THE Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) Penang branch has targeted the completion of its RM6.5 million building by the end of this year.
FMM Penang branch chairman Datuk Dr Ooi Eng Hock said the construction work of the three-storey building was scheduled to complete in nine months.
“The new building, situated on 1.5 acres of land behind its present premises, will house the new administrative office, a training centre and a multipurpose hall. The area will have the capacity to accommodate about 500 people, 110 parking lots and a mini-exhibition hall.
“A research and development (R&D) centre, a spacious and magnificent lobby, drive-thru coffee outlet, solar panel rooftop, 6,000 sq ft of office space for rent, and other amenities will also be set up in the new building,” he said in his speech before taking part in the ground-breaking ceremony in Lebuh Tenggiri 2, Seberang Jaya, today.
Dr Ooi said that STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) activities could be held at the new building when it is ready.
“We also hope to provide more soft skill programmes using our new training rooms,” he said.
Also present were Deputy Chief Minister II Prof Dr P. Ramasamy, state Agriculture, Agro-based Industries, Rural Development and Health Committee chairman Dr Afif Bahardin, Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) secretary Rosnani Mahmod and FMM president Tan Sri Datuk Soh Thian Lai.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, who graced the ceremony, said the new building would serve as a testament to FMM Penang’s journey in the past 50 years and the future.
“As a pivotal trade association, FMM has always been a close partner of the state government and the various agencies and departments under it.
“For decades, the Penang government and FMM have worked together to improve the manufacturing capabilities of our workforce, and to have in place the necessary infrastructure to meet the needs of the various industries.
“Without this synergy, Penang would not be what it is today.
“Therefore, I would like to thank FMM for their contributions over the years and I look forward to many more years of smart partnership, support and collaboration with FMM; so that our local industries can be globally competitive,” Chow said.
Chow and his delegation were treated to a sumptuous lunch before the dialogue session with the industry stakeholders.
On a separate note, Chow urged the local suppliers of face masks and hand sanitisers to prioritise the state and the country.
“Sufficient quantity of face masks and hand sanitisers must be made available for the local market and the people, especially if they are produced here (locally).
“That should be their commitment to the country and to the local people,” he added.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Ahmad Adil Muhamad
Video by Noor Siti Nabilah Noorazis