Malaysia launches NEW TDM Project to digitise tooling sector and boost global competitiveness
Malaysia will roll out the NEW TDM Project next month, aiming to digitise its tool, die and mould industry and raise its international standing.
At a ceremony in Shah Alam, SIRIM Bhd president and group CEO Nik Sazali Nik Hussin unveiled the NEW TDM Project, a next-generation effort to modernise Malaysia's tooling, die and mould (TDM) sector. Aligned with the 13th Malaysia Plan and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, the project will introduce advanced digital engineering technologies such as artificial intelligence and a unified 3DEXPERIENCE platform. It seeks to enhance capabilities from design through production, enabling firms to compete for high-value contracts abroad.
A strong emphasis will be placed on training workers in computer-aided design, manufacturing and engineering. The launch follows the successful TDM 2.0 phase, which saw production capacity rise by up to 88 % and added RM292 million in gross value added in 2024. Organisers hope the new programme will attract more companies to adopt digital transformation and capacity-building measures.
Why it matters
The project could reshape Malaysia's manufacturing base, moving it from assembly to high-tech production.
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