Panel Discussion: Intelligent Manufacturing KL 2025

What an inspiring panel discussion @Intelligent Manufacturing KL! 

We all know leadership is critical in talent development – but after moderating this panel, I realized there’s someone even more important: you.

Yes, YOU.

While organizations play a role, your growth – your talent development – is ultimately your responsibility.

This hit home after witnessing another powerful discussion in Penang recently, brilliantly articulated by Masliza Mansor. [read it here https://lnkd.in/g_HPUEpf]

It is universally recognised that we are now finding it harder to get talent, not just good talent.

The reasons:

1️⃣ The world is changing faster than ever.

2️⃣ Talent isn’t just scarce – it’s evolving.

Companies everywhere are struggling to attract and retain their best people.

Why?

Three seismic shifts:

⚡TECHNOLOGY: AI, automation, and robotics aren’t just tools – they’re redefining what it means to be competitive.

⚡GEO-POLITICS: New alliances, tariffs, and trade dynamics force businesses to adapt just to stay competitive.

⚡WORKFORCE EXPECTATIONS: Gen Z and Alpha aren’t just looking for jobs – they’re demanding purpose, culture, and growth.

A good salary? That’s just a start.

BIG NAME companies – especially well-known multinationals – can easily get the best talent. Every graduate has heard of them, their successes.  And of course, their salaries.

MNCs have long leveraged their reputation to attract top talent.

So what’s the answer?

COMPANIES need to let potential employees know what the company – especially local ones – represent.  What the company does, what’s the company culture, and (then) how their salaries are competitive.

Don’t just rely on AI.

Or your marketing department – that’s to reach out to customers about your products.

You want to attract talent to work for you.

Use human intelligence – listen, inspire, and create workplaces where people feel valued.

Culture, vision, and growth opportunities matter more than ever.

FOR INDIVIDUALS: The panel flipped the script.

YOU are your own leader.

YOUR  communication, curiosity, and adaptability determine your success, your next job.

👍 Speak up with clarity and respect.
👍 Keep learning – the world won’t wait for you.
👍 Own your development like your career depends on it (because it does).

The best talent isn’t just found – it’s built.

IT STARTS WITH YOU.

Intelligent manufacturing isn’t just about machines – it’s about people.

Thank you to the incredible panelists SookLing Teh, Jaszmine K.B., Oscar Low, WANG Xin, Pratibha Kurnool.  What an enlightening discussion.

A big thank you also to Fiona Chiew for the invitation to Intelligent Manufacturing – IMKL

Let’s bring this conversation to Penang next!

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