Looking to expand your automotive business in ASEAN?

Connect with key decision-makers from:
🔹 Auto Parts & Components
🔹 Assembly & Automation
🔹 Electronics & EV Solutions

📍 Vietnam & Indonesia
📣 Put your company in the spotlight as a Business Partner.

Renishaw drives precision and efficiency in advancing ASEAN’s automation industry

By: Kathryn Gerardino-Elagio

In today’s dynamic business environment, manufacturers across Asia face the dual challenge of intense global competition and the need to cater to increasingly diverse applications. According to Steve Bell, General Manager for Renishaw ASEAN, in an interview by International Metalworking News for Asia, the key to staying competitive lies in producing parts quickly, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards.

“Regardless of the industry, the goals never really change—manufacturers aim to make parts that meet strict quality requirements, are delivered efficiently, and remain attractive to customers,” Bell explains. “Automation is an enabler for all these objectives. It delivers process consistency, reduces errors caused by human variability, and helps eliminate scrap and rework, ultimately driving efficiency and customer satisfaction.”

Bell also notes that this shift toward automation is not simply about keeping pace with competitors—it is about securing a sustainable operational model in an industry where margins are tight and expectations are rising.

The Power of Machine Tool Probing

For Renishaw, automation in machining goes far beyond robotics and material handling. Bell emphasizes that one of the most impactful areas is machine tool probing, which streamlines essential yet traditionally time-consuming tasks such as tool setup and part alignment.

“Before cutting begins, setting up tools and parts manually can be labour-intensive and prone to errors,” he says. “With tool setters and machine tool probing, manufacturers can automate these steps, accurately orient the part, and ensure the correct configuration before machining starts. Even without using probes inspection purposes, simply using them to set up the part delivers immediate benefits in accuracy and efficiency.”

These advantages extend into using probes in-process to automatically update tool offsets. By tracking dimensional changes due to factors such as temperature fluctuation or tool wear, Renishaw’s systems can make real-time adjustments to maintain part accuracy, reducing the risk of producing defective components. Over time, this not only improves consistency but also reduces production costs and helps manufacturers take on more complex, higher-value work.

Overcoming Perceptions of Complexity and Cost

A common perception among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is that automation is prohibitively expensive or overly complex. Bell believes this view is shifting.

“Automation today is far more accessible than it was a few years ago,” he notes. “The return on investment can be swift, especially when the technology eliminates rework, boosts throughput, and enhances part quality. Importantly, automation isn’t one-size-fits-all—it can start with relatively simple steps like part setup and tool setting, which already deliver significant gains.”

One recent case involved an EV parts manufacturer struggling with high scrap rates and inconsistent quality. By integrating Renishaw’s probing systems for both initial part setup and in-process verification before final cuts, the company virtually eliminated scrap, proving the tangible value of even modest automation solutions.

 

Enabling Smart Manufacturing and Industry 4.0

Machine tool probing also plays a critical role in enabling broader smart factory and Industry 4.0 strategies. Renishaw’s Central factory monitoring software uses part-centric data—rather than just machine utilisation metrics—to track quality in real time.

“In unattended processes, our on-machine systems, by which I mean the machine tool probe and tool setter, can automatically detect the tool wear and adjust offsets to maintain accuracy without human intervention. Renishaw Central does this by collecting and processing metrology data and monitoring the machine status remotely,” Bell explains. “This approach empowers both the automation and the people managing it to make timely, informed decisions. It’s not just about running machines faster—it’s about running them smarter.”

Bell highlights that the ability to gather and act upon live quality data is becoming a non-negotiable requirement for manufacturers aiming to integrate fully into modern supply chains, particularly in industries with zero-defect expectations such as aerospace, medical devices, and electronics.

A Solution for All Sizes of Operations

Bell stresses that automation is not just for large multinational corporations. Smaller workshops, even those with only a handful of machine tools, can see significant benefits—especially when producing high-quality parts for industries like aerospace or oil and gas.

“In reality, making parts without these technologies is what’s truly difficult,” he says. “Automation simplifies processes, reduces trial and error, and makes switching between different production jobs much faster and more efficient. Whether you’re making aerospace components one day and oil-and-gas parts the next, our systems make that changeover smoother and less prone to costly mistakes.”

Local Support and Education in ASEAN

Renishaw’s commitment to the ASEAN market extends beyond selling equipment. Bell underscores that support is the company’s foundation—in new markets, the first hires are always support engineers, not salespeople.

“Because Renishaw is also a manufacturer, we use the same technologies in our own operations. That gives us unparalleled depth and breadth of experience across manufacturing processes,” he says. “We place a strong emphasis on educating customers, especially in regions that are still developing their industrial capabilities. Some clients know exactly how they want to implement our technologies, while others need guidance on best practices. We’re ready to help both.”

Education, he adds, is not a one-time event but an ongoing partnership. From training sessions and workshops to hands-on demonstrations on the customer’s shop floor, Renishaw ensures that its solutions are not just installed but fully integrated into the customer’s workflow.

Looking Ahead

As manufacturing demands continue to evolve toward faster, more accurate, and more efficient production, Renishaw remains committed to refining its products and introducing new solutions.

“Our mission is to keep delivering technologies that simplify processes, enhance quality, and provide measurable value,” Bell concludes. “Whether for a small workshop or a global enterprise, the benefits of automation speak for themselves. The companies that embrace it today will be the ones setting the pace for the industry tomorrow.”

2025 ASEAN Advanced Automotive Manufacturing Summit - Flexible Production & EV Solutions

Siemens’ Strategic Playbook: Shaping a Sustainable, Software-Defined Industrial Future

 

By: Kathryn Gerardino-Elagio

 

At this year’s Siemens Realize LIVE, International Metalworking News for Asia sat down with Suzanne Kopcha, Vice President of Strategy at Siemens Digital Industries Software, for an exclusive conversation on the future of manufacturing. With sustainability, open ecosystems, and digital transformation dominating the industrial agenda, Kopcha offered a deep strategic lens into how Siemens is not only empowering manufacturers to meet global environmental goals but also redefining what’s possible in the era of Industry 4.0.

From leveraging AI and lifecycle intelligence to driving co-innovation through open partnerships, Kopcha’s insights reveal how Siemens is preparing for 2030 and beyond—where everything from automation to innovation will be software-defined, sustainable, and interconnected.

IMNA:  Siemens emphasises designing sustainability into every phase of a product’s lifecycle. From your strategic perspective, how are customers using Siemens solutions to meet global sustainability goals while still maintaining competitiveness?

Absolutely—this is a timely conversation. Just today, Siemens announced the next phase of our sustainability strategy under the DEGREE framework, led by Judith Wiese, our Managing Board Member for Sustainability.

While sustainability is now a top priority for many, Siemens has embedded it in our digital enterprise and digital twin solutions for over 20 years—enabling efficiency through lightweighting, better manufacturability, and optimised performance.

Customers use tools like NX, generative AI, and our simulation and SaaS platforms to reduce material waste and energy use. Solutions like Tecnomatix support the design of energy-efficient processes, and we’re now even optimising entire manufacturing facilities.

We’ve also partnered with Salesforce to extend these capabilities into service, and our integrated material management helps customers source local materials, reducing emissions. In the process industry, our Enterprise Recipe Management helps make supply chains more sustainable.

Beyond tools, we’re investing in people. Our partnership with ABET helps certify future-ready curricula. One major aerospace company now only hires CAD engineers with the NX credential—a testament to its impact.

Looking ahead, we’ll launch an (Life Cycle Assessment) LCA solution with Makersite in late 2025 through Teamcenter, giving customers visibility into the carbon footprint across a product’s lifecycle—helping them design with sustainability in mind from the start.

IMNA:  How is Siemens shaping its strategic priorities to support manufacturers across diverse sectors in transitioning toward Industry 4.0, especially in markets that are still early in digital transformation?

I’ll speak broadly from a Siemens-level perspective. As a company, we’ve made very public commitments to sustainability—including aggressive targets to become carbon neutral across all our manufacturing facilities globally. We've built in-house capabilities and partnered with industry to define standards for measuring carbon footprints within our operations.

On the software side, we were one of the founding members of the Green Software Foundation, alongside Accenture, Microsoft, and other major tech players. This group works to define sustainability standards for software, which is increasingly important as SaaS and AI workloads grow and data centers consume more energy. We’re now designing our software to minimise compute resource demands—a key consideration as AI use scales up.

So we’re embedding sustainability not only in products we provide to customers, but in our internal operations and technology strategy.

IMNA:  With ecosystems becoming more interconnected, how is Siemens supporting strategic partnerships or open ecosystems to help customers co-innovate and drive faster product development?

To be honest, open ecosystems are at the core of everything we do. In the past, we talked about the three pillars of our strategy: comprehensive digital twin, open ecosystem, and modern/adaptable solutions. Eventually, we stopped labeling “open ecosystem” as a differentiator—because it’s no longer optional. It's a must.

We collaborate with a broad range of partners: IBM, Microsoft, AWS, NVIDIA—you name it. Whether it’s industrial metaverse initiatives or Teamcenter integrations, we work hand-in-hand with our partners. For instance, we’ve recently deepened collaboration with Accenture, who created a dedicated Siemens business unit because of the strength of our partnership.

This co-innovation model is key. With many customers, we form a three-way collaboration: Siemens, the customer, and a partner—all working together to drive innovation. Different industries require different strategic partners, and we structure these relationships accordingly.

Unfortunately, not all players share this mindset. Some of our competitors still maintain closed ecosystems and refuse to provide API access—even when major joint customers are requesting it. That’s not sustainable in today’s world. Customers expect openness and integration, and we fully embrace that.

Within my corporate strategy role, I oversee our portfolio planning, including decisions on what we build, buy, or partner for. We've mapped out domains where we consciously avoid acquisitions—not because we can’t invest, but because our partners are already world-class in those areas. That frees us to focus on building uniquely differentiated capabilities for Siemens.

Open collaboration is baked into our DNA—it’s not just a strategy; it’s how we work every day.

IMNA:  Looking ahead, what strategic trends or disruptions do you believe will redefine industrial digitalisation by 2030—and how is Siemens preparing to lead through those changes?

Two major trends are set to reshape the future: software-defined everything and lifecycle intelligence.

The shift to software-defined systems is transforming automation—moving from rigid black-box hardware to flexible, software-driven solutions. This evolution blurs the lines between PLM, EDA, and software engineering, demanding new approaches to systems design, updates, and lifecycle validation.

I prefer the term “lifecycle intelligence” over simply “AI” because it encompasses data quality, AI, and the industrial metaverse. It’s not just about visuals—it’s about deeply integrated, contextual data enabling smarter, more sustainable decisions across the product lifecycle.

AI won't replace humans, but it will amplify human intelligence. Combined with unified data and automated workflows, it will unlock new levels of productivity and innovation—potentially even solving global challenges.

Siemens has long anticipated this shift. Our acquisition of Mentor Graphics years ago positioned us well, and we’re now doubling down with focused investment strategies in these areas. Expect to hear more soon—what’s coming could be industry-defining.

Driving the future of flexible production & EV solutions at the 2025 ASEAN Automotive Summit

On November 13, 2025, the ASEAN Advanced Automotive Manufacturing Summit will take place at the Nuanza Hotel, Cikarang, Indonesia, bringing together industry leaders under the theme “Flexible Production & EV Solutions.” Organized by Ringier Trade Media Ltd., the summit will focus on how Southeast Asia’s automotive sector can adapt to the twin challenges of electrification and sustainability.
 

A Strategic Gathering in Cikarang

Cikarang is one of Indonesia’s most important industrial hubs, home to major automotive and manufacturing players. By choosing the Nuanza Hotel as the venue, the summit offers a professional and accessible platform where manufacturers, suppliers, and technology innovators can engage in both structured sessions and networking opportunities.

 

Organized by Ringier Trade Media Ltd.

With decades of experience delivering high-level conferences across Asia, Ringier Trade Media Ltd. is committed to curating meaningful platforms where industry stakeholders can share insights and explore future opportunities. The company’s expertise ensures the summit will deliver high-value content while also facilitating connections between businesses, associations, and technology providers.

 

Association & Business Partners

The 2025 summit has the strong support of leading organizations. The Indonesian Automotive Parts & Components Industries Association (GIAMM) and the Indonesian ISO Expert Association (IIEA) are official association partners, reinforcing the summit’s credibility and relevance for local industry stakeholders.

 

Business partners Jainnher Machine Co., Ltd., a leader in precision grinding machines, and Jiaxing Daomo Engineering Plastics Co., Ltd., a developer of engineered plastics solutions, will also bring valuable expertise and showcase technologies that address evolving industry needs.

 

Confirmed Speakers and Topics

A distinguished line-up of confirmed speakers will share perspectives on manufacturing flexibility, EV adoption, and sustainable automotive practices:

 

Mr. Kukuh Kumara, Secretary-General, Association of Indonesia Automotive Industries (GAIKINDO)
Trends Shaping the Future of Automotive Industry

• 
  
• Mr. Daniel Doni Sundjojo, Chief Executive Officer, Vicario Research and Consulting
  Gearing for the Future – A Look at Automotive Industry Trends and Forecasts
• 
  
• Mr. Hasbian Ian, Assistant Manager Lean Operations, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia PT
  Role of Localized Supply Chain in Automotive Sustainability
• 
  
• Mr. Sabah Saparian, Director, Yamaha Motor Parts Manufacturing Indonesia
  Trending Simulation Casting Application Towards Efficient Development and Manufacturing of Products
• 
  
• Mr. Novian Amrah Putra, Chairman, Indonesia ISO Expert Association (IIEA)
  ISO Certification Standards for Autonomous and EV Production
• 
  
• Mr. Drajat Hartono, Manufacturing Director, PT Trimitra Chitrahasta
  Developments in Metal Stamping Technology for Automotive and Motorcycle Components Production
• 
  
• Mr. Maslianto Subekti, Country Strategy Marketing Manager, Bosch Rexroth Indonesia
  Precision Technologies and Automation for the Future of Automotive Manufacturing

 

Looking Ahead

As flexible production becomes a cornerstone of competitiveness and EV solutions redefine the automotive supply chain, this summit offers timely insights for companies navigating rapid transformation. Delegates will gain access to strategic perspectives, innovative technologies, and valuable networking opportunities.

 

By bringing together associations, business leaders, and technology innovators under the organization of Ringier Trade Media Ltd., the 2025 ASEAN Advanced Automotive Manufacturing Summit will serve as a key platform to accelerate collaboration and position ASEAN as a driver of next-generation automotive manufacturing.

REGISTER NOW: https://forms.office.com/r/Ftsy3YNQ2B

Join the China–Thailand High-End Forum 2025!

📅 May 14, 2025 | 🕘 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

📍 The Grand Fourwings Convention Hotel, Bangkok

Step into the future of smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 at this exclusive high-level forum!

Hear from industry leaders like Dr. Prapin Abhinorasaeth (President, Thai Automation and Robotics Association) and Mr. Chodnarin Vipada (Secretary-General, Thai PDA) as they reveal strategies driving China–Thailand industrial cooperation.

🔹 Explore cutting-edge innovations
🔹 Unlock cross-border investment opportunities
🔹 Accelerate your digital transformation journey

🎯 Hosted by CCCME | Operated by Ringier Events
🎁 Bonus: Special giveaway for early arrivals!

👉 Register now: https://forms.gle/BYRqQZz2FVGoYbPw9

Celebrating Machining Excellence: Blaser Swisslube Awards Productivity Trophy 2025 Winners in South East Asia

Blaser Swisslube, South-East Asia celebrated customer success by hosting Productivity Trophy 2025 at Vietnam on March 21, 2025. Winners were declared across 5 categories. The winner companies have demonstrated how Blaser’s Liquid Tool has helped them to achieve notable improvements in their machining processes.

Winners of Productivity Trophy 2025:

Tool Optimization – PT. Asia Express Solusi (Indonesia)
Productivity Increase – PT. Cahaya Sukses Mandiri (Indonesia)
Total Cost of Ownership – 29 Mechanical One Member Co., Ltd (Vietnam)
Process Optimization – UMS (Singapore)
Sustainability – Kinergy (Philippines)

Congratulations to all the winners driving success and innovation across South East Asia!

Vietnam’s Manufacturing Momentum: Highlights from the 2025 ASEAN High-Performance Machining Summit

Vietnam’s Manufacturing Momentum: Highlights from the 2025 ASEAN High-Performance Machining Summit

 

By: Kathryn Gerardino-Elagio, Ringier Trade Media Ltd

 

The 2025 ASEAN High-Performance Machining Summit, organised by Ringier Trade Media Ltd’s Ringier Event Southeast Asia, concluded successfully on April 2 with factory tours to Denso Manufacturing Vietnam Co., Ltd and Export Mechanical Tools Joint Stock Company (EMTC). The two-day summit drew participation from business partners across China, Taiwan, Singapore, and Malaysia, along with participants from India, Hong Kong, and other ASEAN nations — all converging to better understand Vietnam’s evolving role in the global manufacturing value chain.

Vietnam’s Path to Global Manufacturing Competitiveness

The summit, held in Hanoi, served as a platform for experts to share how Vietnam is positioning itself as a hub for automotive components, electronics, and advanced automation technologies. As the country climbs the value chain, its journey reflects both its industrial resilience and its ambitious digital transformation goals.

One of the most insightful sessions came from Ms. Do Thi Thuy Huong, Executive Board Member of the Vietnam Electronic Industries Association (VEIA).​ She highlighted:

• Key production provinces like Bac Ninh, Bac Giang, Thai Nguyen, Hai Phong, and Ho Chi Minh City now host advanced manufacturing facilities.
• Companies such as Samsung and Intel are deeply embedded in Vietnam’s supply chains — Samsung producing a large share of global smartphones, and Intel operating its largest chip assembly and test plant globally.
• However, Vietnam still relies heavily on foreign technology and assembly operations, with limited local innovation. Ms. Huong stressed the need for greater investment in R&D and homegrown solutions.

She also referenced the Vietnam Smart Manufacturing Market, projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.2% from 2024 to 2032, fuelled by the National Digital Transformation Program and high-tech zones like Hoa Lac and Saigon High-Tech Park.

Driving Digital Transformation in Automotive Parts

Ms. Pham Hoai Anh, CCO of 1C Vietnam and representative of the Hanoi Association of Main Industries (HAMI), presented an in-depth view of digital transformation efforts in Vietnam’s motorcycle and automotive parts manufacturing. Her keynote aligned with recent data showing Vietnam's strong performance in auto parts exports:

• US$13.67 billion total exports in the first 11 months of 2024 — a 13% year-on-year increase.
• US$9.03 billion came from auto parts exports alone, a record-breaking achievement.
• The USA (24%) and Japan (22%) are Vietnam’s top two export destinations​.

Vietnam now ranks 3rd globally in automotive wiring component exports, following China and India — reinforcing its growing influence in the automotive supply ecosystem.

From Lean to Lighthouse: A Framework for Sustainable Manufacturing

Another compelling presentation came from Mr. Pham Minh Thang, Vice President of the Vietnam Association of Supporting Industries (VASI) and CEO of P&Q Solutions​

He introduced VASI’s “Lighthouse Manufacturing” initiative — an integrated model for sustainable and digitally empowered manufacturing excellence.

Key points included:

• Members who completed Lean Transformation achieved 20%+ annual efficiency growth.
• Efforts in automation, digitalisation, and on-roof solar energy adoption show promising but fragmented progress.
• The next phase focuses on building a Manufacturing Excellence Model anchored by:
• Lean Manufacturing as foundation
• Productivity measurement systems
• Digital & green transformation
• Leadership development at the core

He emphasised a collaborative network involving research bodies, tech providers, and industry players to push for systemic transformation.

 

Industry Innovations and Tech Spotlights

Several technical presentations also enriched the summit’s agenda:

• Mr. Xiong Hui from Han’s Laser explored how laser technology is modernising automotive manufacturing.
• Mr. Vipin Kumar Rajput from CERATIZIT discussed machining challenges and their solutions.
• Mr. Kan Huang of Radici Group delved into new material demands in e-mobility.
• Executives from Automech, V-PROUD, and VINFAST shared insights on CNC programming, quality assurance, and lifecycle management in vehicle development

 

Wrapping Up with Real-World Insights

The final day featured exclusive factory tours to Denso Manufacturing Vietnam Co., Ltd and EMTC, offering delegates a firsthand look at Vietnamese manufacturing in action. These visits not only showcased technical capabilities but also illustrated how global partnerships and local expertise are blending in Vietnam’s industrial landscape.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 ASEAN High-Performance Machining Summit offered more than just expert talks and factory visits — it provided a real-time snapshot of Vietnam’s dynamic transformation. No longer just a destination for low-cost assembly, Vietnam is steadily shaping its identity as a forward-thinking, innovation-driven manufacturing hub.

From government-backed digitalisation programs to increasing adoption of smart manufacturing practices, the country is building the foundations to lead Southeast Asia in high-performance machining and industrial automation. The summit brought together thought leaders, manufacturers, and solution providers who are not only adapting to these changes — they’re helping drive them.

What stood out most was the openness and enthusiasm for collaboration. Participants from China, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, India, and beyond had the opportunity to exchange ideas and forge connections with Vietnamese companies, local industry associations, and policy influencers. Whether you’re a business seeking regional partnerships, a solutions provider looking for market expansion, or an industrial leader exploring what's next, Vietnam offers a compelling story — and the ASEAN High-Performance Machining Summit is where that story unfolds.

As the summit concluded with real-world factory insights and cross-border conversations, it became clear: the groundwork is being laid now for long-term success. For companies invested in the future of precision manufacturing and sustainable growth in Asia, this is the moment to engage.

We look forward to welcoming more partners, innovators, and regional leaders to the next edition of the summit. Your next opportunity to be part of Vietnam’s industrial journey starts here.

Transform Your Design Process with Mechatronics Concept Designer

 In today's fast-paced design world, manufacturers need to create innovative products quickly and efficiently. Coupled with the digital twin, Mechatronics Concept Designer (MCD) accelerates product development, improves design quality, and reduces integration issues.

MCD supports the entire design process, from conceptual design through to machine commissioning, allowing design validation, rapid changes and lower costs across all development stages and between different departments. By integrating software and hardware domains, MCD helps to dramatically reduce time-to- market.

Join this webinar to discover how NX Mechatronics Concept Designer (NX MCD) and the digital twin can transform your workflow. NX MCD enables mechanical, electrical, and automation engineers to collaborate seamlessly, enhancing communication and efficiency.

Webinar Date: Wed, February 12, 2025

Time: 9.30 am MYT and SGT

Save Your Spot  

Key Benefits for You:

•  Seamless Integration: Move from design to manufacturing planning in one platform.

•  Robust Simulation: Validate your concepts before production.

•  Increased Productivity: Use the latest NX MCD updates to boost efficiency.

Register Now at this link:

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/2017295656493/WN_qAH95-mcSmu_IJ47rsHwSg

International Metalworking News for Asia December 2024 Issue

In this final 2024 issue of International Metalworking News for Asia, we delve into the latest advancements and sustainability efforts reshaping the manufacturing landscape. In Enterprise Close-up, we feature an exclusive interview with Mr. Oh TK, Manager at Nanyang Polytechnic, who shares how his team is helping South East Asian manufacturers adopt sustainable and efficient practices.

Our Machine Tools section highlights revolutionary technology capable of producing precision ball pins every seven seconds, underscoring the importance of innovation in automotive components.

We bring insights from the Advanced Manufacturing Technology & Sustainability Showcase 2024, where industry leaders, including Mr. Raymond Wee and Mr. Jimmy Teo, discussed the future of sustainable manufacturing.

In Lasers & Welding, discover TRUMPF's TruLaser Series 1000 Lean Edition, designed to support small-scale manufacturers with an efficient and cost-effective laser cutting solution.in Tooling & Workholding. We examine the growing role of aluminium in automotive weight reduction, spurred on by the rise of electromobility.

 

Software & Control explores the transformative new features in GibbsCAM 2024, which aim to streamline CAD/CAM operations and boost productivity. In Metrology, we discuss the sustainable practices in machine tool operations that are driving reduced carbon footprints and greater efficiency.

Lastly, our Outlook 2025 gathers insights from industry leaders on emerging trends in Southeast Asia, offering a glimpse into what the future holds for the region's manufacturing sector.

Enjoy this packed issue as we journey through the technologies and strategies paving the way for a sustainable and efficient future in manufacturing.