LANGKAWI, MAY 30 – The Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) became a platform for Malaysia to highlight the growth and development of its Aerospace and Shipbuilding & Ship Repair (SBSR) industries. This prestigious event brought together industry leaders, experts, and innovative companies to discuss the latest advancements and policies in these sectors, which significantly contribute to the nation’s economic growth.
The Aerospace Industry Seminar, officiated by Datuk Wira Arham Abdul Rahman, CEO of MIDA (Malaysian Investment Development Authority), emerged as a collaborative effort between MIDA, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), National Aerospace Industry Coordinating Office (NAICO), and Malaysia Aerospace Industry Association (MAIA). The seminar featured engaging presentations from prominent industry giants, including Spirit AeroSystems Malaysia, UMW Aerospace, Safran Landing Systems, Asia Digital Engineering, Matcor Technology Services Pte Ltd, and SIRIM Berhad.
Datuk Wira Arham Abdul Rahman highlighted the seminar’s significance, stating, “The Aerospace Industry Seminar provided a platform to showcase Malaysia’s remarkable achievements in the aerospace sector. Over the past four decades, Malaysia has attracted investments worth RM16.7 billion through the approval of 131 projects in the aerospace industry. This outstanding track record reflects Malaysia’s success in attracting substantial investments and fostering continuous growth in the aerospace sector.”
During the seminar, Datuk Zulkarnain Mohamed, Senior Director and General Manager for Spirit AeroSystems Malaysia, expressed the company’s commitment to securing and expanding its supply chain in Malaysia. He emphasized the importance of developing a robust ecosystem to ensure sustainable industry recovery and future growth. His statements aligned with the objectives outlined in the Malaysian Aerospace Blueprint 2015-2030 and the Twelfth Malaysia Plan, further demonstrating Spirit AeroSystems Malaysia’s active role in promoting aerospace industry growth within Malaysia.
Dato Abdul Rashid Musa, President of the Aerospace Division at UMW Group, acknowledged the multiple awards and recognition received by UMW Aerospace, including its induction into Rolls-Royce’s High Performing Supplier Group (HPSG) for three consecutive years. He also highlighted UMW Aerospace’s commitment to sustainable practices, such as adopting renewable energy and water conservation measures, which led to the company’s membership in Rolls-Royce’s Sustainability Working Group.
The local players in the aerospace industry, such as UMW Aerospace, SME Aerospace, and CTRM Aero Composite, have established themselves as key contributors to the global supply chain ecosystem, showcasing Malaysia’s industry strength. These leading companies drive innovation and efficiency in manufacturing processes, while supporting companies like Micron Concept Aerostructures Sdn. Bhd., Curge Advance Sdn. Bhd., and T7 Aerotech Sdn. Bhd. enhance the industry’s vibrancy and competitiveness. Together, they form a resilient and interconnected ecosystem that fuels continuous growth.
In parallel, the Ship Building and Ship Repairing (SBSR) industry seminar held at LIMA 2023 showcased Malaysia’s thriving shipbuilding and ship repair sector. Despite challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and uncertainties in the global oil and gas industry, the SBSR industry remained resilient. In 2022, MIDA approved five projects with a combined investment of RM363 million, indicating a substantial increase of 451.7% compared to the previous year. These projects are expected to generate 183 employment opportunities, further solidifying the industry’s growth and its impact on Malaysia’s economy.
Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Sulaiman Mahbob, Chairman of MIDA, recognized the invaluable contributions of various stakeholders, including shipyard owners, workers, technology providers, manufacturers, suppliers, port authorities, and government agencies. He expressed Malaysia’s aspiration to become Asia’s premier SBSR hub by leveraging smart solutions, seamless technologies, and Industry 4.0 advancements in constructing modern and eco-friendly vessels.
The extension of tax incentives and import duty exemptions until 31 December 2027, as announced by the Malaysian government, positions the SBSR industry to attract more investments and enhance its capacity and capabilities. These measures demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting the maritime industry and establishing Malaysia as Asia’s premier SBSR hub. The SBSR industry seminar at LIMA 2023 provided a crucial platform for industry players to stay informed, foster connections, and collectively shape a prosperous future for the industry.
The seminars held at LIMA 2023 highlighted Malaysia’s competitiveness, resilience, and commitment to innovation and sustainability in the aerospace and SBSR sectors. By bringing together key industry players, distinguished speakers, and innovative companies, these events showcased the nation’s remarkable achievements and its role as a significant player in these industries.
