Latest news with #17thLangkawiInternationalMaritimeandAerospaceExhibition
The Sun
26-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Pecca Aviation signs five agreements to enhance technology, innovation capabilities
PETALING JAYA: Pecca Group Bhd, through wholly owned subsidiary Pecca Aviation Sdn Bhd, is expanding its capabilities across the aviation value chain in Southeast Asia through collaborations with key industry partners and a higher education institution. The initiatives, aimed at strengthening Pecca Aviation's solution offerings in the aviation cabin interior ecosystem, were executed through five key agreements, comprising memorandums of understanding (MoU) and a general collaboration agreement, at the recently concluded 17th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima 2025). Pecca Aviation and Singapore-based Chemtron Pte Ltd, via an MoU, will establish a Centre of Excellence for Additive Manufacturing, focusing on carbon fibre composite technology and adoption of industrial 3D printing technology. To cultivate a skilled workforce, a critical need in the aviation sector, Pecca Aviation signed an MoU with Politeknik Banting Selangor, an entity under the Ministry of Higher Education, for the supply and development of skilled talent, creating job opportunities in cabin interior specialisations for aviation and non-aviation sectors. Pecca Aviation and ASL Aerospace Sdn Bhd, via a MoU, will collaborate on cabin interior components, and related aerospace products and services for commercial, government, and general aviation aircraft, expanding Pecca Aviation's integrated service capabilities. Pecca Aviation and Galaxy Aerospace Sdn Bhd, via a general collaboration agreement, will engage in project-based aircraft cabin interiors and related services, enabling agile and tailored solutions to meet specific client requirements and enhance responsiveness to market trends. To ensure a sustainable talent pipeline, Pecca Aviation signed an MoU with Dviation Training Centre Sdn Bhd to promote internships, industrial attachments, employment opportunities, joint research and publications, training programme development, skilled human resource development and collaborative projects for cabin interiors and related services. These strategic collaborations aim to expand Pecca Aviation's technological capabilities, accelerate innovation through regional partnerships, and invest in a future-ready talent pipelines to support long-term growth and innovation in aviation interiors and manufacturing. Pecca Group executive director Hugo Teoh Zi Yi said: 'These key partnerships underscore our ambition to be at the forefront of innovative aviation cabin interior solutions, creating a more integrated and innovative Asean aviation ecosystem. By combining our manufacturing excellence with robust talent development and expanded service capabilities, which require strong collaboration between industry, academia, and specialised training centers, this powerful platform will unlock new opportunities, modernise production and enhance the Asean region's aviation value chain and its competitiveness.' Pecca Aviation is a certified European Union Aviation Safety Agency Part 21G Production Organisation Approval holder and a Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia Part 145 organisation. The company specialises in seat upholstery and refurbishment services for commercial and general aviation aircraft. Through these multiparty collaboration, Pecca Aviation is strengthening its integrated offering for the aviation cabin sector across the Asean region.
The Sun
24-05-2025
- General
- The Sun
Safety measures taken during Lima '25 pay off
KUALA LUMPUR: Ground safety planning and execution during the 17th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima '25) went well without any major glitches or fatalities. 'So far, the safety aspect has been well planned and executed. We have not encountered any issues or hiccups and everything is running smoothly, just as planned from the beginning,' Aerospace Secretariat spokesman Royal Malaysian Airforce (RMAF) officer Lt-Kol Mohd Faizal Md Jani told theSun. He said ground safety is managed by the Air Display Safety Cell. 'Our responsibility covers the entire area from the tarmac to the aircraft parking zones, ensuring the safety of ground operations, aircraft displays and all aircraft movements related to the air display. 'A key aspect of our morning routine is monitoring and mitigating bird activity around the airfield. Bird strikes pose a significant risk to aircraft, potentially causing serious damage and disrupting operations. 'Therefore, we conduct proactive measures each morning, such as dispersing birds from the runway and surrounding areas, to minimise this risk and maintain operational integrity. 'We operate a long-range acoustic device to drive away birds from the area, ensuring a safer airspace and reducing the risk of bird strikes.' Mohd Faizal said for aircraft taxiing during the air display, the ground safety team has designated and gazetted routes for both taxi-in and taxi-out operations which all pilots are aware of. 'Additionally, a designated master is responsible for instructing and guiding us on where to park the aircraft after the air show.' Mohd Faizal said crowd control around the aircraft area is handled by Air Defence units within the RMAF, including units like Paskal, an elite special forces unit of the Royal Malaysian Navy. He said their responsibility is to ensure that the public does not encroach into restricted zones near the aircraft. As for pyrotechnics, Mohd Faizal said all necessary safety measures within the airfield are strictly enforced before any activity takes place. He said for areas outside the airfield, such as where the public gathers, crowd control falls under the responsibility of the police, as it is beyond the organisers' direct control. 'From the very beginning of our planning, about six to eight months ahead of Lima '25, we incorporated safety criteria as a core component in preparing for the air display event.' Mohd Faizal said one of the main challenges faced during Lima '25 was managing the civilian crowd outside the airfield, particularly those who did not heed safety advice. He said these individuals often ignored warnings related to potential hazards. 'For instance, during aircraft start-up, the exhaust blast can pose a danger, yet some onlookers refused to move even after being asked repeatedly, only reacting after experiencing the blast firsthand. 'This lack of seriousness towards safety remains a recurring issue.' Mohd Faizal said Lima '25 implemented several new technologies and monitoring tools to enhance safety and control during the air show. 'One example is the use of the Stripe system, which employs cameras to monitor key parameters such as the aircraft's position relative to the foul line and minimum height limits during the display. 'This technology allows officials to track whether an aircraft crosses these safety boundaries and to promptly alert the pilot if necessary. 'Additionally, we have an anti-drone unit in place that can jam or intercept any unauthorised drones operated by civilians near the airspace. 'So far, we have not encountered any drone intrusions and this security measure will remain active for the next two to three days.'
The Sun
24-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Sirim on mission to turn more than 1,200 SMEs into smart manufacturers
LANGKAWI: Sirim Bhd has been entrusted with the critical mandate of driving the adoption of smart manufacturing among more than 1,200 SMEs, aiming to accelerate their transition from Industry 1.5 to Industry 4.0. According to Sirim president and group CEO Datuk Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad, one of the most pressing challenges lies in transforming traditionally labour-intensive industries into modern, automated operations – an ambitious shift that also presents significant opportunities for productivity, efficiency and long-term competitiveness. 'We hope that by 2030, Malaysia can become independent of foreign labour and achieve full automation, leading to improved productivity and higher average incomes across the country. 'However, transitioning SMEs to smart manufacturing involves significant costs. That is why the government, through the Smart Take-Up Programme, is providing subsidies to support the adoption of these technologies and we are offering technological interventions to assist industries along the way,' he told SunBiz at the 17th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima 2025) yesterday. He said to support the transformation of local SMEs into smart manufacturing, the government is providing funding assistance, while Sirim collaborates with agencies such as MIDF, under the supervision of Bank Negara Malaysia, to ensure these businesses can access financing at the lowest possible interest rates. 'And we are also collaborating with several multinational companies that are willing to share their automation systems with Malaysia, enabling a smoother transition from our current state to our desired future. Our primary focus is on the manufacturing sector, particularly in electrical and electronics, even though many interested companies are in the food and beverage space. 'This focus is crucial to ensure that Malaysia maintains its position as one of the world's leading semiconductor producers,' Ahmad Sabirin said. To strengthen Malaysia's manufacturing ecosystem, he added, there is a need to cultivate a second and third tier of SMEs that can effectively support multinational corporations operating in the country. While financial assistance remains important, industry stakeholders have expressed that what they value most is clear insight into the future direction of global technology – highlighting the need for stronger guidance, foresight, and strategic alignment from the government to facilitate their transition into advanced manufacturing, Ahmad Sabirin noted. 'To ensure local industries are not left behind, Sirim is working closely with agencies like Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation and Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry to build a cohesive ecosystem that supports the global export of high-value products. 'By aligning efforts, the goal is to position Malaysia as a competitive exporter in high-growth, high-value sectors. With overseas operations already under way, Sirim aims to strengthen its leadership role both nationally and across Asean over the next three to five years. 'We are planning to establish more offices globally, and through these efforts, our goal is not only to elevate Sirim's international presence but also to help bring Malaysian SMEs onto the global stage. That, I believe, is the most important objective,' Ahmad Sabirin said.
The Star
23-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Powering progress through industrial innovation
'We will be actively promoting the AS9100 certification, which is targeted at improving the management systems of all aerospace and maritime players — especially those in the defence industry. By proposing this certification, we want our industries to become internationally competitive,' said Ahmad Sabirin. —Photos: KAMARUL ARIFFIN/The Star SIRIM Bhd is charting a new course at the 17th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA 2025), with a presence set to reflect strategic focus and meaningful national impact. LIMA 2025, held biennially in Langkawi, is taking place at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre and Resorts World Langkawi and is open to the public today and tomorrow (May 23-24). Aligned with the exhibition's theme, 'Innovate Today, Thrive Tomorrow,' SIRIM steps forward not merely as an exhibitor, but as a vital enabler of Malaysia's industrial transformation and a committed partner in advancing the nation's aerospace and maritime sectors. Operational excellence SIRIM's participation this year signals a strategic shift. While the organisation's core strengths in certification, research and development (R&D), training and calibration remain central, its approach is now more focused and outcome-driven. 'This year, we have come up with different propositions. We will be actively promoting the AS9100 certification, which is targeted at improving the management systems of all aerospace and maritime players — especially those in the defence industry. By proposing this certification, we want our industries to become internationally competitive,' said SIRIM Bhd president and group chief executive officer Datuk Indera Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad in an interview. He added, 'With this certification, companies can export their products and services globally, as they will be complying with international standards. Once certified, their workflows become highly standardised.' Through this initiative, SIRIM aims to help more Malaysian companies align with global benchmarks, boost productivity, increase profit margins and ultimately enhance their competitiveness on the international stage. Strategic engagement LIMA 2025 marks SIRIM's third participation in the exhibition. Over the years, SIRIM has evolved from a basic exhibitor to a vital strategic partner for national industrial development. This year, SIRIM returns with a more curated, focused and impactful showcase. 'From past experiences we've gathered, LIMA is a broad-based activity and SIRIM's offerings are extensive as well. If we are not focused, customers will be clueless and very confused about our offerings. That's why this year, we're targeting very specific industry needs — statutory requirements, certification demands and practical R&D incentives that deliver real value. 'We want to ensure that our offerings are customised to the needs of the industries,' he said. SIRIM's innovation works on display at its gallery in the headquarters in Shah Alam. Collaborative efforts SIRIM's contribution to Malaysia's aerospace industry extends far beyond exhibitions. It plays an instrumental role in equipping the country's more than 240 aerospace players with certification, calibration, training and R&D support. 'All of them, directly or indirectly, have worked with SIRIM,' said Ahmad Sabirin. 'If not through certification, we have also calibrated most of the equipment used in the defence industry. In the aerospace industry, this is highly important — we ensure the equipment is properly calibrated to guarantee the safety and airworthiness of the products. 'We have emphasised that calibration cannot be compromised, whether for aircraft or ships.' The feedback from these collaborations has been overwhelmingly positive. Many industry players have reported improvements in productivity and revenue, backed by international-grade systems introduced with SIRIM's support. Innovation with purpose Innovation at SIRIM is not about reinventing the wheel — it's about enhancing existing technologies to suit Malaysian conditions and needs. 'If a product is made by other countries, we don't want to simply replicate it in Malaysia. Instead, we want to improve it and adapt it to suit the Malaysian environment,' he said. He shared his insights on SIRIM's innovative work with its partners in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). 'SAF will also contribute to net-zero carbon targets because we are using biofuel as the new jet engine fuel.' He noted that SIRIM is actively involved in SAF-related research due to the availability of raw materials in the country and that it is part of their continuous engagement to positively impact local industries. The second area is SIRIM's development of autonomous guidance systems for drones. 'If we are buying drones, I think most of the companies are getting them from China. But we're stepping in to ensure that they are autonomously guided — and this guidance system is developed by SIRIM to benefit the industries." He added that the guidance system has versatile future applications. 'It can be used in guided missiles, drone systems, aircraft, or even search and rescue facilities.' He explained that SIRIM is now exploring how to assist industries in deploying more effective search and rescue systems for both aviation and maritime sectors. 'We understand that when an automated, autonomous GPS system is enabled, it can help pinpoint the crash location of victims more accurately. Search and rescue operations take time — and the longer it takes, the lower the chances of survival. So, if we can reduce the time needed to locate victims, their chances of survival will be much higher.' SIRIM's additive manufacturing system produces engineering-grade thermoplastic prototypes and functional parts with optimal mechanical properties. Among the items shown is a 3D-printed hand brace, used to support recovery from a broken arm. Human-centred technologies SIRIM's presence at LIMA 2025 will also highlight a human-centred approach. Beyond machines and hardware, the organisation is showcasing its capabilities in medical devices and prosthetics — from 3D-printed limbs for amputees to Malaysian-made titanium skulls for cranial reconstruction surgeries. 'This is about helping Malaysians return to work and live a normal life. It also extends to military personnel who may be injured during peacekeeping missions,' he said. To date, over 120 prosthetic and cranial reconstruction cases have been supported by SIRIM through close collaboration with hospitals and industry partners. Additionally, SIRIM is also showcasing its in-house capabilities in areas such as the testing and certification of military uniforms, including boots and hats — all of which comply with international standards. Trusted standards SIRIM QAS International, the certification body of SIRIM, remains a pillar of trust and credibility in the region. With over 15,000 certifications issued, its impact spans aerospace, manufacturing, and other critical sectors. 'These certifications are not just for compliance — they build traceability, accountability and system integrity,' he said. SIRIM is also expanding its certification footprint beyond Europe to North America to ensure Malaysian industries can meet global trade demands seamlessly. Agile talent As part of its future-ready strategy, SIRIM Academy is accelerating talent development by offering both high-level quality training and practical Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes. These include aerospace certification training, welding, soft skills and even entrepreneurship programmes tailored for retiring military personnel. 'SIRIM Academy is also integrating AI into its training ecosystem,' said Ahmad Sabirin 'We want to ensure trainees are equipped with up-to-date knowledge and are ready to participate in a smart, future-driven workforce. Our goal is not to compete with industries, but to facilitate and support them.' The Academy also champions diversity, equality and inclusivity — promoting representation across Malaysia's multicultural population while supporting gig-based employment models designed for the younger, more flexible workforce. 'We believe in the concept of 1Malaysia, where every Malaysian contributes to everything we do. We're proud to have around 10,000 alumni and a workforce of over 2,000.' 'We concentrate on what keeps the industry awake at night and how we can solve those problems to help make them more profitable,' said Ahmad Sabirin. Targeted research With limited national funding for R&D, SIRIM's Industrial Research (IR) remains mission-focused — dedicated to solving real, industry-centric challenges. 'Our focus is not on academic research — we leave that to the universities,' said Ahmad Sabirin. 'We concentrate on what keeps the industry awake at night and how we can solve those problems to help make them more profitable.' Looking ahead, SIRIM IR is focusing on key areas such as hydrogen fuel ecosystems, electric vehicles (EVs) and the integration of AI and quantum computing into industrial applications. Bespoke solutions SIRIM's footprint in the small and medium enterprises (SME) space is equally transformative. The organisation has supported over 1,200 SMEs in adopting Industry 4.0 technologies — from AI and automation to customised smart manufacturing solutions. 'Malaysia is still somewhere between IR 1.5 and 2.0,' he noted. 'Many companies are still reliant on cheap labour. But with our interventions, we're helping them shift toward automation and higher profitability. Machines can work 24/7 without overtime.' What sets SIRIM apart is its bespoke approach — each smart solution is custom-designed to meet the unique needs of a business, rather than offering one-size-fits-all systems. 'Our approach is to creatively design the specific automation solutions that are unique to each industry. What we do here at SIRIM is not mass manufacturing of smart solutions; instead, we focus on bespoke manufacturing tailored to the unique needs of every industry.' Innovation enabler With over 20,000 industries and 20,000 human capital engagements impacted annually, SIRIM is positioning itself as Malaysia's leading innovation enabler. 'I am proud that SIRIM is now becoming the enabler of technologies across industries,' said Ahmad Sabirin. 'Industries are looking to us for support. Our engagement is now much more intense and we are now closer to the industry players than we've ever been.' As a closing message to all LIMA 2025 visitors and industry stakeholders, Ahmad Sabirin offered a compelling invitation: 'Come to LIMA — and remember this: we are ready to be your partner in progress. If you're aiming to go global, let SIRIM walk alongside you. We are committed, collaborative and industry-friendly.' In reference to SIRIM's trusted recognition, he added with conviction: 'Ada SIRIM, Baru Beli (Only Buy with SIRIM's mark of quality).' To learn more about SIRIM, its services and initiatives, visit
The Sun
22-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Thales hails Malaysia's defence procurement ecosystem
LANGKAWI: Malaysia's defence procurement landscape has evolved considerably in recent years, reflecting a shift towards more mature and sophisticated practices. As a global player in advanced technologies for defence, aerospace, naval and ground capabilities, and cybersecurity, Thales Group welcomes this shift, saying the country's maturing procurement processes creates opportunities for global firms such as Thales Group to offer modern, long-lasting solutions. Thales Asia vice-president Nicolas Bouverot said there is growing demand in Malaysia for cutting-edge technology and advanced solutions. 'This aligns well with Thales' strengths as a technology leader, providing value for money, high technology, and sophisticated solutions. 'Malaysia's defence ecosystem is one of the most mature in Southeast Asia. Over the years, Malaysia has paid close attention to developing its defence ecosystem, laying the groundwork for a robust and resilient industry. This is the result of consistent, long-term investment in building and strengthening local capabilities,' Bouverot told SunBiz at the ongoing 17th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima 2025). He said one of the standout features of Malaysia's procurement ecosystem is the Industrial Collaboration Programme – commonly known as the 'offset policy' – which is integrated into the procurement of defence systems. 'Importantly, this policy is not limited to defence alone but extends to various other types of systems procured in Malaysia. It gives an incentive for localising activities, increasing Malaysia's sovereignty over key assets while ensuring clear local benefits for Malaysia,' Bouverot said. Yesterday, Thales was awarded a contract to supply two additional Ground Master 400 Alpha (GM400α) radars for the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), following the procurement of the first radar in 2023. This move is a strategic partnership to help Malaysia achieve air sovereignty. The ceremony was held on the third day of Lima 2025 in the presence of Thales Malaysia country director Francois-Xavier Boutes and Malaysian Ministry of Defence secretary-general Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali, and witnessed by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. The award of two additional radars highlights the RMAF's continued trust in Thales' GM400α technology, known for its 515km range, reliability and rapid threat detection. In addition to the radar procurement, Thales is enhancing Malaysia's tactical communications for land forces and reinforcing its radio communications capabilities. To this end, Thales signed a memorandum of understanding with Malaysia's Advanced Defence Systems Sdn Bhd (ADS), to collaborate on radio projects. The pact, signed by ADS chairman Brig Gen (R) Datuk Abdul Hadi Abdul Razak and Bouverot, will see both parties working on the latest digital technologies for handheld radios and other tactical communications. . Further, Thales witnessed the signing of a letter of agreement with Malaysian partner Novatis Resources Sdn Bhd to deliver a Reality-H AW139 Full Flight Simulator to be used for pilot training with the Royal Malaysian Police, its first engagement with the force. Pilots of the Police Air Wing Training Academy and other government agencies, including the fire brigade and coast guard, can benefit from realistic and immersive training, customised to the Malaysian environment and terrain. Bouverot said the Malaysian government's key requirement is that any procurement includes technology transfer – a policy that Thales fully welcomes. 'We saw during the Covid-19 pandemic how challenging it can be for companies based far away to support their customers, especially when borders are closed, as they were then. But even before that, we had already realised that having a local presence and in-country capabilities is in the best interest of both us and our customers. 'Of course, it might not always be practical for smaller projects. However, having local capabilities becomes essential for substantial or mission-critical systems. 'In some cases, we establish our capabilities. In Malaysia, for instance, we operate four support service centres, including one in Kota Kinabalu dedicated to underwater technologies to support submarine operations. 'We have a centre in Lumut that supports surface ships, one in Pekan focused on vehicle systems, and another in Kuala Lumpur dedicated to communications. However, in other cases, we work closely with local partners. We provide training, transfer technology, and build their capabilities so they can carry out the work themselves,' Bouverot said. Asked how Thales supports Malaysia's ambition to take on a more proactive regional role in multilateral joint operations under the Asean framework, Nicolas said, 'The products we supply to Malaysia are fully interoperable with systems used by other countries. In fact, many of our solutions are also deployed by Nato, where many interoperability exercises are conducted. So from a technological standpoint, the interoperability and the multi-country capabilities are there. 'Ultimately, however, it's up to Malaysia to decide which partners it wants to work with and engage in joint operations, and at that strategic level, our role is more limited.' Bouverot said Malaysia is one of Thales' key Asian markets, with a team of over 100 people based in the country. While the primary focus is serving the Malaysian market, several team members also hold regional roles. Thales aims to leverage Malaysia's capabilities further to support local and regional operations. It is actively exploring ways to expand its presence and plans to increase investments. This includes the upcoming establishment of a centre of excellence for radars in collaboration with Weststar Group.
