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Industrial Revolution 4.0: Official Bulletin 4 EDITION - KDN: PQ1780/J/187
Industrial Revolution 4.0: Official Bulletin 4 EDITION - KDN: PQ1780/J/187
INDUSTRIAL
REVOLUTION 4.0
04
JUL-SEPT
2017
1
EDITOR’S ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
A P P R E C I AT I O N
NOTES
BOARD MEMBERS
Datin Paduka EDITORIAL ADVISER
Ts. Dr. Siti Hamisah Tapsir Datin Paduka Ts. Dr. Siti Hamisah Tapsir
(Head of Publication Committee & MBOT
Editorial Adviser / Board Members Board Member)
Greetings!
PUBLICATION COMMITTEES
Elena Mazlinda Mazlan
How time flies. We are now in our (Chief Editor)
third quarter of the edition. Catching In an exclusive section, we present Prof. Datin Dr. Zuraidah Binti Mohd. Zain
(Senior Editor)
up with the latest trends surrounding a special column by the Honourable
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suraya Abdul Rashid
Malaysia, we present to you the Minister of Science, Technology and (Editor)
Fourth Industrial Revolution (I4.0) Innovation (MOSTI), YB Datuk Seri Muhammad Zainal Abidin Zainun
as our theme in this edition. I4.0 Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau, (Coordinator)
has been the centre of discussions who shares his experiences and
COLUMNISTS
everywhere in the world, fore sighting thoughts attending the 7th Global Dr. Naimah Binti Md Khalil
13 15 what technology would be like in the Science and Innovation Advisory Dr. Mohamad Asmidzam Ahamat
14 16 17 future. It showcases the Internet of Council Meeting (GSIAC) held in New Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammad Fahmi Miskon
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kushsairy Abdul Kadir
Things (IoT), robotics industry, cyber Delhi. Another highlight is the Mega
security, driverless cars and many Science 3.0 that gives the big picture GUEST COLUMNISTS
more. It touches upon how our talent of the future that Malaysia desires, YB Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius
pools, mainly our technologists, are and links it to national imperatives Tangau
Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM)
impacted. and key economic sectors.
Prof. Datuk Dr. Ts. Shahrin Sahib
9 Fazidah Ithnin
10 Here at TECHIES, we constantly We hope this bulletin will serve as
7
Khairul Razik Mohd Isa
12 look ahead on future issues. We also a platform to obtain and deliver Dr. Pasupuleti Visweswara Rao
1 analyse current situations. We are perspectives and insights to the
DESIGNER
glad that we have the opportunity community as a whole. We welcome Media Perintis Sdn Bhd
11 to reach the community in the form your views, feedback and article
8 of this bulletin. This edition gives contributions. PUBLISHER
Malaysia Board of Technologists (MBOT)
a general overview of I4.0 and how
TECHies is an official publication of
technologies and technologists are Happy Reading! MBOT.
affected. The bulletin is published quarterly and
distributed to our members, government
FIND INSIDE
2 agencies, private sectors and the public at
large.
6 Page
3 4 5
PHOTO CREDITS
MBOT also wishes to extend its heartfelt
Presidentʼs Notes .................................. 4 appreciation to the following institutions and
organisations for their contribution of photos
About MBOT .............................. 5 used in this publication:
Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM)
Time to let Robots Take Care of Your Fields ................... 6 - 7 Mustafa Kamil Mokhtar, MOSTI
Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP)
President Future of Malaysia Technical University Network Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia
(MTUN) in the light of the 4th Industrial (UTHM)
Tan Sri Dato’ Academician (Dr.) Ts. Ahmad Zaidee Laidin FASc Revolution .................. 8 - 9 Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka
(UTeM)
Catalysing Key Economic Sectors through Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP)
Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) .................. 10 - 17
2 Ts. Choo Kok Beng Ts. Tang Heap Seng 10
Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL)
PRESIDENT’s The Parliament of Malaysia has enacted the Technologists and Technicians Act 2015 (Act 768), an
act to provide for the establishment of Malaysia Board of Technologists (MBOT), in line with other
MBOT is responsible for the registration of graduate technologists and qualified technicians as
well as to recognise professional technologists and certified technicians.
MBOT promotes education and professional training in related technology and technical fields.
Tan Sri Dato’ Academician MBOT recognises technological careers and empowering technical and vocational education and
(Dr.) Ts. Ahmad Zaidee Laidin FASc training (TVET).
MBOT will strive to be a signatory to international accords in the field of technology and technical
Technologists and technicians are the pillars Seeing this, MBOT has to move faster so to ensure the technologists and technicians produced in the country meet the international
of strength who will determine the success that we can equip our graduates in line with standards and ability to compete globally.
of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry the country’s aspirations. If things are not
4.0). We should aim to be among the top tackled accordingly and quickly, we would
nations in the world with regard to domestic not be where we want to be in the future. We
economy, prosperity and innovation. need to be well prepared.
01
In Industry 4.0 (I4.0), the value of technology MBOT plays an important role to support VISION WHO SHOULD
is highly emphasised. Forward-looking
principles such as the Internet of Things
the government’s national STEM agenda.
As it is, students taking STEM at secondary
To be a world class professional body REGISTER ?
for technologists and technicians
(IoT), 3D printing, autonomous vehicle, level hovers around 27%. However, if TVET is
biotechnology and nanotechnology taken into account, the number balloons up
are embedded within I4.0. Emerging to 47%, which is encouraging. Clearly, more PROFESSIONAL T
technologies have changed the nature of good quality STEM graduates are needed to TECHNOLOGIST
jobs in Malaysia. Sufficient skilled human drive the country forward. 02 Graduate Technologist with
MISSION practical experience as stipulated
power to operate rising technologies is
by the Board
the key in the continuous development of Many features must be attended to in To elevate the standing, visibility and
a country like ours. There is a host of new order for MBOT to soar high in the wake of recognition of technologists and GRADUATE
types of jobs requiring mastering of new Industry 4.0. I look forward to the support technicians TECHNOLOGIST
tasks. Nevertheless, it has to be stated that and cooperation from all to further develop Holds a bachelor’s degree
technologies do not replace technologists. MBOT and to execute what has been recognised by the Board
Instead, they empower them to do their charted. I appreciate the continuous support
jobs. Technologists use human skills and from everyone to work with MBOT so that 03
characteristics that machines cannot it can leave a big impact to the nation as a OBJECTIVES CERTIFIED
replicate such as intelligence, creativity and whole. TECHNICIAN
experience. This is the kind of mind-set we To elevate the standing and Qualified Technician with
need to adopt. recognition of technologists and practical experience as stipulated
technicians by the Board
4 5
Time to Let Robots Take
Care of Your Fields
By Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak chairing the 7th Global Science and
Innovation Advisory Council (GSIAC) meeting in New Delhi.
6 7
FUTURE OF MALAYSIA TECHNICAL As such, the main challenge for MTUN universities now
is to lay a strategy that allows them to be competitive
students’ employability and augment skills and character.
8 9
Catalysing Key Economic Sectors
through Science, Technology and
Innovation (STI)
By Academy of Sciences Malaysia
The advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4th IR) is The Mega Science 3.0 study carried out from 2015
a tipping point in science, technology and innovation that until 2016 looked at five industries namely Furniture,
is unveiling unprecedented advances. It is expected to Automotive, Creative, Tourism, and Plastics and
phenomenally change the way we live, work, and relate to Composites. These industries were selected on the basis
one another. As such, there is a need to anticipate future of their combined contribution to national GDP in 2014,
trends and demands and make strategic STI interventions which was valued at RM 148 billion and is projected to Academician Emerita Prof Datuk Dr Mazlan Othman FASc, Project Director of Mega Science 3.0 (second from
and investments today to thrive in the future. This is the increase towards 2050. left) showing the Minister a roadmap of technologies heading into 2050 that were studied.
premise of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia’s (ASM)
Mega Science study. The strategies, recommendations and roadmaps for the
short, medium and long-term (2015-2050) for these five As for the automotive industry, it contributes 2.5 per cent The global cultural and creative industries revenue is
industry sectors were presented at the Mega Science 3.0 to the national GDP annually and 5.84 per cent in terms estimated to be USD 2.25 trillion in 2015 and this makes
National Forum and Exhibition held in November 2016. of employment. There is tremendous growth potential up 3% of the world’s GDP. This sector also provided 29.5
for this industry but we must be aligned to global trends million jobs globally in 2015.
Malaysia has always been known for its wood-based and future demand. The key disruptive technology trends
furniture, owing to its abundant and high quality wood in the automotive sector according to McKinsey are In Malaysia, the total Gross Value Added (GVA) for the
resources. For Malaysia to be a world leader in the furniture diverse mobility, autonomous driving, electrification and creative industry rose from RM20 billion (2.5%) in 2013 to
industry, there is a need to develop design capabilities to connectivity. RM 28 billion (2.7%) in 2015 and is projected to increase
leverage on the disruptive 3D printing technology that to 4.1% in 2030. In 2010, the four areas of the industry
is rapidly advancing. This would enable the Malaysian Heading towards 2050, the industry is pushing for vehicles employed 146,250 people in 10,559 establishments.
furniture industry to evolve from original equipment with greater fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions
manufacturer (OEM) to original design manufacturer starting with the Hybrid Electric Vehicle taking off globally The creative industry and national identity must be
(ODM) and ultimately to original brand manufacturer by 2020, Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle by 2025 and given due attention and the Creative Industry National
(OBM), commanding higher market share and returns. Battery Electric as well as Fuel Cell Vehicle by 2030. By Policy should be followed through with well-governed
Work in the Malaysian furniture industry is often seen then also, the industry is expected to be fully migrated implementation. The creation of a one-stop-centre for
being difficult, dirty and dangerous. As such, automation to autonomous vehicles powered by fuel cell batteries tracking and licensing technology development would
is a key area that must be realised to reduce dependence leading to zero emission. A snapshot of critical R&D areas boost the industry. Full adoption of relevant technologies
on foreign labour and attract high skilled, young, local in the automotive sector is shown in Figure 2. should be considered in order to enhance the sector in
Academician Tan Sri Datuk Dr Ahmad Tajuddin Ali FASc (Immediate talent. terms of ideation, funding, production, marketing and
Past President, Academy of Sciences Malaysia) presenting a draft copy
of Mega Science 3.0 study to YB Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius distribution to realise innovations.
Tangau (Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation). R&D on alternative materials through tissue culture for
new breed of trees could find a solution to the inconsistent The total contribution of Travel & Tourism to Malaysia’s
In 2010, ASM embarked on the Mega Science study with supply of planted wood and certified sustainable timber. GDP was RM 152.8 billion in 2015 and is forecasted to
the aim developing a strategic roadmap towards 2050, in By 2050, we would have moved beyond the “Internet of rise 5.1 per cent per annum to RM 267.7 billion by 2026.
key sectors, based on science, technology and innovation Things” to the “Internet of Everything”, where smart and Travel experience has been revolutionised by digital
(STI) to ensure Malaysia’s future competitiveness. The connected furniture personalised to our lifestyles could technologies, such as our mobile phones, wearables,
Mega Science study forms an integral part of ASM’s become Malaysia’s furniture identity. robots and real-time information. As such, STI will be
“Envisioning Malaysia in 2050” flagship initiative. To date a major enabler to value add to the industry and raise
the Mega Science study having completed its third phase revenue.
has covered fifteen sectors as illustrated in Figure 1.
With virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR)
MS 1.0 (2010): 5 SECTORS (WEHAB) RATIONALE advancing rapidly, the application of such technologies
Addressing basic through user-friendly modes would profoundly redefine
necessities the tourism industry. This would give rise to phenomenon
such as “brain holidays” in the future. As such, this industry
Water Energy Health Agriculture Biodiversity
cannot be developed through conventional lenses but STI
MS 2.0 (2013): 5 SECTORS (HITEE) should be leveraged to transform the tourism industry to
Tackling PeopleÕ
s HOW STI PLAYS The creative industry is often overlooked as a strategic meet future demand.
well-being A ROLE industry where STI can value add and make a phenomenal
difference. As identified by the United Nations Conference Malaysia’s plastics and composites industry is another
Housing InfrastructureT ransportation Enviroment Electricals &
Electronics on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the creative major contributor to the national GDP, and will continue
MS 3.0 (2015): 5 SECTORS (FACT/PC) industry is underpinned by four major sectors: Media, to grow due to huge demand from other industries, such
Catalysing key economic Heritage, the Arts and Functional Creations. as housing, transport, clothing, and telecommunications.
sectors through STI for Alignment to the World Economic Forum’s “New Plastics
wealth creation
Funiture Automotive CreativeT ourismP lastics &
Composites
10 11
Circular Economy”, including Waste to Wealth/Worth for such courses. Malaysia needs to move from a higher
(W2W) and Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Recover (4R’s) education system with a primary focus on university
elements would augur well to chart the development of education as the sole pathway to success, to one where
this industry. academic and TVET pathways are equally valued. This
would be crucial to produce high skilled and competent
The national outlook for the plastics and composites technologists for the nation’s key sectors.
industry is RM 190 billion in revenue and RM 100 billion
in export by 2050. Four key focus areas to be developed The line between man and machine is getting blurred in
for this sector as identified in the Mega Science study are in the fourth industrial revolution. According to the World
advanced materials, advanced manufacturing, product Bank Group, two thirds of all jobs could be susceptible
development as well as environmental and sustainable to automation in developing countries in the coming
development. This industry is well poised to be a catalyst decade. Another estimate by Forbes stated that 47% of
for the development of smart materials for a sustainable US jobs are at risk from automation. The requirements of
future. jobs are shifting into expert knowledge versus catering for
For any industry sector to take off, talent is one of the physically demanding roles. Machines are expected to
critical factors. When it comes to implementing ideas fully take over the cumbersome, dangerous and routine
and creating value to realise innovation, the key factor tasks as they would be able to deliver greater productivity
is people at the heart of global networks. People are the and efficiency. The roles of people, would also have to
prime movers of innovation. As such, talent development change in tandem to the new operating landscape. Their
is crucial for these sectors. responsibilities will increasingly shift to knowledge work,
process control and decision making. It is important to not
A national study, S&T Human Capital: A Strategic Planning only develop such talent for the future but also invest in
Towards 2020 (2012) mentioned that Malaysia needs at the reskilling and upscaling of new entrants in the current
least 1.0 million S&T human capital by 2020 based on workforce to carry out such functions in the future.
a 6% annual economic growth and the emergence of
EPPs (Entry Point Projects) under the NKEAs as well as In order for Malaysia to remain competitive, industries
the emergence of new technology-driven sectors such must become proficient in leveraging STI and the requisite
as nanotech. Out of the 1 million S&T workforce required talent must be nurtured. This calls for shaping of a new
by 2020, 500,000 need to be high skilled workers arising mindset and sharpening of skillsets.
from technical, vocational education and training (TVET).
12 13
14 15
16 17
4.0 INDUSTRY REVOLUTION FOCUS GROUP DIALOGUE:
IN THE FOOD SECTOR Towards Readiness of
By Dr. Pasupuleti Visweswara Rao 4th Industry Revolution
By Dr. Naimah Md Khalil
The first industrial revolution was mainly about which would then direct them to webpages that give
mechanization and the utilization of water and steam clear information on the products such as the content of
power, while the second industrial revolution focused the food and its supply chain.
more on mass production and the use of electricity.
The rise of computer and automation made up the third Digitalisation influences many sectors including the food Mr Tung Chee Kuan officiating the Focus Group Dialogue (FGD). From
industrial revolution, while the current upheaval we are industry. In the current scenario, advanced technologies left: Mr Tung and Tn. Hj. Mohd Fisal bin haroon, the Director Of Balik
Pulau Polytechnic.
in today, more popularly known as Industry 4.0, deals strengthen food safety aspects, which in turn fortifies the
with cyber-physical systems. . Artificial intelligence, role of food in human health, especially with sedentary
biotechnology, IoT (Internet of Things), nanotechnology, lifestyle becoming very common nowadays. Demand Mr Tung Chee Kuan, in the opening speech stated that
digital technologies, and 3D printing, among others, and needs influence food production and, by extension, this platform was established to bring together the
BALIK PULAU, 9 August 2017 - A Focus Group Dialogue wealth of experience and expertise in the industry with
enable the realisation of the ‘smart factory’ that deals with food economy. Industry 4.0 has the capacity to ensure (FGD) was held at Politeknik Balik Pulau. The dialogue,
smart systems and cutting edge technologies. that food and agricultural resources are sufficient and TVET players in an intellectual discourse for the purpose
co-hosted by The Department of Polytechnic Education of developing quality and competent human capital for
sustainable, and that food is safely manufactured, (DPE) and Politeknik Balik Pulau (PBU) was well attended
In the same manner, the food industry has also gone healthy and affordable. With much development, in the 4th Industrial Revolution. Polytechnics as the leading
by 45 participants from 30 industries as well as the TVET provider, with a current annual enrolment of over
through substantial transformative stages over the line with the industrial revolution, processes and bulk lecturers and students from polytechnics and community
years. The first food revolution was only about simple production of foods and their information are available. 100,000 and half a million graduates must respond to
colleges. The event was officiated by Mr Tung Chee the needs and requirements of the Fourth Industrial
farming, while the second focused on manufacturing and Through IoT, the combination of food manufacturers and Kuan, the Director of Industry Liaison & Employability
mechanisation, followed by the third, which was mainly suppliers working together decreases maintenance Revolution and therefore the input from the dialogue is
Division who represented the Director General of the important towards this end.
on technology-based products, advances in processing costs, influences productivity, uncovers opportunities, Department of Polytechnic Education.
machineries and attention towards genetically modified and enhances supply chain. The industry can use IoT to
foods. In the 4.0 revolution, all the above mentioned attain quality standards, with the same product having The intention of the dialogue is to serve as a platform
factors are collectively put to work to attain sustainability the same superior quality anywhere and anytime. for deliberation in achieving a better understanding
, safety , cost effectiveness, and affordability in food of the government directions, industry expectations
production. To add, nanotechnology is applied to aid in Food Economy 4.0 is the combination of physical food and institutions capacity in meeting the challenges of
faster food production and processes. production and the digitalisation of all related processes. the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Four speakers from
This contributes towards achieving sustainability of the industry, Mrs. Siti Norliza Mohd Sahar, Director of Talent
ecosystem as well as realising innovative and creative & Digital Entrepreneurship, MDEC, Dr. Dzaharuddin
entrepreneurial prototypes. In digitalisation, artificial Mansor, National Technology Officer, Microsoft Malaysia,
intelligence (AI) helps in reducing food waste as well as Mr. Amiruddin Zahamail SITRAIN Manager SIEMENS
the number of operators needed on the shop floor. AI also Malaysia and Mr. Prakash Poobalan, Senior Manager
helps in effective data analysis, modelling, processing, Industry Technical Collaboration, Penang Skills
colour classification of foods and quality control. It brings Development Centre (PSDC) shared their knowledge
about accurate and cost effective process projections, and ideas during the session. The forum was mediated
which result in maximising food quality and productivity. by Mrs Noor Aidi bt Nadzri, the Director of Curriculum
Alongside technology, geographical conditions play Development Division and Dr Zainal Azhar bin Zainal
an important role in food production and sustainability. Abidin as the co-mediator.
People living in certain geographical regions may not have Participants raising questions during the session.
20 21
Industry 4.0 and Students’ University Experience How do universities incorporate the exponential change brought about by Industry 4.0?
Malaysian Higher Learning Institutions are also ready for Industry 4.0 by way of programmes and course offerings. In developing and strengthening our human capital base, deliver lectures, but also act as mentors to our lecturers.
These programmes were devised by bearing in mind that Industry 4.0 and the digital era are changing the way higher the Ministry is aware of the vital role of the industries In fact, beginning 2017, phase 2 of the CEO@Faculty
education is managed and giving rise to new expectations. Many of these are hybrid programmes with a focus on in training the younger generation – today and for program themed “Coached by the Pros” will see a
Fusion Technology, apt for Industry 4.0: the future. The two initiatives below focus on human select group of university lecturers placed at the various
capacity building, academic-industry linkages and the companies and undergo industry exposure, including at
exponential change brought about by Industry 4.0. these technology-driven organizations.
The design of UNI-Industry collaboration or UNIC, is a
commendable initiative that blurs the lines between the In the 2u2i program, the Ministry upholds the credence
university and industry in our effort to ensure that our that learning is working, working is learning. 2u2i is a
graduates who will be joining the workforce today and work-based learning program aimed at increasing the
the future years to have the skills and mindset to be opportunities of students to enter the digital industry
employable by emphasizing on their individual talent and after their graduation. Students spend 2 years at the
personal development. university to master theories and 2 years of hands-on
practice in the industry. The 2u2i program intensifies
In regards to the academic-industry initiatives, Professor academia and industry collaborations through seamless
Datin Prof. Dr. Rubiah believes that universities will blend of learning and industry existence via on-campus
be able to embrace the exponential change brought teaching factories, teaching firms and teaching hospitals.
about by Industry 4.0 by “bringing the technology to Leading IT companies such as Oracle, Microsoft, VADS,
the industries.” She proposes the Ministry to assist TM, HILTI and i2M also support the implementation
in providing the platform for various groups to work of this 2u2i programmes. The 2u2i programme will
together in linking the university and the industry. be expanded to 16 programmes in the 2017/2018
academic year covering areas such as data engineering,
Under the Ministry’ 2017 ‘redesigning higher education’ entrepreneurship and bioinformatics.
agenda, we have introduced various initiatives that will
bring our education offerings up to speed with Industry
4.0 changes. Two such examples are our academic-
industry initiatives namely the 2u2i and CEO@Faculty
The presence of Industry 4.0 in the public universities is also established via the formation of Centers of Excellence program.
(CoEs). These CoEs are intended to spur higher education institutions (HEIs) competitiveness in various fields of
research and development, expertise and services in the national and international levels. Below are some research The CEO@Faculty program reinforces academic-industry
entities relevant to Industry 4.0: linkages by bringing together top local and international
CEOs and industry players into Malaysian universities.
Adam Brimo of OpenLearning.com, Lee Sang Hoon of
Samsung and Abraham Liu Kang of Huawei are among
the technology-company based CEOs selected to share
their knowledge and experiences with students and
the university community. 10 percent of the 65 CEOs
appointed for the program are from the innovation and
technology-based industries. These CEOs do not only
Conclusion
Industry 4.0 is already here and Malaysia is at the onset of adopting the newer innovative technologies into our
higher education ecosystem. Our achievements in the global ranking such as the Times Higher Education World
University Rankings is exemplary to our effort in globalizing and escalating Malaysia as the regional education hub.
Yet, we should do more at a greater speed in this challenging times. First and foremost, we should work towards
agile governance culture across the higher education sector. Agility requires transparency and visibility of open
governance practice and I strongly believe that the Ministry should pave the way for it.
The Ministry’s big agenda in redesigning higher education through the introduction of various initiatives is not
merely aimed at addressing the changes in the higher education landscape worldwide, it also directly addresses
the emergence of Industry 4.0 in preparing our graduates for the 21st century challenges as well as addressing the
sustainable development issues. Industry 4.0 may indeed have the potential to “robotize” humanity. Nonetheless,
The diversification of the CoEs highlights the efforts to cultivate and improve the quality and multidisciplinary of we need to shape a future that works for all of us by putting people first and empowering them because everything
research and development pertinent to Industry 4.0. These CoEs predominantly thrive on translational research, comes down to people and values. At the end of the day, creativity is innately human and individual touch and caring
another initiative by the Ministry in driving local universities to seek solutions to the problems faced by the industry, work cannot be replaced by intelligent machines.
academics, government and community. Advances in technologies are employed to realize the Research Priority
Roadmap 2017 which addresses the national and global grand agendas through Research & Development,
Commercialization and Innovation strategies (RDCI).
22 23
Cybercrime: Cybercrime is quite different compared to conventional
crimes that we are having today. In cybercrime, criminals
10,000 cybersecurity professionals to ensure the security
of cyberspace. The ability of Malaysian companies to
An Emerging Threat of the Virtual World may remotely control the attack, possibly from a laptop
in their home. Instead of attacking one victim at any
be prepared and recover quickly from cyberattacks with
minimal disruption will be one of the key survival factors
By Dr Mohamad Asmidzam Ahamat particular time, thousands or more victims could be in the digital economy era.
affected at once. The weapon used could be recycled,
A successful businessman is relaxing in his self-driving car during his journey from office to home. He is very grateful and it could learn to adapt a more challenging resistance Efforts to ensure a secure cyberspace would be more
for the integration of cyber-physical system, where an artificial intelligence is now navigating his car safely, much imposed by cyber defense system. fruitful if each of us does our own part. By taking some
safer compared to when cars were driven by human beings. Along the way, traffic congestion is successfully avoided precautions (Figure 2), we could reduce the risk of
since the artificial intelligence system receives a tremendous amount of data, enabling route optimization. At his Towards the end of the last century, Information becoming a victim in cybercrime. In the near future,
home, air conditioner system and water heater are remotely switched on, the coffee maker machine is heating up; Technology (IT) is one of the emerging job opportunities. computers would control most of our critical system
ready to serve a cup of hot coffee by the time the man arrives. Ten minutes before the estimated time of arrival, some IT professionals are responsible to ensure smooth and and infrastructures, thus more proactive measures must
warning messages appear on his car’s control display. At the same time, his smart phone displays a message; a optimized operation of IT facilities. As we are heading be taken to secure the cyberspace. Can you imagine
large sum of his money was transferred to another bank account that he does not recognize, and he never instructed towards Industry 4.0, cybersecurity becomes one of the what would happen to our energy supply if our smart
the bank to do so. Before he has the chance to call the bank, his car veers off course, leaving him clueless on what key areas in securing our daily activities. Cybersecurity grid system is attacked by cybercriminals? The results
is happening. Fortunately, he manages to regain control and heads home safely after he turns off the self-driving experts are responsible in preparation of incident report would be catastrophic with damages not just on physical
system and disconnects them from Internet. He sighs with a relief. However, the fate of his money is yet to be known. and response plan related to cyberattacks, and conduct facilities, but it could also lead to loss of life for patients
This is one of the scenarios that may happen in the future; something that is unimaginable at present. necessary investigations. A good cybersecurity team is who depend on life-support machines in hospitals.
essential to ensure an establishment of cyber resilient Before it is too late, let us work together in creating a
organizations that are able to identify, prevent, and safer cyberspace!
respond to process or technology failures and recover
with minimal reputational damage or financial loss.
Malaysia’s Critical National Information Infrastructure Out of 193 countries, Malaysia is only behind Singapore
shall be secure, resilient and self-reliant. Infused with a and United States in her commitment to cybersecurity,
culture of security, it will promote stability, social well- as published in the Global Security Index 2017. This
being and wealth creation’ recognition is one to be proud of. Nevertheless,
improving ability in cyber defense system is a never
Vision of Malaysia’s National Cyber Security Policy ending endeavor.
In the National Cyber Security Policy, ten critical sectors
(Figure 1) are listed in the Critical National Information
Infrastructure (CNII) to address the risk of networked
information. This effort is important to gain confidence
from people on the security of cyberspace in Malaysia.
For instance, the Digital Free Trade Zone, one of the
Self-driving cars, smart homes and business web are agenda in Digital Economy requires full confidence
amongst the rising technologies that characterizes on the country digital infrastructure, communication Figure 2: Some tips to protect you from cybercrime
Industry 4.0. Adoption of artificial intelligence reduces the networks, public sectors and businesses.
necessity for human-controlled processes, an advantage
of cyber-physical systems integration. One of the The Cyber Range Malaysia was established in
important cyber components is the computer; which are September 2016 through collaboration between
becoming more complex, and its number of Lines of Code CyberSecurity Malaysia, Cyber Intelligence Sdn Bhd and
is increasing exponentially. Up to three percent of these Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia. This was the
codes could contain flaws or bugs, which are susceptible first cyber range which involved training of cybersecurity
to attack by hackers. Some people believe that anyone professionals through cyber war-gaming scenarios that
who can control the code is capable to control the world. enabled development of their skills and instincts in cyber
defensive actions. Alternatively, organizations can test
By 2020, all people on this Earth are expected to go and validate their cybersecurity systems to develop a
online. Thus, we are living in an ultra-connected world more resilient network infrastructure and operations. In
where cyber threats are becoming more severe and the next four years, Malaysia has targeted to produce
prolific. Recent attacks by WannaCry and NotPetya
ransomware were wake-up calls to us. WannaCry
encrypts a computer’s files while NotPetya make the entire
References
computer to become inoperable by encrypting the whole
1. Future crimes: everything is connected, everyone is vulnerable and
segment of the hard drive. Shortly after these attacks, what we can do about it by Marc Goodman, 2016, Anchor Books
several online trading brokerage firms were then attack Penguin Random House LLC, New York.
by DDoS (distributed denial-of-service). These attacks Figure 1: Ten critical sectors as listed in the Critical
are capable to affect all systems, as long as they are 2. Let’s not wait for another wake-up call by Datuk Seri Panglima
National Information Infrastructure Wilfred Madius Tangau, 2017, https://wilfredmadiustangau.
connected to the Internet, even if the system is physically com/2017/07/16/lets-not-wait-for-another-wake-up-call/
located at the most remote area. The WannaCry, NotPetya (Accessed on 30 July 2017)
and DDoS are just the beginning of cyberattacks; more are
expected to come in the future. 3. National Cyber Security, ICT Policy Division, Ministry of Science,
Technology And Innovation, http://cnii.cybersecurity.my/main/
ncsp/NCSP-Policy2.pdf (Accessed on 30 July 2017)
24 25
Industry 4.0: Implications for
Polytechnic’s Curriculum
By Dr. Naimah Md Khalil
The beginning of a new technological age or revolution (the Fourth Industrial Revolution) is forcing companies
known as the “Fourth Industrial Revolution” or commonly to reexamine the way they do business. Hence,
known as “Industry 4.0” (I4.0) was announced at the smart manufacturing, smart maintenance, and a high
World Economic Forum (WEF) Conference in January degree of automation and integration in all enterprise
2016. In Malaysia the advent of Industry 4.0 is already processes will change current purchase, production,
accepted and embraced (My Foresight 2016). The manufacturing, sales and maintenance processes.
Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) says These changes will impact on business value creation,
that Industry 4.0 is critical to boost Malaysia’s industrial business models, downstream services, and work
and economic growth and for the country’s economy organisation. The disruptive nature of these emerging
to reach its target of RM2 trillion within the next eight technologies and modified structures for communication
years, as announced recently by Prime Minister Datuk and collaboration in I4.0 will transform the existing model
Seri Najib Tun Razak. This underlines that Malaysia’s of work organization. This in turn will affect the work
future productivity growth is highly dependent on the environment significantly. This transformation of work in
capability of the workforce to innovate and to apply all its dimensions will change job profiles and therefore
advanced knowledge and technologies associated with requires workers to be outfitted with a wide range of
I4.0. The issue of talent and human capital development competencies.
is therefore critical to ensure long-term sustainable
economic growth and development. Hence, it remains A clear definition of these competencies, as well as the
the key challenge for the country (My Foresight 2016). relationship and inter-connection between them, will
provide the foundation for competency in the future.
This is crucially needed to ensure a successful I4.0
transformation. Hence, job profiles for engineering,
information technology (IT), and information system (IS)
should be adjusted to include the new competencies
required. Many believe that a combination of big data
competency with sensors and mobile technology,
predictive maintenance, machine learning, process
know-how and process management competency Unlike today’s economy that often focuses on a list There are certain qualifications and skills that will
is vital. In fact, processes are the focus of I4.0, with of domain knowledge and comprise only some very become more important in the future due to the shift
automation playing an important role. Since I4.0 generic behavioral competencies, I4.0 will turn around towards informatisation. This should complement the
will transform business models, business model the work environment where behavioral competencies existing set of qualifications and skills of the skilled
understanding and entrepreneurship are also important (for example, customer orientation, decision making, workers of today. This means the core qualifications and
competencies for the skilled worker. communication, innovating, legal, ethics, self- skills that are practiced in today’s technical training, such
management abilities and teamwork) will be the most as basic knowledge about materials or metal processing,
As such, interdisciplinary competency will play a important competencies that skilled workers should will remain as the core of the education of the skilled
new role. An engineer will have to collaborate with have. Currently, the job content of the typical factory worker.
Malaysian polytechnics are among the biggest IS and IT specialists in order to achieve results in the worker does not necessitate the application of these
suppliers of trained workforce for the nation, providing interconnected environment that we will face. The skills. However, in a factory of the future, there will not In sum, skills and qualifications with respect to IT, data
approximately 55% of TVET workers (Boston Consulting domain or analytical oriented competencies like IT, only be significantly more teamwork on the shop floor processing, data analytics, process understanding, and
Group 2011). Hence, there is an urgent need for the technology affinity, network administration, data security level, but also more teamwork and communication in the ability to work and interact with modern interfaces
polytechnics to address and be prepared for challenges cloud architecture, programming, and in-memory daily operations. Due to greater responsibilities and are of prime importance for the skilled worker of
arising from the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The starting databases will continue to be important in I4.0. autonomy of the workers, there will be a need for self- I4.0. Due to the huge volume of information and the
point is to understand how Malaysian industries are management and other broad management skills. A integration of different business processes, workers
being transformed or going to be transformed by the general mindset for continuous improvement and lifelong need to gain knowledge management abilities and an
digital revolution and how these changes will impact the learning will be valuable as the dynamics of changes in interdisciplinary understanding of their organisation,
skills and competencies needed. A focus group with industrial production will only become more intense. its processes and the technologies used. Additionally,
the industries was held on 9th August 2017 at Balik IT security and data protection will be mandatory. The
Pulau Polytechnic. Moving on from here, the necessary At present, competencies among various disciplines factory worker of the future will be more a generalist than
changes in terms of programmes offered, curricula, are different. For example, IT will relate to a certain job a specialist.
learning approaches and retraining of lecturers can be profile and competency that is completely different from
planned and implemented. the profile for IS or engineering. However, in future, the
competency sets for different disciplines will differ only
As stated by Schwab (2016), the inexorable shift from in some aspects of the knowledge domain. This implies
simple digitisation (the Third Industrial Revolution) to that teaching methods for interdisciplinary teaching
innovation based on combinations of technologies should be given due attention.
26 27
IMPLICATIONS FOR POLYTECHNIC CURRICULUM
The diagram below (Fig 1) depicts a proposed model of that support I4.0 should be offered. The choice of
academic programmes to be offered by polytechnics, available electives and the freedom given for students
based on the requirements of I4.0 as discussed. to choose their preferred electives are very important in
ensuring that the curriculum is both flexible and relevant
to I4.0. The proposed model will enable future work skills
of interdisciplinarity, digitisation, agility, design mindset,
virtual collaboration and innovation.
entrepreneurship makes up the centre. The programmes academic programme model will have the capacity to CMY
are imbibed with technical and humanistic factors become problem solvers and decision makers. They will K
essential to I4.0 – creativity, empathy, stewardship, remain irreplaceable as idea generators and developers
ethics and moral. Only by doing this will we be able to of new products and work processes. Their learning
contain I4.0’s potential tendency to “robotise” humanity. experience will provide them the platform upon which
The robotisation of humanity would glumly deprive us of their capabilities and skills will continuously evolve into
our heart and soul, and it is hence incumbent on us all to an essential resource base.
make sure that humanity prevails (Schwab 2016).
References
1. Prifti L, Knigge M et al, 2017. A Competency Model for “Industrie 4.0” Employees
2. Gehrke L, Rule D et al, 2015. A Discussion of Qualifications and Skills in the Factory of the Future: A German and American Perspective, VDI & ASME.
3. Festo Didactic, 2017. Qualification for Industry 4.0,
4. Hartmann E. A, Bovenschulte M, 2013. Skills Needs Analysis for “Industry 4.0” Based on Roadmaps for Smart Systems, Institute for Innovation and Technology,
Berlin, Germany.
5. Siti Norliza Mohd Sahar, 2017. Championing Malaysia’s Digital Economy, MDEC, Focus Group Dialogue : Towards the Readiness of 4th Indistrial Revolution,
Politeknik Balik Pulau
6. Dzahar Mansor, 2017. 4th Industrial Revolution : Some thoughts on Skills Readiness, Microsoft Malaysia, Focus Group Dialogue : Towards the Readiness of 4th
Indistrial Revolution, Politeknik Balik Pulau
7. Amiruddin Bin Zahamail, 2017. Digital Factory-Driving the Digital Enterprise on the way to Industrie 4.0 Siemens Malaysia, Focus Group Dialogue : Towards the
Readiness of 4th Industrial Revolution, Politeknik Balik Pulau
8. myForesight, 2016
Retrieved from http://www.myforesight.my/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/MyForesight_Mag_04-2016_.pdf
9. Schwab K, 2016. The Fourth Industrial revolution : what it means, how to respond.
Retrieved from https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2016/01/the-fourth-industrial-revolution-what-it-means-and-how-to-respond/
10. Boston Consulting Group, 2011. Rationalizing the implementation of Technical Education and Vocational Training (TEVT)
28 29
SUSTAINABILITY IN
ENGINEERING DESIGN 01 Raw Material
Acquisition 03 Manufacturing
& Assembly 05 Distribution
& Storage 07 End of Life
le
of behavior prediction. This means designers must not
Via
arb
population are preserved. Efficient use of environmental an adjustment in the thinking process. Design thinking only predict the behavior of the solution, but also the
ble
Be
resources, holistic treatment of innovation towards the requires engineers to look beyond responding to the interactions at different stages of the product life-cycle,
environment, and safety issues should be appropriately need of the solutions only, but to also think of the way including how the raw materials are collected, processed Sustainable
calculated. To factor-in sustainability, the multi- materials are used, the interaction between the users and and transported, up to how the physical solution will be
dimensional interactions between ecological, economical the solutions, and the interaction between the solutions disposed at the end of its life-span. To add, the amount
and social systems must be addressed. To add, one and the working environment. Solutions should not be of energy required, and how the energy is generated to Social Economical
must be careful to not shift problems from one area to formulated just for their intended functions, but also in power the processes must also be deliberated.
Equitable
another. a way that satisfy user requirements. This is done by
predicting the behaviors of the solutions when interacting Apart from feasibility and viability, sustainability is
with the users. a feature that must be achieved in any engineering
solution. Sustainability by design is basically an
Design thinking requires engineers to identify the need assessment of how much it will cost the people and the
of a solution by understanding the users and the people environment to make the engineering solution physically
involved in the many stages of product realisation. on hand. It is also about how to use available resources Figure 2 : Interaction
Energy Water Material Land It is difficult to achieve a one-for-all solution, since while providing a healthy and functioning environment for
Minimal hazards and pollution due to the output and waste people have different geographic, demographic and future generations.
psychometric characteristics. A machine or structure
Safety is very much a part of sustainability. Besides designed to operate in temperate climates may not work
human safety, safety of the ecological system must well in tropical climates due to differing temperature,
also be assessed. If the ecological system is negatively humidity and other environmental conditions. Even
impacted by an innovation, this will affect the health and the physique and the behavior of the users could
well-being of human beings. Safety is usually measured be different. If temperature must be lowered, then a
by the occurrence of collisions, explosions or accidents, cooling mechanism is required. On the other hand, if it
while for sustainability, long-term and gradual effects are is too cold, then, a heating mechanism is needed. Both
used to appraise it. However, both deal with the impact mechanisms call for higher energy use.
of having innovation. As such, it can be argued that if
sustainability is achieved, safety is also achieved.
$ $
Ecology Society Economy
30 31
MEMBERSHIP
REGISTRATION
PROFESSIONAL
TECHNOLOGIST
- Graduate Technologist with
practical experience as stipulated
by the Board
GRADUATE
TECHNOLOGIST
- Holds a bachelor’s degree
CERTIFIED recognised by the Board
TECHNICIAN
- Qualified Tecnician with
practical experience as stipulated
by the Board
QUALIFIED
TECHNICIAN
32