Conference themes and schedule

AI-First Nation: Transforming Industries Through AI

Uncover Singapore's transformative path as an AI-first nation. Dive into pioneering national AI initiatives and real-world applications, spotlighting manufacturing. Designed for industry leaders, C-suites, and policymakers, this session delivers practical insights to inspire the adoption of Singapore's innovative AI programs in ecosystems worldwide.

James Kok

Head, AIAP-X and Assistant Head, Industry Development, AI Innovation | AI Singapore

New Perspectives for the Future of Manufacturing: Outlook 2030

David will share key insights from the 2024 World Manufacturing Report that examines the political, economic, social, technological, legal and environmental trends shaping global manufacturing with an outlook towards 2030. He discusses essential learnings and recommendations to guide the industry through the decade ahead.

Prof Dr David Romero

Scientific Vice-Chairman, World Manufacturing Foundation, and Professor of Advanced Manufacturing, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Mexico

Global Trends in Intelligent Manufacturing: An Open Innovation Strategy towards Synergizing the Technologies of the Future

This session explores the evolving landscape of intelligent manufacturing, extending insights from the World Manufacturing Report and Singapore's AI-First Nation development. It examines global trends shaping the industry, including technological advancements, sustainability, and green manufacturing, focusing on Malaysia's strategic positioning. Furthermore, the discussion highlights how regional countries leverage innovation, policies, and emerging technologies to enhance competitiveness in global value chains. The session emphasizes open innovation as a pathway to synergize future technologies and foster growth in intelligent manufacturing worldwide.

Dr Chua Wen-Shyan

Head of Malaysian Smart Factory 4.0, Selangor Human Resource Development Centre (SHRDC)

Panel Discussion: Future-Proofing Manufacturing: Navigating Global Challenges and Opportunities

This panel discussion addresses the critical strategies manufacturers need to adopt to remain resilient in an era of unprecedented change. Industry leaders will explore how to tackle global challenges such as supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, and evolving consumer demands, while leveraging opportunities presented by technological advancements, green manufacturing practices, and shifting trade policies. The discussion will provide actionable insights on building agile, sustainable, and innovation-driven manufacturing ecosystems that are primed for long-term success in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Moderator: Prof Dr David Romero

*Speaker: Dr Chua Wen-Shyan, Mohamed Taher Mouni, Kelvin Chong

Integrating Digital Twins with Collaborative Robotic to Optimize Manufacturing Digitalisation

This session explores the powerful synergy between digital twins and collaborative robotics, showcasing how their integration is revolutionizing manufacturing digitalisation. Discover the advanced capabilities enabled by collaborative robotics within digital twin environments, gaining insights into the benefits of this integration. The discussion will also address key challenges faced during implementation, along with practical solutions to overcome them. Real-world success stories will also be shared to highlight the transformative impact of these technologies.

Collaborative Robots (Cobots) VS Humanoid Robot: Which One is the Best-fit for Manufacturers?

Dominic will dive into the comparison between cobots and humanoid robots to help manufacturers determine the best fit for their operations. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the differences between these two robotic solutions, and real-world cases will be shared to showcase the applications and benefits of cobots and humanoid robots in various manufacturing scenarios. The discussion will also provide practical insights on how manufacturers can prepare their facilities, workforce, and processes for the successful implementation of either cobots or humanoid robots, empowering them to make informed decisions for their future-focused strategies.

Dr Ing Dominic Gorecky

Head of Swiss Smart Factory & Swiss Health Tech Center, Partner, Executive Board Member, Switzerland, Innovation Park Biel/Bienne AG

Unblocking Manufacturing Bottlenecks: Automating the Critical Processes Outside ERPs

Across Asia's fast-evolving manufacturing landscape, companies are investing in powerful ERP systems like SAP, Odoo, and NetSuite. Yet many still face familiar roadblocks—manual approvals, scattered communications, and delays in execution. In this session, we’ll explore how industry leaders are closing this gap through workflow automation. The focus is not on replacing ERP, but on wrapping automation around it—unlocking speed, traceability, and accountability across procurement, production, logistics, and supplier management. Real examples of how companies are integrating workflow automation into their existing ERP systems—without disrupting operations will also be shared.

Jinendra Jain

Senior Director - Product & Solutions, Moxo

Global Challenges in Implementing Sustainable Digitalisation Projects

This session examines the complexities of implementing sustainable digitalisation projects on a global scale. Through actual projects handled by Mouni, he will share the diverse challenges faced during digitalisation processes, highlighting how cultural differences can either accelerate or decelerate these processes, offering valuable lessons on navigating cross-cultural dynamics effectively. Attendees will also receive practical tips on balancing workforce priorities, addressing resistance to change, and educating employees to embrace digitalization in manufacturing, ensuring a smoother and more sustainable transition.

Mohamed Taher Mouni

Founder, Beyond 4.0, and Founding Expert, Alliance for I4.0 and Smart Manufacturing in Africa (AISMA)

The Integration of Collaborative Robots (Cobots) in Manufacturing Plants: Enhancing Productivity, Safety, and Innovation

This success story highlights the transformative journey of UMW plants in integrating collaborative robots (cobots) into their manufacturing processes. He will share how cobots have been strategically applied to streamline operations, enhance workforce safety, achieve significant productivity gains and drive innovation across supply chains. He will also explore workforce preparation strategies, addressing common challenges and obstacles encountered during the implementation of cobots. Finally, the "rent-to-own" concept will be discussed as an innovative approach to overcoming financial barriers, making cobot adoption accessible to a wider range of manufacturers.

*Leonard Ng

Business Development Manager, UMW

Panel Discussion: Collaborative Approaches to Sustainable Manufacturing

This panel discussion will explore the vital partnerships between industry, government, and academia in driving sustainable manufacturing. Experts from each sector will share their insights on how they can effectively collaborate to tackle environmental challenges, foster innovation, and align efforts toward shared sustainability goals. By highlighting best practices and strategies for impactful partnerships, the discussion aims to inspire actionable solutions and enhance the collaboration for a more sustainable manufacturing future.

Moderator: Dr Ing Dominic Gorecky,

*Speaker: Ravenna Chen, Leonard Ng

Shaping Tomorrow: The Power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Driving Innovation and Sustainable Manufacturing

Explore the cutting-edge advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and their role in driving innovation and sustainability. This session will showcase the groundbreaking development led by YTL AI Lab and its implications for AI-driven solutions. Discover how these innovations are shaping smarter, more sustainable practices across industries, including manufacturing, by enabling localized intelligence, optimizing processes, and fostering eco-conscious advancements.

Foong Chee Mun

Chief Executive Officer, YTL AI Labs

The Shifting Landscape of AI for Manufacturing: Getting Ready for the Quantum Leap

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing manufacturing with cutting-edge innovations, including Generative AI, driving unparalleled efficiency, creativity, and adaptability. This session will cover the advances and functionalities of AI in manufacturing, and move into the emerging world of AI backed with the power of Quantum Computers. Attendees will gain insights into harnessing AI’s advancements today and preparing for the quantum leap that promises to supercharge computational capabilities and redefine problem-solving in the industry. Discover how these emerging technologies are reshaping the manufacturing landscape, unlocking opportunities, and setting the stage for a future of limitless possibilities.

Sakthivel Narayanasamy

Chairman, Quantum Computing (M) Sdn Bhd

Empowering AI in Semiconductor Manufacturing Through Effective Data Practices

In this session, we will explore the foundational role of data governance and data management in driving AI initiatives within semiconductor manufacturing. Effective data governance ensures that organisations maintain high data quality, compliance, and security, which are crucial for successful AI applications like predictive maintenance and process optimization. Additionally, a robust data management system enables seamless data integration and analysis. Ultimately, data governance and data management form the backbone of a successful AI strategy in semiconductor manufacturing, empowering organizations to harness the full potential of their data assets for greater operational efficiency.

*Michael Thavarajah

Principal Engineer, Intel Corporation

Application of Machine Learning in Improving Manufacturing Outcomes

In this session, Kelvin will share the transformative role of machine learning in enhancing manufacturing efficiency, productivity, and innovation. Discover how machine learning algorithms are being applied to optimize production lines, predict equipment failures through predictive maintenance, and enhance quality control with advanced data analytics. This discussion will highlight the benefits of real-time decision-making, cost reduction, and resource optimisation powered by machine learning technologies.

*Kelvin Chong

Country Manager, Schaeffler Malaysia

Panel Discussion: Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a Catalyst for Innovation and Workforce Enhancement in Manufacturing

This panel discussion examines how AI is shaping workforce management in manufacturing, bringing both challenges and opportunities. Industry experts will discuss the impact of AI on workforce dynamics, exploring its role in enhancing productivity and innovation. The conversation will also tackle the dual nature of AI as both a catalyst for transformation and a potential hindrance, shedding light on strategies to navigate these complexities and harness AI effectively for workforce and operational success.

Moderator: Prof Dr David Romero

*Speaker: Foong Chee Mun, Sakthivel Narayanasamy, Sam Majid

Predictive Maintenance with AI: Reducing Downtime and Maximizing Efficiency

This session will explore how artificial intelligence transforms maintenance practices through predictive analysis, enabling businesses to anticipate issues before they arise. With Inspur Group sharing their expertise, attendees will gain insights into cutting-edge AI technologies that reduce operational downtime, enhance machine reliability, and optimize resource efficiency. Real-world applications will highlight how predictive maintenance is revolutionizing industries by minimising disruptions and driving productivity.

Human-Machine Collaboration: Harmonizing Hybrid Workforces for Effective Coexistence

This session delves into the evolving dynamics of human-machine collaboration, focusing on strategies to harmonize robots and humans for efficient and effective teamwork. Attendees will explore practical approaches to fostering coexistence between human and robotic capabilities, supported by real-world examples from various industries. By examining success stories and innovative practices, this session aims to provide actionable insights into building synergistic hybrid workforces that leverage the strengths of both humans and machines.

Edwin Yap

CEO, Jemco Retail Fixtures

Strategic Leadership and Workforce Evolution: Navigating Change Management in the Digital Era

The rise of digital transformation is reshaping industries, and organizations must adapt swiftly to remain competitive. This session will delve into the crucial role of leadership and change management in driving successful digital transformation. It will explore strategies for leaders to adopt an agile mindset, align organizational objectives with technological advancements, and foster a culture of continuous learning. Additionally, the discussion will highlight actionable insights to help management prepare their workforce for future challenges, including upskilling and reskilling initiatives, building digital competencies, and addressing resistance to change. Attendees will gain practical tools to lead their teams through transformation with resilience and vision.

Panel Discussion: The Role of Leadership in Talent Development

Leadership plays a critical role in shaping talent development strategies, especially in today's complex global landscape. This panel discussion will delve into the challenges faced by management across various regions, exploring how cultural and economic factors influence their approach to nurturing talent. It will also examine the unique barriers faced by traditional manufacturers and second-generation players in adapting to workforce expectations and fostering innovation. By redefining leadership for the future, the session aims to provide actionable insights and strategies for creating inclusive, growth-oriented environments.

Moderator: Sook Ling Teh

*Speaker: Oscar Low, Representative from NXP, and Monash University