SRIE 2024: Advancing Malaysia's railway sector through localisation and technology transfer

Front row, from left: Mr Chelvam, Mr Eugene Tan, Dr Chua, Dato’ Hasan Azhari, YB Sim, YB Ng, Datuk Mohd Yusoff, Prof Faidz, Dr Sharoul, Mr Daniel Mao and Ms Ivy Chan

On 28 November 2024, the 4th Symposium on Railway Infrastructure and Engineering (SRIE 2024) was held at UTAR Sungai Long Campus, focusing on the theme of Localisation via Technology Transfer. Organised by UTAR Centre for Railway Infrastructure and Engineering (CRIE), the event brought together academics, industry leaders, and policymakers to explore strategies for enhancing Malaysia’s railway sector.

Prof Faidz delivering his speech

The symposium opened with a welcome speech by Prof Ts Dr Faidz bin Abd Rahman, UTAR Vice President for R&D and Commercialisation. He said, “Localisation and technology transfer are crucial for empowering local talents, reducing dependency on foreign expertise, and creating a self-sustaining ecosystem for railway development. By integrating advanced technologies into our local operations and investing in skills development, Malaysia can achieve greater cost efficiency, innovation, and resilience. This symposium serves as a powerful platform to explore these possibilities and strengthen collaborations that benefit the railway sector and the nation as a whole.”

Datuk Mohd Yusoff giving his speech

The next speaker, Datuk Dr Mohd Yusoff Sulaiman, President of the Malaysia Rail Industry Corporation (MARIC), addressed the significance of fostering partnerships among academia, industry, and the government. He emphasised that rail transport has become increasingly advantageous due to technological advancements, making it a superior mode of transportation compared to others. He urged for a more constructive and expansive embrace of rail development, highlighting its potential to catalyse economic growth and drive national progress. He also stressed the importance of focusing on infrastructure and engineering within the rail industry, pointing out that localisation, innovation, and sustainability are essential pillars for success, cautioning that without innovation, progress could stall.

 

YB Sim delivering his remarks

YB Sim Tze Tzin, Chairman of the Technology Depository Agency (TDA) and Member of Parliament for Bayan Baru, spoke about Malaysia’s Rail Support Industry Roadmap 2030. He stated, “The railway industry stands as a cornerstone of our nation’s infrastructure, playing a crucial role in driving economic growth and connectivity. To support this growth, the Malaysian government has outlined clear goals under the Malaysia Rail Support Industry Roadmap 2030 (MRSI 2030), including developing a globally competitive rail industry, increasing local content to 50%, and creating 20,000 new jobs by 2030. These initiatives are designed to build a robust, sustainable, and innovative railway ecosystem in Malaysia.”

YB Ng delivering his remarks

The official launch of the symposium was officiated by YB Ng Sze Han, Selangor State Executive Councillor for Investment, Trade, and Mobility. YB Ng said, “Our railway network is a key component of the national transportation system, crucial for both passenger and freight transport. This sector is experiencing remarkable growth, driven by increased public-private collaboration, technological advancements, and a growing demand for rail services, particularly from international markets. Moving forward, the Selangor State Government remains committed to fostering this sector through investment in infrastructure, talent development, and strategic partnerships with industry leaders."

Souvenir presentation

Exhibition tour

Mr Eugene Tan delivering his keynote speech

Mr Chelvam delivering his keynote speech

The symposium featured several compelling keynote addresses. Mr Eugene Tan Hock Lim, CEO of Tech-Store Malaysia, shared success stories of localisation through strategic partnerships, illustrating the potential of collaborative efforts in advancing Malaysia’s railway capabilities. Mr Chelvam Rengasamy, Project Management Head of SMH Rail Sdn Bhd, addressed the challenges of technology transfer in the railway sector and proposed solutions for overcoming these hurdles.

From left: Dr Wong, Mr Eugene Tan, Mr Chelvam and Dr Sharoul

Later in the programme, forums allowed industry leaders to delve deeper into key topics. The first forum, moderated by UTAR academic Ts Dr Wong Whee Yen, explored the challenges and opportunities in localisation via technology transfer. Panellists included Mr Eugene Tan, Mr Chelvam, and Dr Sharoul Jambari, CEO of TDA, who shared their expertise and perspectives.

Mr Ng delivering his keynote speech

Dr Sharoul delivering his keynote speech

The symposium’s afternoon sessions shifted focus to digital innovation and its implications for Malaysia’s rail industry. Mr Ng Yi Teng from Huawei Technologies Malaysia spoke about the role of artificial intelligence and advanced ICT infrastructure in achieving sustainable mobility. Dr Sharoul Jambari, in his keynote, elaborated on TDA’s efforts to bridge the gap between technological innovation and industry needs through targeted programmes.

From left: Datuk Mohd Yusoff, Mr Lim, Ir Nizam and Mr Raymond

The second forum of the day, moderated by MARIC President Datuk Mohd Yusoff, examined the opportunities and challenges posed by digital transformation in the Malaysian railway sector. Panellists included Mr Raymond from Huawei Technologies Malaysia, Ir Nizam, CTO of KTM Berhad, and Mr Lim Chi Nan, Chief of Assets and Technical Value Add at MRT Corp. The discussions centred on how digitalisation could streamline operations and drive efficiency in railway systems.

Dr Chua delivering the closing remarks

The symposium concluded with closing remarks from Assoc Prof Ir Dr Chua Kein Huat, the Organising Chairman of SRIE 2024. He thanked the participants and organisers for their contributions and highlighted the event’s role in fostering collaboration and advancing Malaysia’s railway sector. A networking session followed, enabling attendees to explore potential partnerships and collaborations.

The event was made possible through the generous support of its sponsors, including the Technology Depository Agency, Invest Selangor Berhad, Huawei Technologies (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, Tech-Store Malaysia Sdn Bhd, SMH Rail Sdn Bhd, and Doshin Rubber Product (M) Sdn Bhd. Their contributions helped ensure the success of SRIE 2024​.