KPKS PERAK VISITS CHINA TO ADVANCE SME TECHNOLOGY

From Syamsiah Sahat

GUANGZHOU (China), Nov 25 (Bernama) -- The Kinta Small and Medium Business Sustainability Association (KPKS) Perak has led a delegation to China to strengthen ties and explore collaboration opportunities with the country’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The visit, from Nov 23 to 28, aims to align local SMEs with advanced technological trends and global best practices.  

KPKS vice president Tan Boon Chye described the initiative as a significant step towards bolstering the competitiveness of Perak SMEs. 

“We aim to connect local SMEs, starting with Jelapang and Perak, with their Chinese counterparts. This collaboration will allow for the transfer of technical expertise and facilitate sustainable business partnerships between both parties,” he told Bernama. 

The delegation included Jelapang State Legislative Assembly member Cheah Pou Hian, KPKS president Ooi Kah Biew, and several SME leaders from Perak. 

Among them were Wong Kok Hun, executive director of TD Furniture Group; Datuk Loo Leap Chye (Semangat Hikmat Sdn Bhd); Yong Wai Meng (Hurm Burg Marketing (M) Sdn Bhd); Chiang Voon Mun (Chiang Ying Engineering Sdn Bhd); Bernard Ng Chong Yan (Sin Hock Leong Coach Sdn Bhd); Joshua Lim Phan Yih (Salutica Bhd); Sit Heng Yeen (Green Master Harvest Sdn Bhd); and Chia Chee How (Symphony Action Sdn Bhd).

Tan said one of the key objectives of the trip was to study advanced SME management techniques in China. 

“Global competition is increasingly intense, and local SMEs face diminishing profit margins. 

"If they fail to adopt efficient production methods, such as those leveraging the fourth industrial revolution (IR 4.0) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, they risk falling behind,” Tan added. 

Cheah, who joined the delegation as an advisor and facilitator, highlighted the importance of the mission. 

“This effort is part of a broader community transformation initiative. The delegation also attended the International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing and held discussions with Chinese chambers of commerce to expand market opportunities for both regions,” he said.  

The itinerary included visits to high-tech enterprises like Wision Furniture in Foshan, an IR 4.0-driven manufacturer capable of processing 12,000 orders daily, and BosWindor, the third-largest windows and doors manufacturer in China. 

The delegation also toured the Louvre Furniture Mall, a premium furniture gallery featuring over 2,000 branded stores, including renowned names like Versace Furniture and Casa Fendi, alongside distinguished Chinese brands.  

By fostering these connections, KPKS aims to position Perak SMEs for growth, enhanced efficiency, and greater competitiveness in the global market.  

-- BERNAMA