Mohd Shahrizal Sunar, Faculty of Science Dean Prof. Dr. Shafinaz Shahir, Innovation and Commercialisation Centre Director Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Noor Azurati Ahmad @ Salleh, and AQSolotl Chief Executive Officer Patrick Bore.

With UTM strategically located close to Singapore, the development further strengthens the university’s potential to serve as a bridge between Malaysia and Singapore’s research, talent and deep-technology ecosystems.

UTM aims to continue advancing quantum research, talent development and technology commercialisation while contributing to the growth of Malaysia’s quantum technology ecosystem and the wider regional industry.

About Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is a research-intensive public university specialising in engineering, science, and technology, with a growing international profile in sustainability, innovation, and the humanities. Established in 1904 and located in Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur, UTM is dedicated to producing global talents, impactful research, and meaningful partnerships that contribute to a more just and sustainable world.