THE 18 Malaysian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that participated in the Singapore Airshow 2018, held on February 10 and 11, recorded RM14 million in potential sales.

In a statement today, the International Trade and Industry Ministry said the SMEs were part of SME Corp Malaysia’s EPP8: Developing SMEs in the Global Aerospace Manufacturing Industry programme.

“These companies were identified for further development as part of the government’s initiative to expand the local aerospace supply chain.

“Throughout the event, the SMEs participated in business networking meetings with major industry players.”

It said Malaysia had an eventful participation in the airshow, which brought together global aerospace players to network, exhibit and converge new product ideas, and transfer knowledge and training capabilities.

It said Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd signed two memoranda of agreement (MoAs) and two memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with several business partners.

“The MoA with Axis REIT Real Investment Trust is to develop a built-to-suit industrial manufacturing facility for Senior Aerospace UPECA, while the agreement with Skyways Technics is on an expansion plan to develop a new facility at the MRO Centre at Subang Aerotech Park.

“An MoU was inked with the Asian Business Aviation Association to provide crucial industry knowledge to strengthen and make Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport an attractive destination for the aviation business.

“The MoU with MARA Corp focuses on a partnership to facilitate human capital development for KLIA Aeropolis.”

Moving forward, the ministry said, through the National Aerospace Industry Coordinating Office and its agencies, namely the Malaysian Investment Development Authority, Malaysia External Trade Development Corp and SME Corp, it would continue to promote the aerospace ecosystem in partnership with industry players.

“This concerted effort will enable Malaysia to reach the targets set in the Malaysian Aerospace Industry Blueprint, which aims to position Malaysia as the leading aerospace nation in the region and an integral part of the global market by 2030.” – Bernama, February 12, 2018.