93 manufacturers complete smart factory shift towards 2030 target
Another 161 manufacturers are expected to complete their transformation by December 2026, according to Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Sim Tze Tzin.
Malaysia has converted 93 manufacturers into smart factories, leaving it far short of its goal of 3,000 by 2030, Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Sim Tze Tzin said in George Town on Oct 2.
Speaking to reporters following the launch of the Malaysia Smart Manufacturing Awards (MSMA) 2027, Sim said another 161 manufacturers were undergoing the transition. They were expected to complete it by December 2026.
Sim said government assistance was focused on manufacturers without the financial resources or capabilities needed to introduce smart manufacturing technologies. While some companies could undertake the changes independently, others needed support, he said.
The target falls under Mission-Based Project 2.1 of the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, which seeks to advance technology adoption and digitalisation in manufacturing.
Sim said MSMA 2027 would recognise manufacturers that had adopted smart manufacturing through changes to processes or automation. He hoped the awards would encourage wider participation, and urged manufacturers in sectors including semiconductors, machining, furniture and automotive to adopt automation.
