Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur (IMKL) 2025 concluded on 16 May following three days of strategic discussions, knowledge sharing, and technology showcases focused on advancing smart manufacturing across the ASEAN region. The third edition of this conference-led event welcomed 2,164 visits and 357 conference attendees to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), under the theme “Synergising technologies and workforce adoption for operational success.”
Organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd and endorsed by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), IMKL 2025 brought together a global network of corporate leaders, industry experts and academic figures from nine countries and regions. The event featured 23 speakers, 19 conference sessions, four breakout discussions and 21 Tech Lab sessions, in addition to 19 product showcases representing six countries.
Fiona Chiew, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, remarked on the event’s success:
“We are delighted that IMKL 2025 has once again attracted such a wide range of ASEAN manufacturing professionals. Feedback from participants has been highly positive, reaffirming the event’s role as a key platform for industry experts to connect and discuss the future of smart manufacturing. Moving forward, we will continue to expand this platform to ensure it remains a valuable resource for professional and industrial advancement in the region. I look forward to reuniting with speakers and attendees at next year’s edition.”
This year’s programme featured the debut of the SPS Stage Kuala Lumpur pavilion, bringing internationally recognised content from the SPS brand to Southeast Asia. The event combined a two-day conference with live demonstrations, workshops and product exhibitions, all focused on digital transformation, AI adoption and operational excellence.
Speakers and panelists offered key insights into the development and integration of artificial intelligence in manufacturing. Topics included real-world case studies, AI applications, workforce transformation and process optimisation. Breakout sessions offered interactive discussions tailored to specific interest areas, while the Tech Lab sessions and product showcases highlighted cutting-edge innovations ranging from smart factory solutions to robotics and data connectivity.
Professor Dr David Romero, Scientific Vice-Chairman of the World Manufacturing Foundation, noted IMKL’s evolution:
“In just three years, IMKL has become the ASEAN region’s key event for digital transformation and intelligent manufacturing technologies. We now see former delegates returning as speakers, creating a community of shared knowledge and collaboration.”
The event drew strong support from national and international stakeholders. Mr Sam Majid, Head of the National AI Office (NAIO), said IMKL plays an instrumental role in helping Malaysian manufacturers leverage AI to drive innovation, reduce costs, and enhance output. Mr James Kok of AI Singapore echoed the sentiment, emphasising the importance of people, purpose and policy in intelligent manufacturing.
For Dr Deny Sapian of Schaeffler Malaysia, IMKL provides essential industry clarity:
“An event like IMKL is vital for fostering purposeful awareness, guiding stakeholders on priorities, and driving sustainable growth.”
Industry exhibitors and educational institutions also played an active role in shaping discussions. Monash University Malaysia, MOXO and Bossard (M) Sdn Bhd were among those presenting innovations at SPS Stage Kuala Lumpur, with participants praising the format for encouraging ecosystem collaboration and in-depth exchange.
Conference delegates echoed these sentiments. Representatives from Dell Technologies, FGV Holdings, Rovski Industries and the Malaysian Rubber Board noted the importance of accessible, actionable content. Key themes included AI integration, workforce training, robotics, and the digital readiness of SMEs.
TS Dr Roland Ngeow of the Malaysian Rubber Board commented:
“At Academy Hevea Malaysia, we work closely with rubber product manufacturers, and the insights shared at IMKL help us introduce transformative technologies to the sector.”
The next edition of Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur is set for 2026, with further details to be announced. The event continues to be co-organised with the Selangor Human Resource Development Centre (SHRDC) and supported by a broad coalition of government bodies, industry associations and academic institutions across the region.
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