MIMOS Berhad, Malaysia’s national research and development agency, and Autodesk today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote 3D design technologies and talent across the country. The “3D Smart Maker Initiative” will see both parties collaboratively fostering the adoption of 3D design and additive manufacturing technologies, and establishing 3D printing facilities nationwide.
This includes the roll out of “3D Smart Maker Labs” in the five economic growth corridors of Malaysia. The first 3D Smart Maker Lab, managed by PERDA Advanced Technical Institute (PERDA-TECH), officially opened today in Penang.
The project is funded by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI)’s social innovation (MSI) fund, which is under the ministry’s Pre-Commercialisation Fund that serves to assist communities in translating knowledge and ideas into products or services towards enhancing the people’s quality of life.
MIMOS Chief Executive Officer Datuk Abdul Wahab Abdullah said: “MIMOS is committed to training young people in creativity and innovation. The 3D Smart Maker will make for an exciting new programme at PERDA-TECH’s Centre of Advanced Skills (COAS), which I understand offers short courses targeted at secondary school leavers and even those who already have Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM), diploma or Bachelor’s degree, as well as those already in the industry and wanting to upskill to increase their income.”
He said that MIMOS had a team of award-winning professionals who were ready impart their knowledge and experience, particularly on design and engineering using 3D-modelling concepts. The collaboration between MIMOS and Autodesk would spearhead the development of skilled human capital much needed in the economic corridors, he said.
Abdul Wahab thanked MOSTI for its commitment in taking this new approach of using emerging technologies and innovation in effectively meeting the real needs of the community.
Autodesk Fusion 360 is the key software that will be used and taught at all 3D Smart Maker Labs. It uniquely brings together computer-aided design, engineering and manufacturing (CAD, CAE and CAM). Available for Mac, PC or mobile, Fusion 360 is an integrated, connected, and accessible tool built for the new ways products are being designed and made.
“Additive manufacturing is having a profound impact on how manufacturers of all sizes look at product design, production, distribution and economies of scale,” said Mr. Rama Tiwari, regional director of sales, Autodesk ASEAN. “Our collaboration with MIMOS will broaden access to such cutting-edge manufacturing tools and techniques, and support the government’s efforts to groom digital manufacturing talent.”
Additionally, the MoU signifies a joint effort to promote research and development in the field of engineering design and rapid prototyping technologies. MIMOS and Autodesk will establish incubation labs that will support and advise startups and small medium enterprises on how to explore digital manufacturing processes, from 3D modelling to fabrication.
