Hu signs on a plaque to mark the official opening of SSA’s new premises. Looking on at left is Ngieng.
SIBU: Advancement in technology has brought many changes to today’s shipbuilding industry.
Stating this, Sibu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCCI) president Hu Yu Siong said from the first small wooden boat of the past, advancement in technology has today seen the production of high-quality high-tech carriers to multipurpose exploration rig supply ships.
“We have to keep up with the pace of the times to actively explore the latest information on shipbuilding, and keep abreast of the latest management strategies,” he said at the official opening of the Sibu Shipyards Association’s (SSA) newly completed building in Sungai Merah here yesterday.
He said careful management and development over the four decades since its establishment has made Sibu a solid hub of the shipbuilding industry, and has also helped members be elevated to the international arena. It has made Sibu, he elaborated, famous for its shipbuilding, earning foreign exchange for the country, creating numerous jobs and thus promoting economic growth.
“Back in its establishment in 1974, it has only seven members, and now 41 members. Thus, the previous chairmen and executive committee members, relying on intelligence, perseverance and determination, has created a miracle.
“However, we cannot be satisfied, we should have new insights. We should be innovative and adaptable, opening up new spaces to show new vitality to make the association more creative, able to adapt to the trend of the times and meet the members’ needs.”
In his speech earlier, SSA chairman Ngieng Ping Sing said SSA’s new premises could play its unique role to bring cohesion among members.
He said the Rantau Panjang Integrated Ship-building industry zone would further stimulate the shipbuilding industry bringing further economic development.
“This will encourage members to develop healthy competition in the market that is to improve the quality of service, improve the level of the vessel, strengthen workers and safety of the vessels … rather than strengthen the price war within the industry.