A NOTE FROM THE CEO

2

US - CHINA TRADE TENSION – BIDEN ERA

3-7

SHIPBUILDING STEEL PLATES

9-11

ACCREDITED LABORATORIES RAISINGTHE STANDARD AND ECONOMY

12

STANDARDS 25TH ANNIVERSARY

13

WORLD ACCREDITATION DAY 2021

14

NATIONAL OCCUPATIONAL SKILLS STANDARD (NOSS)
ON COLD-ROLLING MILL

15-17

RETIREMENT OF TAN SRI DATO’ SOH THIAN LAI18A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR STEEL19

RESKILLING AND UPSKILLING PROGRAMME UNDERPENJANA INITIATIVE

20-21

STEEL INDUSTRY MAJOR ROLE IN PRODUCING
RENEWABLE ENERGY

23

Retirement of DATUK IR DR AHMAD FADZIL24

DEALING WITH NON-CERTIFIED STEEL WIRE MESH IS
NON-COMPLIANT
EARTH DAY: STEEL INDUSTRY NEEDS TO ADOPTECO-FRIENDLY MEASURES

25-26
27

GLOBAL IRON ORE PRODUCTION

29-30

CHINA: STEEL INDUSTRY MAY HIT CO2 OBJECTIVES
EARLY

31-32

FACILITATION OF INDUSTRY OPERATIONS BY MSI

34

SOUTH AMERICA’S LONGEST SUSPENSION BRIDGE WILLBE EARTHQUAKE RESISTANT
CLIMATE CHANGE: USING SCRAP FOR STEELMAKING

35-36
38

MSI WITH YOU

39-49

MSI BRIDGING GAPS

50-52

MSI TRU

53-55

June 2021 | Issue 1

2

US - China Trade Tension– BIDEN Era

June 2021 | Issue 1(Note: The views expressed are that of the writer, based on reports from various sources and not the view of MSI/MITI)

BackgroundThe global Covid-19 pandemic and the ensuing unprecedented upheaval came as a tsunami; such that the
US-China trade tension is now on the backburner of global trade and, with President Biden taking over thehelm, all are waiting with bated breath to know whether there would be any change in policy direction of the
US towards China.
In this article we will look at the developments since President Biden came into office in relation to the tradetension created initially by the US Section 232 steel and aluminium action globally, the US Section 301 action
targeting China, Phase One Deal, Huawei (technological rivalry) and multilateralism (including WTO).

Update On Developments3June 2021 | Issue 1

4

June 2021 | Issue 1

5June 2021 | Issue 1

6June 2021 | Issue 1

7

June 2021 | Issue 1

8June 2021 | Issue 1

9June 2021 | Issue 1

Grade

C%≤

Mn %

Si %

p%≤

S%≤

Al %

Nb %

V%

A

0.22

≥ 2.5C

0.10~0.35

0.04

0.40

—

—

—

B

0.21

0.60~1.00

0.10~0.35

0.04

0.40

—

—

—

D

0.21

0.60~1.00

0.10~0.35

0.04

0.04

≥0.015

—

—

E

0.18

0.70~1.20

0.10~0.35

0.04

0.04

≥0.015—

A32 D32 E32

0.18

0.70~1.60
0.90~1.60
0.90~1.60

0.10~0.50

0.04

0.04

≥0.015——

A36 D36 E36

0.18

0.70~1.60
0.90~1.60
0.90~1.60

0.10~0.50

0.04

0.04

≥0.0150.015~0.050

0.030~0.10

V-impact test
Thickness
Grade
(mm)

Yieldpoint(Mpa) ≥

TensileElongation
StrengthTemperature
(%)≥
(Mpa)
(0C)

cold bend test

Average AKV
A kv /Jcrosswise

b=2a
180°

b=5a
120°

—

—

d=2a

—

27

20

—

d=3a

31

22

—

d=3a

34

24

—

d=3a

lengthways
≥

A
B
D

—
≤50

235

400~490

22

0
-10

E

-40

A32

0

D32

≤50

315

440~590

22

-20

E32

-40

A36

0

D36

≤50

355

490~620

21

E36

-40

variety
Shipbuilidng plate
Shipbuilidng coil

10

-20

cutting edges
non- cutting edges
cutting edges
non-cutting edges

Thickness (mm)
6~50
6~20

Width (mm)1500~3000
1300~3000
1500~2000
1510~2010

Longth/ inner diameter (mm)3000~15000
760+20~760-70

June 2021 | Issue 1

theoretical weightThickness (mm)Kg/ft2

Kg/m2

6

4.376

47.10

7

5.105

8

theoretical weightThickness (mm)Kg/ ft2

Kg/m2

25

18.962

196.2554.95

26

20.420204.10

5.834

62.80

28

21.879219.80

10

7.293

78.50

30

23.337235.50

11

8.751

86.35

32

25.525251.20

12

10.21

94.20

34

26.254266.9014

10.939109.903527.713274.7516

11.669125.6040

29.172314.0018

13.127141.304532.818353.2520

14.586157.0048

35.006376.8022

16.044172.7050

36.464392.5024

18.232

188.40nominal thickness(mm)The thickness deviation with following width (mm)≤1200

>1200~1500>1500~1800>1800>6.0~8.0

±0.29

±0.30

±0.31

±0.35

>8.0~10.0

±0.32

±0.33

±0.34

±0.35

>10.0~12.0

±0.35

±0.36

±0.37

±0.43

nominalthickness(mm)

The thickness deviation with following width (mm)minus
deviation > 1000 > 1200 > 1500 > 1700 > 1800 > 2000 > 2300 > 2500 2600 > 2800
(mm)
~1200
~1500 ~1700 ~1800 ~2000 ~2300~2500 ~2600 ~2800 ~3000>12~25

-0.8

+0.2

+0.2

+0.3

+0.4

+0.6

+0.8

+0.8

+1.0

+1.1

+1.2

>25~30

-0.9

+0.2

+0.2

+0.3

+0.4

+0.6

+0.8

+0.9

+1.0

+1.1

+1.2

>30~34

-1.0

+0.2

+0.3

+0.3

+0.4

+0.6

+0.8

+0.9

+1.0

+1.2

+1.3

>34~40

-1.1

+0.3

+0.4

+0.5

+0.6

+0.7

+0.9

+1.0

+1.1

+1.3

+1.4

>40~45

-1.2

+0.4

+0.5

+0.6

+0.7

+0.8

+1.0

+1.1

+1.2

+1.4

+1.

11

June 2021 | Issue 1

12June 2021 | Issue 1

13June 2021 | Issue 1

Figure 1:
Typical Carbon Steel Cold Rolling
Process Flowchart

Figure 2:
Typical Stainless Steel Cold Rolling
Process Flowchart

15

June 2021 | Issue 1

16National Occupational Skills Standard(NOSS) on Cold-Rolling Mill

June 2021 | Issue 1

17

June 2021 | Issue 1

18

19

June 2021 | Issue 1

20

June 2021 | Issue 1

21June 2021 | Issue 1

23

June 2021 | Issue 1

24June 2021 | Issue 1

25

June 2021 | Issue 1

LICENSEE’S NAME or TRADEMARKMESH REFERENCE

THE GRADE OF MESH

THE TYPE OF MESHDIMENSION OF MESHNUMBER OF SHEETLOT NO. /MANUFACTURING DATEABC SDN. BHD.
A63

COLD WORKED RIBBEDBAR GRADE B500A OF
MS 145 : 2014

SQUARE MESH

5000mm x 2100mm

20 PIECES

26-June-20

STANDARD NO.
SIRIM CERTIFICATION MARKSIRIM LICENSE NUMBER

SIRIM

Certified to MS 145 : 2014
Certification No.: PCXXXXXX*

Size (mm)Minimum mass per meter(kg/m)

Nominal mass per meter(kg/m)

Maximum mass per meter(kg/m)

6

0.209

0.222

0.235

7

0.284

0.302

0.320

8

0.371

0.395

0.419

9

0.477

0.499

0.521

10

0.589

0.617

0.645

12

0.848

0.888

0.928

26

June 2021 | Issue 1

27

June 2021 | Issue 1

No.

Country

Million Tonnes

Total %

1.

Australia

930

36.5

2.

Brazil

480

19.0

3.

China

350

13.7

4.

India

210

8.2

5.

Russia

99

3.9

6.

Others

477

18.7

2,546

100.0

Total

Year

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

Iron
Ore

55.82

58.61

71.77

69.67

93.88

155.4329

June 2021 | Issue 1

June 2021 | Issue 1

31

June 2021 | Issue 1

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June 2021 | Issue 1

35

June 2021 | Issue 1

36June 2021 | Issue 1

38

June 2021 | Issue 1

39

MSI With You

June 2021 | Issue 1

Courtesy Visit with KSU and Bahagian
Pembangunan Industri (BPI) Team to Meet Tan
Sri William on Antara Steel HBI Plant Issues
On 18th February 2021, Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali, Ketua
Setiausaha, Ministry of International Trade and Industry(MITI), MITI Officer, Malaysian Investment Development
Authority (MIDA) and Malaysia Steel Institute (MSI) visited
Lion Group to discuss on the Oriental Shield project
development at Banting. This courtesy visit also discussed
on the Banting Industrial Park development and othersteel related matters.

Courtesy Visit toEstablished Metal Industries Sdn Bhd
On 25th February 2021, the Chief Executive Officer
of Malaysia Steel Institute visited Established Metal
Industries Sdn Bhd (EMI) located at Serendah, Rawang.
The purpose of this courtesy visit was to discuss on EMI’s
narrow strip project development at Rawang Plant.

Mesyuarat Penyelarasan
Peneraju Industri Bil.1/2021

Aktiviti

Badan

This meeting was held on 5th February 2021 via Google
Meet. The objective of this meeting is to update on the
new Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran (JPK) initiatives,
such as: Sistem Latihan Dual Nasional (SLDN) (plus),tendering of national occupational skills standard projectand occupational framework (of) and promotion of Sijil
Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM) through social media.

SESI Hands on Sistem My Project
Sesi Hands on MyProjek with the Implementation
Coordination Unit (ICU), Jabatan Perdana Menteri washeld on 10th February 2021. This session aimed to provide
exposure and understanding to agency representativeand MITI Division on the use of MyProjek System inmonitoring the implementation of development
Projects that have been approved under the Malaysia
Twelfth Plan (RMK12).

40

MSI WITH YOU

June 2021 | Issue 1

Majlis Perhimpunan Warga Miti Bersama yang Terhormat Menteri Kanan Kementerian
Perdagangan Antarabangsa dan Industri
This gathering was held on 10th March 2021. This is a friendly session for MITI and agencies together with the Senior
Minister to celebrate the year of MITI under the leadership of YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali. Dato’ Seri Mohamed
Azmin Ali gave the mandate to continue the concerted efforts in reviving the economy. The event continued with therecognition of the Malaysia Book of Records to MITI for hosting the first virtual APEC 2020 in history. The assembly was
conducted in strict compliance with SOPs such as wearing face masks, hand sanitation, social distancing and others.

Town Hall Session “Vision of Common Prosperity”
The Town Hall session was held on 22nd March 2021 at Dewan Bankuasi, Pusat Pentadbiran Negeri Sabah (PKNS), Kota
Kinabalu, Sabah. This session was enlivened by the Prime Minister, YAB Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Muhyddinwith the objective to develop new innovations and advances, especially in the fields of agriculture, manufacturing,
tourism, plantation and health to attract investors to the state of Sabah.

41

MSI With You

June 2021 | Issue 1
Mesyuarat
Bersama
Agensi-Agensi
Berhubung Pelan Komunikasi Pekerjaan
Unit Laksana, Ministry of Finance (MOF)
This meeting was held on 15th February 2021 withthe objective to discuss and formulate effective
communication plan on the current employment
by industry relate on government initiatives throughministries and agencies.

Luncheon Talk with Business/ SME Associations
To strengthen the synergies with industry players in
Sabah, the Ministry of International Trade and Industry(MITI) has met with 70 representatives from Small andMedium Enterprises (SMEs) from various economic
sectors in Sabah on 22nd March 2021. This session has
helped MITI and agencies to obtain feedback frombusiness communities in Sabah to ensure constantimprovements to MITI initiatives. This session was led
by YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, Senior Minister,
Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI).

Launching Ceremony of Lok Kawi Resort City
Project and Memorandum Of Signing Ceremony
For Foreign/ Domestic Investment Initiatives
The ceremony, witnessed by the Prime Minister of Malaysia
was held on 22nd March 2021 at the Sipadan Hall, Sabah
International Convention Centre (SICC), Kota Kinabalu.
The ceremony aims to promote Sabah as a leader incooper foil for electric vehicles (EVs). Kota Kinabalu will be
the first new factory to be located outside of Korea withhopes to create 5,000 new job opportunities. The event
was also joined by YBHG Mr Jarrod Lim, Chief Executive
Officer of Malaysia Steel Institute.

Sabah State Government Appreciation Dinner tothe Ministry of International Trade and Industry inConjunction with Investment Initiatives by Sk Nexilis
The Sabah state government has organised an appreciation
dinner to MITI and agencies on the night of 22nd March 2021
in conjunction with the signing of SK Nexilis Investment
Initiative. The Prime Minister and the federal government
has implemented several mandates and initiatives forthe people of Sabah which focuses on the developmentof the State of Sabah. The main focus of this event is toattract quality investment and create more employment
opportunities for Sabahans.

42

MSI WITH YOU

June 2021 | Issue 1

Courtesy Visit to Alliance Steel (M) Sdn Bhd in Kuantan, Pahang
On 15th March 2021, Dato’ Sri Norazman Ayob, Deputy Secretary General (Industry), Ministry of International Tradeand Industry (MITI), had initiated a visit to Alliance Steel (M) Sdn Bhd at Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park
(MCKIP). The visit was also participated by Mr. Jarrod Lim, CEO of MSI, Mr. Lee Meng Tat, Director of MITI Pahang and
Ms. Noraisyah Nordin, Director of MIDA Pahang. The Alliance Steel Expansion project will contribute to a potential
investment of RM5 billion and creation of 3,000 job opportunities.

Rapat Malaysia Prihatin
The federal government understands the current difficulties and challenges faced by fellow Malaysians following
the COVID-19 pandemic. Following that, the government has introduced the policy of “Prihatin Rakyat” as the main
guiding principle in defending the destiny and prioritizing the welfare of the people. Under this policy, the government
has provided various initiatives and strategies towards economic prosperity and recovery.
In this regard, the Selangor State Development Office (PPN) together with the Ministry of International Trade andIndustry (MITI) has taken the initiative to implement the Rapat Malaysia Prihatin program involving all heads offederal and state departments/agencies to share information and explain the initiatives and assistance introduced by
the government more accurately and clearly.
The program was held on 26th March, 2021 at the Concorde Hotel, Shah Alam with a keynote address by YB Dato’ Seri
Mohamed Azmin bin Ali, Senior Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI).

43

MSI With You

June 2021 | Issue 1
Stimulus Package Incentive Meeting
On 6th March 2021, a special incentive for Iron and Steel
Industry was proposed to the Ministry of Finance (MOF)from MSI. The meeting was led by Dato’ Sri Norazman
Ayob, Deputy Secretary General (Industry), MITI and
attended by representatives from MITI and agencies.
The accepted proposals will be announced in the Special
Stimulus Package to cushion the impact of COVID-19
pandemic to the industry.

Majlis Amanat Perdana Setahun Malaysia Prihatin
The Majlis Amanat Perdana Setahun Malaysia Prihatin
was held on 1st March 2021 at Dewan Perdana, Ministryof International Trade and Industry (MITI). This platform
is to honour the achievement of Perikatan Nasional
government lead by YAB Prime Minister. It further
outlines the commitment and way forward of Perikatan
Nasional government.

The Way Forward for the Ship Building & Ship
Repair (SBSR) Industry Meeting
This meeting was held on 2nd March 2021. The purpose ofthis meeting was to discuss on the way forward for theship building & ship repair (SBSR) industry. The meeting
also discussed on the issues and challenges as well as
proposal on the industrial development by Association ofMarine Industries of Malaysia (AMIM).

Meeting Between Malaysia Iron and Steel Industry
Federation (MISIF) & Malaysia Steel Association(MSA) and Sirim Qas International Sdn Bhd
On 9th March 2021, MSI has been invited to join themeeting between Malaysia Iron and Steel Industry
Federation (MISIF) & Malaysia Steel Association (MSA)and SIRIM QAS International Sdn. Bhd. The objective of
the meeting is to provide feedback on the implemented
Guidelines on the Importation and Inspection of Metal Scrap.

44

MSI WITH YOU

June 2021 | Issue 1

Covid-19 Test Promotion
Session 1
On 2nd March 2021, MSI organised a Covid-19 Test
Promotion (Session 1) via Zoom. This session waspresented by Jack Chan from Prova Lab and participatedby few MSI members such as CSC Steel Holdings Sdn Bhd,
Bahru Stainless Sdn Bhd, Ann Joo Steel Berhad and NS
Bluescope Malaysia Sdn Bhd. The objective of this session
was to promote Covid-19 testing to the steel companies.
Companies who have registered the test through MSI will
be given a promo code to get the offer price.
Session 2
On 10th March 2021, MSI organised a Covid-19 Test
Promotion (Session 2) via Zoom. This session wasparticipated by few MSI members such as Amsteel MillsSdn Bhd, Southern Steel Berhad, Malaysia Steel Works
Bhd, Kiswire Cord Sdn Bhd, Steel Wire Association of
Malaysia (SWAM), Mycron Steel CRC Sdn Bhd and Modern
Integration Technology Sdn Bhd (MITEC). The objective of
this session was to promote Covid-19 testing to the steel
companies. Interested companies who have registered
the test through MSI will be given a promo code to get
the offer price.

Mesyuarat Penyelarasan Insentif
Kemenangan Kepada Pemenang Anugerah
Kecemerlangan Industri (AKI) 2022
This meeting was chaired by YBrs. En Azmir Musyabri
Abdul Mutallib, held at Menara Miti on 16th March 2021.
The meeting discussed on encouraging companies
to perform and improve on its quality and services
moving forward. The winner will receive an Anugerah
Perdana Menteri.

Taklimat Sistem Latihan Nasional (SLDN)On 26th March 2021, Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran
has organized a “Taklimat Sistem Latihan Nasional(SLDN) Badan Peneraju Industri (ILB)” with theobjective to introduce the SLDN programme and theavailable incentive to ILB to promote and encourage
the industry to participate in this programme to train
more skilled workers.

45

MSI With You

June 2021 | Issue 1

Farewell Lunch Session
On 31st March 2021, the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) had organised a farewell lunch session to
Dato’ Azman Mahmud, CEO of MIDA and Prof Ir Dr Ahmad Fadzil, President & Group CEO of SIRIM Berhad. Few guestof honour celebrated the farewell for both individuals to thanked their years of service and contribution towards theirrespective industry.

Prime Minister Tan Sri Dato’ Haji Mahiaddin Bin Haji Md Yassin Meeting with Members of the Industry
On 15th April 2021, the prime minister had a meeting involving the industry leaders, YB Dato’ Mohamed Azmin bin Ali
and YB Datuk Lim Ban Hong to discuss on efforts needed to sharpen the economy. The meeting was held at Dewan
Perdana, MITI Tower. The engagement session also discussed on the collaboration from the public-private sector insupporting job creation efforts for Malaysians who has lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

46

MSI WITH YOU

June 2021 | Issue 1

Appreciation Dinner by YBMK MITI
On 11th April 2021, the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) had organized an appreciation dinner at
Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur Hotel. The appreciation dinner celebrated the retirement of Dato’ Azman Mahmud, Chief
Executive Officer of MIDA, Datuk IR Dr Ahmad Fadzil, President & Group Chief Executive of SIRIM Berhad and Dato’
Wan Latiff Wan Musa, Chief Executive Officer of MATRADE.

Signing Ceremony for MITI & Agencies on Reskilling and Upskilling Programme Under Initiative
In April 2021, Mr Jarrod Lim Keng Yow, CEO of MSI has signed an agreement with Datuk Lokman Hakim Ali, Secretary
General of MITI on implementing the Reskilling and Upskilling Programme. Under the PENJANA Initiative, MSI willtrain 300 skilled workers to work in the Iron and Steel Industry through Programme Enhanced Employability of
Unemployed Workers and New Graduates in the Iron and Steel Industry.

47

MSI With You

June 2021 | Issue 1

Official Launch Of Malaysia Semi Conductor Industry Association
The official launch of Malaysia’s semi-conductor industry association was held on 6th April 2021 at Dorsett Grand
Subang. The event was officiated by YB Senator Datuk Lim Ban Hong, Deputy Minister of Ministry of International
Trade and Industry. The government aims to increase its efforts to enhance the productivity and competitivenessof the electric and electronics (E&E) sector to capitalize on the booming market for semi-conductor. E&E industry is
the key driver for industrial development which has contributed to the gross domestic product (GDP) for the past 50
years. In 2020, the total investment for the E&E sector was valued at RM15.6 billion with a total of 148 projects.

Covid-19 Test Briefing Sessions
On 7th April 2021, Malaysia Steel Institute(MSI) is collaborating with Prova Lab Sdn
Bhd to offer a COVID-19 tests at competitive
prices to industry players using online
registration and reporting system. The
objective of the initiative is to manage
the pandemic at the workplace more
effectively and efficiently. Two sessions wereconducted to the Federation of Malaysia
Hardware, Machinery & Building Materials
Dealers’ Association (FMHMBA) and Steel
Wire Associations Malaysia (SWAM). The
session was attended by committee
members and members of the associations
as they supported the initiative by MSI.

48

MSI WITH YOU

June 2021 | Issue 1

Iftar Perdana Miti Dan Agensi Sempena
Ramadhan 2021
On 20th April 2021, the Ministry of International Tradeand Industry (MITI) had organized the Iftar Perdana MITI
dan Agensi Sempena Ramadhan 2021. The event beganwith knowledge sharing on Al-Quran which is “My QuranTime” followed by breaking the fast with iftar and Maghrib
prayers. YB Minister of MITI gave a speech, donations to
Pertubuhan Kebajikan Anak-anak Yatim/ Tahfiz, Isya
Prayer and tarawih. The event ended at 10.00 PM.

Malaysia Steel Association (MSA) Appreciation NightOn 22nd April 2021, the CEO of MSI attended a dinner organised by the Malaysia Steel Association (MSA) and Malaysian
Iron and Steel Industry Federation (MISIF) held at Chuai Heng Banquet Hall, Kl. The dinner was rendered by the
Malaysian Government and other Umbrella Associations such as MITI, FMM and Chinese Chamber for collectively
assisting in the restart of the industrial activities during the MCO and their contribution towards the progress of the
Malaysian Steel Industry.

Lili’s Farewell
On 12 April 2021, MSI had organized afarewell lunch at The Social, Publika for Lilias an appreciation for her contribution anddedication during her two-year tenure at MSI.
MSI wishing her all the best in the future.
th49

MSI BRIDGING GAPS

June 2021 | Issue 1

Webinar: Asia Rising -How Will Asia’s Expanding Influence Impact Us Foreign Policy?
The webinar was hosted by South China Morning Post (SCMP), Hong Kong and sponsored by the Asia School ofBusiness on 8th February 2021. The objective of this webinar is to engage in discussions on the outlook on possible
shifts in US foreign policy towards the China post- Trump era. In the webinar, three expert panellists provided theirviews moderated by Ms Zuraidah Ibrahim, Deputy Executive Editor South China Morning Post. The main points
discussed (including pre-webinar questions) are as follows:(i)

The Biden led US has already indicated rebuilding relations particularly with Asia and Indo-Pacificregions, besides other region such as Middle East post-Trump era:
• The announcements showing a more orderly traditional policy communication but we need to
wait and see this in practice/implementation.
(ii) On China’s more dominant exertion of power both economically (e.g. Australia) and militarily in theSouth China Sea and Himalayan area, what would be the best approach that the US could take:• The Panellist viewed that the approach could be a combination of Trump’s hard-headed
approach could probably lead to open channels to discuss way forward on difficult areas; and at
the same time view that that a pure confrontational approach on China might work in narrowing
their differences; and• Another approach could be for both sides to start conversations on areas of common interest
such as assisting to contain Corona Virus Pandemic and addressing climate change as a steppingstone to discussing more difficult areas.
(iv) On economic influence, especially the Chinese Belt & Road Initiative (BRI), it was felt that the BRI is
not sustainable in the long-term financially and at the same time noted that the BRI has brought
about both good and poor outcomes. Further, China has learnt from the poor deals and is moving
towards a market based viable approach. The US private sector on the other hand is not into doing
construction project-based initiatives, but could take the form of providing syndicated finance ofsuch projects to counter balance the BRI.
(v) On Australia – China trade conflict the panellists viewed that Australia had taken an overcomplacency approach to extreme reactions on trade with China. Viewed that both sides will cometo senses to reach middle-grounds and trade will be dictated by the businesses and they will go forwin-win situation rather than confrontational – as China is already doing on imports of copper from Australia.

(vi) On the US Dollar losing its position as the main traded currency, one of the panellists did not think
this will happen due to currently no other attractive alternative is available, unless the US continues
printing US dollars and world decide otherwise; and secondly, even though with the corona virus
pandemic presently affecting global trade, the volume of trade is still high and the US dollar is still
highly used.

50

MSI BRIDGING GAPS

June 2021 | Issue 1

Industry Engagement Series with Industry
Lead Body (ILB)
This Industry Engagement Series with Industry Lead
Body (ILB) is hosted by the Institute for Youth Research
Malaysia (IYRES) on 25th February 2021. Some of the areas
discussed were:- How TVET can fulfill the industry;- Recommendation of TVET deliveries and future jobthat match; and- IR4.0 - elements to incorporate to upskilling
and reskilling.

Sirim Business Growth Seminar – Malaysia in
Covid: Economic Challenges and Way Forward
This seminar was held on 18th March 2021 throughMicrosoft team platform. The objectives of this seminar is:
I. To understand the impact of covid-19 on theeconomy and government mitigation initiatives
II. To identify opportunities and challenges in the
manufacturing sections, and other emerging
sections triggered by covid-19
III. To understand the challenges faced by the industry
and essential assistance for business continuity
and sustainability.

Invitation to National Conference on Behavioural
Insights 2021
On 23rd March 2021, a National Conference on Behavioural
Insights 2021 was organised by MPC and participated by
MSI. The opening ceremony was officiated by YBHG. Tan
Sri Mohd Zuki Bin Ali, Chief Secretary to the Governmentof Malaysia with the theme: Spearheading Efficient PublicService Delivery. The seminar aims to create awareness,
operate productively to reduce unnecessary burden.
Behavioural Insights touched on empirical findings abouthuman behaviour to make public policy more effective.

Discovering Hong Kong’s Steel Industry & Asia’s
Innnovative Solution For Construction Challenges
On 25th March 2021, Informa Markets had organised theirfirst Webinar series, titled “Discovering Hong Kong Steel
Industry & Asia’s Innovative Solution for Construction
Challenges” which was participated by MSI. The purposeof this webinar is to explore Asia’s robust steel industry
with highlights on the Hong Kong’s experience and to getinsights on the industry’s latest innovative technologies
and unique solutions to deal with challenges.

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June 2021 | Issue 1

Greening Asean: Towards Green Recovery in Asean Post-Pandemic
On 24th May 2021, the ASEAN Business Advisory Council and ASEAN Business Advisory Council Malaysia organized awebinar titled “Greening ASEAN: Towards Green Recovery in ASEAN Post-Pandemic”. The webinar aims to address thecurrent and emerging trends and issues faced by the industry and regional governments in recovering from the global
pandemic. The forum began with a presentation by Hon. Dato Seri Paduka Dr Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy (bottom right corner), Brunei to discuss on the economic developments in
Brunei. This was followed by a paper presentation by Ms Jukhee Hong, Executive Director, CARI ASEAN Research andAdvocacy (bottom middle) to discuss on ASEAN’s stimulus packages (fiscal policy responses) in 2020 for the recovery
from COVID-19 pandemic. This was followed by a presentation by Ms. Duangjai Asawachintachit - Secretary-Generalof the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) (upper bottom) towards the adoption of green economies in Thailand. Dr.
San Oo - Chair of ASEAN Senior Officials on Environment (ASOEN) – Myanmar Chair (bottom left) discussed on ASEAN
at the regional level which includes participation from private sector/NGOs and government sector participation
in Myanmar. Mr. Cedric Rimaud - Corporate Bonds and Green Finance Specialist, Climate Bond Initiative (FundManagement) (Top left) presented on the green market for bonds. Other areas discussed were free trade agreement(FTAs), the effects of Covid-19 towards green support and an opportunity for green investment.

The Launching of Productivity Report
2021 & Productivity Forum
On 30th June 2021, YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed
Azmin Ali officially launched the “Productivity
report 2021 & productivity forum” through avirtual session which was attended by MSI.
This year’s report highlighted the snapshots ofissues and challenges and the improvement
initiatives to enhance national productivity.

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June 2021 | Issue 1

Online Discussion with Laksana on Reporting
Requirements for Reskilling & Upskilling
Penjana Programme
MITI chaired the Online Discussion with LAKSANA on
Reporting Requirements for Reskilling & Upskilling
PENJANA Programme on 18th January 2021. The
objective is to ensure clear understanding on
what is expected in monitoring and reporting for
implementation of programmes by implementation
agency. MSI had presented our feedbacks to
LAKSANA and sought clarification from LAKSANA
on job placement implementation related to
MSI’s programme i.e. Enhanced Employability of
Unemployed Workers and New Graduates in The Iron
and Steel Industry.

Rolling Plan 2 Years 2022 Project
Application Preparation Workshop
Day 1 (10th February 2021)
The first day of this workshop was hosted by MITI and
Economic Planning Unit (EPU). The objective of thisworkshop is to provide an understanding and exposure
to officials from MITI and agencies on the requirements
to prepare a project proposal under RMK-12. Methods
to perform valuation using Logical Framework Matrix
and Creativity Index to evaluate the benefits have beentaught in the Bengkel. MSI plans to submit several
Development proposals to which will be Iron and Steelindustry.

Day 2 (11th February 2021)
The second day of Rolling Plan 2 Year 2022 Project
Application Preparation Workshop for the Public Sector
Comparator slot is with the Economic Planning Unit
(Value Management Section) and prime minister’s
Department (EPU, JPM). The objective of this workshop
is to provide an understanding and exposure to
officials from MITI and agencies on the Public Sector
Comparator (PSC).

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June 2021 | Issue 1

The Taklimat Permohonan Projek/ Program
Rolling Plan 2
The Taklimat Permohonan Projek/Program Rolling Plan
2, organized by MITI’s Finance Division was held on 25th
February 2021. The objective of the briefing is to provide
understanding and exposure on the requirements to
prepare the project application under Rolling Plan 2(2022).

“Pelaksanaan Sistem Jaminan Kualiti Tunggal Tvet:
Pendaftaran Occupational/ Industry Standards And
Practices (OISP) Dalam Daftar OISP”
This virtual briefing was held on 9th March 2021. The
registration of OISP is an important component in theimplementation of tvet quality assurance system whichis expected to:1) Provide significant and systematic involvementfrom the industry in producing trainees and skilled
manpower in Malaysia.
2) Contribute improvement in productivity and qualityof products and services.

Bengkel Profiling Kemahiran Pekerja Malaysia
Jabatan Pembangunan Kemahiran (JPK) has organizeda Bengkel Profiling Kemahiran Pekerja Malaysia from23rd-24th March 2021. The objective of the workshop is toget feedback from ILB, workers and training provider
on database system that will be developed by JPK. The
database aims to identify gap competency among
workers, determine the best-suit training to reduce thegap and to establish networking among ILB, training
provider and workers.

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June 2021 | Issue 1

Mesyuarat Penyelarasan Pemetaan Noss
Bagi Tujuan Pentauliahan
A meeting on mesyuarat penyelarasan
pemetaan noss bagi tujuan pentauliahan
was attended by MSI on 16 June 2021 throughzoom meeting. The objective of this meetingis to share the mapping process of the existing
NOSS with the programmes under agencies inorder to be recognized by JPK.

Seaisi 50th Anniversary E-Conference &Exhibition @ 2021
The South East Asia Iron and Steel Institute (SEAISI)
had organized an e-conference from 17 June 2021
until 22 June 2021 with the theme: ASEAN & Regional
Markets. Innovative Technologies Post COVID-19. MSI
participated the 4- day programme to gain insighton the steel industry in ASEAN, which has undergone
profound changes in 2020. Due to the Covid-19
pandemic, the demand for steel has dropped by morethan 15%. The steel industry in the region needs tolearn and adopt to the new normal. The e-conference
provided an insight on the potential importers andexporters of steel, post covid-19 situation in China,
India and advanced countries, trade developments
in ASEAN and China. Participants were also briefed
on the strategies and selections for steel products,
applications and the best plant management and the
supply chain, adoption on digitalization for technology
development and the best technology to provide
solution on environmental and energy sustainability.

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