5G key to assisting manufacturers unlock world of possibilities with AI

GEORGE TOWN: The manufacturing sector stands at the precipice of a new era, one that is defined by unprecedented

innovation and efficiency, complemented by artificial intelligence (AI).

By integrating AI, manufacturers can unlock a world of possibilities, such as predictive maintenance and autonomous production lines. However, for this to happen, there must be good and reliable 5G infrastructure.

Minister of Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo highlighted that Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) has successfully built the 5G infrastructure backbone across Malaysia with 80.5% coverage of populated areas (COPA) as at

end March 2024. There are over 11.2 million 5G subscribers in the country

as at end-February 2024.

“DNB and mobile operators in Malaysia have overseen the deployment of several 5G private networks, including in the oil and gas sector. Among the early adopters of such technology include the Petronas Regasification Terminal in Sungai Udang, Melaka, Malaysian Refining Company Sdn Bhd platform in Melaka, the Malaysia Liquefied Natural Gas complex in Bintulu, Sarawak and the Kerteh Integrated Petrochemical Complex in Terengganu,” Gobind said.

“Proof-of-concept private networks are deployed in Transocean logistic facilities in Kuala Lumpur, and Clarion manufacturing facilities in Penang since September 2023. The 5G private network demonstrates secure and reliable, ultra-fast and low-latency connectivity that enable disruptive and cutting-edge applications. These 5G capabilities will stand to benefit the manufacturing sector.

“Supply chain optimisation is equally important, where the implementation of digital solutions can improve inventory management, logistics, and demand forecasting,” he said.

Gobind said this in his speech at the ‘Connected Industries Day:

Transforming Manufacturing with 5G and AI’ workshop organised by DNBat Eastin Hotel Penang this afternoon.

Present at the event were the Ministry of Digital Deputy Secretary General (Strategic Policy) Ma Sivanesan; DNB Chief Strategy Officer Datuk Ahmad Zaki Zahid; Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM)

President Tan Sri Dato’ Soh Thian Lai; FMM Penang Branch Chairman Dato’ Seri Lee Teong Li; Digital Penang Chief Executive Officer Ts. Ng Kwang Ming, and Invest Penang Head of Communication & Business

Intelligence, Ms Elaine Cheah.

Gobind added that US-based Grand View Research estimated that 50% of manufacturers will implement Industrial Internet of Things (IoT) by 2025, and 5G will play a crucial role in this development.

He added Malaysia’s manufacturing sector must quickly adopt 5G and cutting-edge technologies, such as industrial robots and automation in the operations, to remain competitive and relevant.

“The Government aims to transform 3,000 factories into smart factories by 2030 under the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, nurturing high-value and innovation-driven sectors such as Electrical & Electronics (especially integrated circuit design and wafer fabrication activities), Specialty Chemicals, Aerospace, Pharmaceutical, and Medical Devices. “To ensure this transformation takes place, the Government is committed to enhance the digital ecosystem, including more robust, widespread and

quality connectivity, financing, talent development, investor landscape, cybersecurity and governance framework, creating an environment that supports digital growth. These enablers are key to Malaysia realising its digital vision,” he added.

Under the NIMP 2030, announced in September last year, the Government will place significant emphasis on smart manufacturing, integrating physical and digital processes to optimise operations and enhance efficiency.

Projections under the NIMP 2030 anticipate significant growth in Malaysia’s manufacturing sector, with manufacturing GDP expected to surge by 61% from the 2022 baseline of RM364.9 billion, to RM587.5

billion in 2030.

Ministry of Digital

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