24 LOCAL DESIGNERS ACCORDED CIDE RECOGNITION

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 12 (Bernama) -- Twenty-four local designers received recognition at the Certified Industrial Designer (CiDE) 2024 programme organised by the Malaysian Design Council (MRM) today.

Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, emphasised the vital role played by all recipients in raising public awareness on design as a tool for innovation, sustainability, and economic development.

"You are all symbols of excellence in the field of design and an inspiration to young designers across the country. This award reflects your dedication, creativity, and professionalism," he said in his speech at the MRM-Industry Dialogue and CiDE 2024 award ceremony held today.

His speech was delivered by Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, Liew Chin Tong.

Also present were Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry deputy secretary-general (Investment), Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil, MRM director Amirul Fadhli Che Ismail, CiDE committee chair Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Ahmad Zainuddin and President and Group CEO of SIRIM Berhad, Datuk Dr Ahmad Sabirin Arshad.

Earlier, Amirul Fadhli, in his speech, said that the CiDE 2024 programme sets high professional competency standards for industrial designers, requiring at least five years of work experience, a portfolio of commercially successful products, and patent achievements.

He said that the 24 designers who were recognised had met stringent criteria, not only showcasing their talent but also symbolising a promising future for the design industry in Malaysia.

"For some, design might be viewed as mere aesthetics. But for MRM, design goes beyond that - it is a medium to solve problems, drive innovation, and build the nation’s identity.

"Just look at the remarkable innovations coming out of Malaysia. Our designs reflect not only creativity but also the ability to compete on a global stage," he said.

Furthermore, Amirul Fadhli said that design and innovation will be crucial to Malaysia's success as ASEAN chair next year.

He urged industry players to demonstrate that Malaysia is not only a leader but also an inspiration to other countries in the region.

“With the support of the National Design Roadmap (NDR) and strategic backing from MITI, I am confident we can elevate the ‘Designed in Malaysia’ brand to a global level.

“To drive the NDR’s implementation and support the establishment of the National Design Centre (NDC) mandated to MRM, a Reform Strategy Plan will be launched for 2025,” he said.

He added that this plan aims to provide a clearer vision of the responsibilities that all stakeholders must undertake.

-- BERNAMA