Landmark MoU signed between Singapore Poly, Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers

Singapore Polytechnic (SP) is set to deepen its cross-border industry collaboration after inking a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) at Industrial Transformation ASIA-PACIFIC (ITAP) 2024. This is FMM’s 1st MoU with an educational institution in Singapore.

ITAP is a gathering of global leaders, innovators and industry players to share insights and collaborate on transforming the manufacturing ecosystem.

The partnership aims to drive enterprise transformation, and equip graduates with the competencies necessary to meet the evolving demands of Industry 4.0 in Singapore and Malaysia, primarily by enhancing skillsets in automation, data analytics, and smart manufacturing. 

This strategic alliance also strengthens industry-academia collaboration by aligning curriculum and programme development with industry needs. The partnership will foster industry-ready graduates and advance workforce transformation by promoting joint R&D projects and hosting workshops, training sessions, and seminars.

Georgina Phua, Deputy Principal (Development) of Singapore Polytechnic, said: "The collaboration between Singapore Polytechnic and the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers is a major step forward in our journey toward Industry 4.0. By strengthening ties between industry and academia and promoting enterprise modernisation, we provide our graduates with the cutting-edge skills needed to thrive in the ever-changing manufacturing landscape. 

"This agreement strengthens our workforce and supports the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone initiative, stimulating cross-border trade and regional economic growth."

The President of the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM), Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai stated: “Our collaboration with Singapore Polytechnic is a pivotal step in modernising Malaysia's manufacturing sector, aligning with the goals of Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030. This partnership empowers our members by providing access to advanced skills, innovative practices, and global expertise that will help future-proof their businesses.

"As we embrace Industry 4.0, this initiative will elevate the capabilities of local manufacturers and strengthen our position in global value chains. Furthermore, the agreement reinforces our commitment to regional cooperation, particularly through the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone, which will open new opportunities for cross-border trade and sustainable growth. This mutually beneficial collaboration will contribute to the economic development and competitiveness of both Malaysia and Singapore.”

At ITAP 2024, SP also signed agreements with Singtel, Advanced Manufacturing Training Academy (AMTA), Cragar Industries, International Centre for Industrial Transformation (INCIT) and MonitorERP to drive advanced industry-academia collaborations, foster talent development, and accelerate the adoption of emerging technologies across various sectors.

These agreements align with SP’s mission to catalyse enterprise and workforce transformation. By forging these collaborations, SP is committed to building a robust ecosystem that bridges industry and education while equipping businesses with the tools to thrive in the era of Industry 4.0.

SP and Singtel aim to inspire industry adoption and enhance operational efficiency by leveraging 5G and 5G advanced solutions, as well as other emerging technologies for future smart campuses. They will collaborate on developing smart applications and use cases tailored to these focus areas and promote industry engagement through exhibitions, learning journeys, and other outreach initiatives.

Additionally, both parties will work to stay ahead of emerging networking trends, focusing on security and sustainability to ensure their solutions meet future needs. A key partnership component is talent development — SP and Singtel will review and enhance existing modules and co-create new short courses to equip students, staff, and adult learners with the skills required to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.