Forging a sustainable future: Insights from NYP’s Mr. Oh Tiong Keng

By: Kathryn Geradino-Elagio

Mr. Oh Tiong Keng, Principal Specialist, Nanyang Polytechnic (NYP)

As a key figure in NYP’s initiatives to drive innovation and sustainability, Mr. Oh discusses the cutting-edge solutions his team has developed to support South East Asian manufacturers in adopting efficient, environmentally-friendly practices. From AI-powered predictive maintenance systems to the importance of international collaboration, Mr. Oh provides a comprehensive view of the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today. This insightful conversation also highlights NYP’s role in fostering industry synergies through its NYP360 platform, helping companies overcome barriers to technology adoption.

Join us as Mr. Oh delves into the details of his work, offering practical advice and a vision for a more sustainable future in manufacturing.

IMNA: Could you tell us how your technology supports sustainable practices in manufacturing?

Oh Tiong: Our company has developed technology designed to support the specific needs of the metalworking sector. For instance, we’ve engineered an AI-powered IoT sensor monitoring system. This system can be attached to metalworking machines to monitor essential elements, like the condition of the cutting tools and spindle.

As the machine operates, our sensors monitor vibration patterns. Over time, if there’s a deviation from the ideal vibration condition, this system alerts the maintenance team. This predictive maintenance reduces downtime and avoids excessive wear and tear on the tools, which helps to conserve energy and minimise waste.

IIMNA: So, how does this technology specifically enhance energy efficiency?

Oh Tiong: When tools wear down, the machine has to use more power to achieve the same results, which increases energy consumption. With our monitoring system, we can detect tool wear early, allowing for timely intervention. This proactive maintenance keeps the machine running at optimal efficiency, reducing unnecessary power increases. Ultimately, this supports both sustainability and cost-efficiency for manufacturers.

IMNA: Now, what would you say are the main challenges in adopting advanced manufacturing technologies in South East Asia?

Oh Tiong: One of the biggest challenges is scalability. Many advanced manufacturing technologies, especially those in Industry 4.0, require significant expertise and high infrastructure costs. These barriers make it difficult for smaller companies, particularly in Southeast Asia, to implement complex systems. Many factories aren’t equipped to support such high-tech solutions, so the initial investment can be daunting.

To address this, we aim to develop cost-effective, standalone solutions. Our goal is to offer scalable technology that can be adapted as a company’s capacity grows, allowing them to see immediate benefits without overwhelming complexity or expense.

IMNA: That sounds like a practical approach. How do you support companies in overcoming these challenges?

Oh Tiong: We take a holistic approach. Not only do we provide the technology, but we also offer training for the engineering teams within these companies. By equipping their teams with the skills to operate and expand these technologies, we empower them to manage and scale the solutions themselves. This approach ensures that they aren’t just buying a product but are becoming self-sufficient with the new technology.

IMNA: How important is international collaboration for advancing manufacturing technology and sustainability?

Oh Tiong: International collaboration is critical. No single company or country has all the solutions needed to address the complex challenges of sustainable manufacturing. At our organisation, we are part of an alliance called the Innovation in Sustainability Alliance, which brings together partners from around the globe, including big names like Schneider Electric and KPMG.

This alliance allows us to leverage each partner's unique strengths to create a more comprehensive, effective solution for the industry. By working together, we can share knowledge, resources, and solutions that ultimately benefit everyone involved.

IMNA: That sounds like a significant support system for companies considering this transformation.

Oh Tiong: It really is. We’re thrilled with the results of this event, as it aligns well with our goals of fostering an educational platform for manufacturing companies to learn about the latest technologies. We hope to continue participating in events like this so that more companies can explore how NYP360 can assist them on their journey toward sustainability and advanced manufacturing.

IMNA: Thank you for your insights so far. Before we conclude, what synergies have you found from participating in today’s event? Has the outcome met your expectations?

Oh Tiong: Absolutely. This event was organised in collaboration with the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Association, of which NYP is a key member. This Association is very industry-oriented, and we believe in connecting with relevant industry associations to advance technology adoption in the local landscape.

This event has been a fantastic platform for showcasing the capabilities of NYP360, which is our comprehensive suite of services. Through this platform, we’re able to highlight how NYP can support companies in their sustainability journey by providing access to our technology schools and demonstrating practical solutions for manufacturing challenges.

IMNA: Finally, what advice would you give to South East Asian metalworking companies that are interested in adopting advanced technology for sustainable practices?

Oh Tiong: My advice is to start small and focus on achievable goals. Sustainability is a journey, and trying to adopt every new technology at once can lead to frustration. Companies should identify specific, high-impact areas where they can implement sustainable practices, like energy efficiency or waste reduction.

Start with low-hanging fruit—initiatives that can provide tangible benefits quickly. This approach builds confidence and momentum. Also, ensure that the solutions you choose are scalable, so you can expand them as your organisation grows.

By beginning with manageable steps and gradually scaling up, companies can adopt sustainability practices in a way that is both financially and operationally sustainable. It’s important to view this journey as a series of progressive steps rather than a single leap.