The Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry officially launched the Malaysia Aerospace Centre of Excellence (MyAERO Centre) in collaboration with the National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia (NAICO Malaysia). The launch coincided with the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2023 (LIMA’23). Additionally, the “AS9100 Certification by SIRIM QAS International” was also unveiled during the event.
The importance of creating a conducive ecosystem to attract greater high-quality aerospace investments to Malaysia and stimulate domestic direct investment (DDI) was emphasised. In addition to enhancing the local supply chain, there is also a need for a strategic implementation plan to continuously develop highly skilled talent in line with the industry’s latest requirements. Comprehensive digitalisation is necessary for the aerospace industry in Malaysia to remain competitive on a global scale, the Deputy Minister said.
NAICO Malaysia, the recently established agency, will play a pivotal role in fostering industry collaborations in aerospace talent development, supply chain management, and Research & Technology (R&T). Its flagship initiative, MyAERO Centre, will serve as a catalyst to further strengthen Malaysia’s competencies on a global scale. Additionally, MyAERO Centre will be positioned as the primary repository of knowledge in the domains of talent development, supply chain management, and R&T.
The MyAERO Centre will be acknowledged as a platform that facilitates strategic partnerships between local entities, global players, and relevant organisations. Through this platform, partners will have the opportunity to explore avenues for enhancing market access and venturing into new business areas. Recognising the significance of digital technology, the centre will also champion initiatives focused on digital transformation and advancements within the aerospace community.
In the meantime, SIRIM QAS has received accreditation from the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) as a Certification Body for the Aerospace Quality Management System (QMS) Scheme. This accreditation empowers SIRIM QAS to support local entities in expediting their AS9100 certification procedures. The timing of this initiative is particularly opportune for SIRIM QAS, considering the rapid growth and expansion of Malaysia’s aerospace industry ecosystem.
MITI remains committed to supporting other segments of the aerospace industry, including the development of locally assembled seaplanes and commercial drones for diverse operations. These endeavours not only aim to reduce reliance on imported aerospace equipment but also seek to expand aerospace exports beyond commercial aircraft parts and components.
In addition, MITI envisions Malaysia venturing into aerospace-grade material production for the global market and becoming a vital supplier of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). By pursuing these initiatives, MITI aims to further strengthen Malaysia’s presence in the aerospace industry and contribute to its sustainable growth.
The Deputy Minister, witnessed exchange of documents which involved various agencies of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), industry players, and aerospace cluster developers. The documents centred around areas such as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and professional development, Research and Technology (R&T), enhancement of the local supply chain, aerospace quality certification, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and the development of the seaplane ecosystem.
MITI plays a crucial role in positioning Malaysia as the preferred destination for high-quality investments and elevating the country’s status as a globally competitive trading nation. With its focused objectives and responsibilities, MITI aims to facilitate rapid economic development and contribute to Malaysia’s goal of attaining developed nation status.