Sunthar Supparmaniam, Credence’s Vice President of Supplier & Application Modernisation, shares how manufacturers can gain greater visibility across their supply chains for better efficiency.

At TM One’s LEAP Forward Manufacturing 2022, enterprises that are keen to fast-track their transformation learned more about virtualised cloud-based services, how to leverage digital networks to modernise legacy processes, accelerate workflow efficiency, and improve their cybersecurity.

Sunthar Supparmaniam from Credence, TM’s cloud and digital services entity, shed some light on Credence’s supplier and distributor management solution to help manufacturers gain wider visibility across their supply chains. This article summarises the highlights from his talk.

Introducing Credence to the World

Launched in July 2022, Credence is a new cloud and digital services provider powered by TM Group. Leveraging strategic partnerships with the world’s leading service providers such as AWS, SAP, and Oracle, Credence opens up a global talent pool of domain and tech experts, delivering a new breed of digital transformation solutions for Malaysia.

Credence provides specialised market offerings within cloud, SaaS, analytics, digital upskilling, and managed services with a focus on crafting curated solutions for industries such as manufacturing, energy, healthcare, BFSI and the public sector.

Through its diversified portfolio, Credence aims to accelerate Malaysia’s digital transformation process by helping businesses understand their unique technology landscape and provide solutions to suit each business priority.

With the added value of highlighting risks and rewards through advisory and delivery services, Credence offers the right guidance coupled with targeted solutions tailored to each business challenge.

Partnering with Arteria to transform Malaysia’s manufacturing industry

In building the right solution for Malaysian manufacturers, Credence has struck a country exclusive partnership with leading supply chain management and fintech player, Arteria, enabling access to its’ extended financial supply chain platform – FinessArt. 

“FinessArt enables real-time collaboration which extends the power of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) to suppliers, transporters, sub-contractors, warehouses, sales teams, and multi-tier distribution networks,” Sunthar shared during his presentation.

“By digitalising business requirements from procurement to distribution, FinessArt allows full and complete visibility of supply chains and drives data-driven decision making to the next level.”

FinessArt to Enable Greater Supply Chain Visibility

Through FinessArt’s digitalisation solutions and full visibility to supply chain management, Credence is enabling the next step of modernisation in the manufacturing industry’s end-to-end processes. Built on existing SAP platforms, the expansion of an ERP solution designed to target and integrate every aspect of the supply chain journey will create more opportunities for a variety of functions available for manufacturing principals.

As noted by Sunthar, the Core ERP functions that SAP platforms currently provide covers a range of services such as Core Finance, Material Management, Financial Supply Chain, along with Sales and Distribution – tools that are essential for a principal manufacturer’s visualisation of their current supply chain. The addition of FinessArt to the SAP platform allows the integration of further management tools beyond core ERP functions, allowing them to tap into Upstream, Downstream, Banking, and Logistics management functionalities and data. The introduction of these functions of FinessArt are roughly grouped into three distinct target areas, run by the SupplierPortal, DealerConnect, and DigitalBanking branches, aimed at providing visual coverage over the entire supply chain journey concerning manufacturing principals.

By identifying these target areas for principals and increasing supply chain visibility, the integration of FinessArt allows engagement with suppliers and provides data-driven analytics and data-backed evidence to continually improve supply chain efficiency.

Key Features of FinessArt’s DealerConnect and SupplierPortal Platform

What is in DealerConnect?

FinessArt’s DealerConnect allows principals to connect seamlessly with its distribution network, from primary sales with distributors to tertiary sales with retailers. After a successful onboarding with distributors, manufacturing principals will access a host of automated functions and data available at their disposal to manage and track the progress of anything related to their products.

FinessArt’s order management system has the following capabilities: 

• Create and track electronic orders, claims and returns.
• Management of order documents for PO, invoices and goods’ receipts.
• Generates integrated dashboards and reports to help track overdue and incoming shipments, stock movements and order status.

These processes allow for dealers to focus on product selling through targetted planning and dealer FOS management. These functions, accompanied by streamlining financing with dealers, also allow better visibility backed by data-driven reports to better capture the efficiency and effectiveness of each process. By reducing turnaround time with faster collection and automated processing, principals can identify key target areas to boost demand. This is done through the provision of information and insights generated by the integrated reporting and order management system.

FinessArt also extends its visibility range to secondary and tertiary sales with retailers through its network management capabilities. After onboarding retailers on to the platform, the data available to principals will allow them to take control of the FOS, by enabling:

• Geo-tagging outlets’ performance.
• Tracking regulatory forms, permits, and inventory.
• Expediting of route planning, invoicing and fulfilment, and secondary schemes and returns.

The ability to extend the expedition of resource flow throughout the distribution network via the use of insights and information generated from distributors’ systems can help manufacturing principals focus on building demand for customers. Information and insights generated from the full visibility gained can help them understand what is missing, how to improve their business processes, and the peak periods or trends when they should boost sales.

What is in SupplierPortal?

FinessArt’s SupplierPortal features integrate the upstream network of supplier management. These features allow manufacturing principals to:

• Directly meet and track their sources of production.
• Track specific data and performance of suppliers, enabling them to compare sourcing, shipment, quality, stocks, and finance, creating a reverse auction effect.
• Increase spending management efficiency through analytics, along with a PO history and schedule to gauge reliability.
• Create advance shipment notifications and invoice uploads paired with supplier performance and rating to expedite a faster turnaround.
• Efficiently scale up or scale down business processes to meet demands.
• Allow efficient tracking and options for manufacturing principals through an integrated report and dashboard viewing page, similar to DealerConnect

By synthesising the features and benefits generated from DealerConnect and SupplierPortal, FinessArt provides a one-stop platform that offers full visibility and functionality to manufacturing principals in their entire distribution network and their supplier relations.

Why This Matters to Manufacturing Principals

Integrating FinessArt on existing SAP Business Technology Platforms (BTP) allows for complete integration with SAP suppliers and dealers. This cloud-based platform is able to store and transmit data across different manufacturers, providing information and insights on the onboarded and integrated suppliers and dealers within the distribution network.

By being fully integrated on a cloud-based platform, FinessArt is able to merge the SAP UI5 as the front end with the SAP Cloud Connector to backend SAP ERP while also providing the opportunity to secure real-time calls with embedded firewalls in place. Through its operation on a role-based access system with authentication using the SAP Cloud Identity Provider, FinessArt can provide ease of access by operating remotely and on-demand. 

With Arteria’s vast network of over 400 satisfied customers across verticals spanning varying industries, Credence and FinessArt’s platform will be able to connect over a million supply chains and channel entities. This could potentially generate upwards of USD 43 billion in commerce. This offering to modernise a manufacturing principal’s supply chain from end to end by owning, manipulating, and monetising current data presents a dynamic opportunity for them to continually expand their business process efficiency and target growth through data-driven analytics. A full view of the distribution network with complete integration with SAP suppliers and dealers could continually open opportunities for manufacturers to diversify revenue streams such as financing credit loans, among others.

Credence is positioned to offer customers localised advisory capabilities and the best returns on their technology investment. It provides organisations the ability to embark on their digital journey with greater predictability, lesser concerns and disruption while choosing the best tech solutions that suit their needs and priorities, allowing them to focus on their core business.

Find out how your organisation will benefit from Credence’s localised advisory capabilities, especially in digitising your supply chain. visit www.credence.tech

Kuala Lumpur, 20 June 2023 – In collaboration with TM One, the enterprise and Government sector solutions arm of TM, ParkCity Medical Centre (PMC), a multidisciplinary hospital under Ramsay Sime Darby Health Care (RSDH) is proud to announce the launch of i-Kiddo Ward with smart patient suite features. It aims to offer high-quality services and ensure a better overall experience for patients and their families. This is one of PMC’s digitalisation initiatives that leverages digital healthcare solutions to revolutionise patient care experiences.

The i-Kiddo Ward is PMC’s new paediatric ward equipped with cutting-edge room capabilities, driven by Internet of Things (IoT) technology for automation and surround control. It is designed to enhance patient comfort, streamline nursing care activities and provide convenience to parents and caregivers.

Each of the 35 rooms within the i-Kiddo Ward creates a home-like environment within the hospital setting, allowing patients to customise their in-patient environment. Patients can effortlessly control lighting, air conditioning, curtains and reduce the need for assistance from nursing staff through user-friendly interfaces. These innovative features enhance the patients’ experience and support parents in ensuring their children’s utmost comfort and well-being throughout their hospital stay.

“In collaboration with TM One, we take great pride in being the first hospital to leverage their Smart Patient Suite Solution in our innovative i-Kiddo Ward. By embracing digital technologies, we are revolutionising the way patients and their families experience healthcare within our hospital. This has marked a significant milestone in our digitalisation journey,” said Mr. Peter S. Kasinathan, CEO of ParkCity Medical Centre.

“We are excited to partner with Ramsay Sime Darby Health Care in launching our first Smart Patient Suite. This innovative solution will provide an enhanced patient-centric care experience that puts the patient at the centre of their health journey. By integrating IoT, AI, and digitalisation, RSDH is at the forefront of healthcare innovation. This collaboration will revolutionise patient care and improve in-patient experience through the latest technology. We’re proud to play a role in shaping the future of the nation’s future healthcare,” said Shazurawati Abd Karim, Executive Vice President, TM One.

As part of its ongoing digitalisation efforts, PMC has implemented a smart queue system for outpatient services, ensuring seamless and efficient patient flow. A smart car parking system utilising car number plate recognition has also been recently introduced. Looking ahead, the hospital has several other digital healthcare initiatives in the pipeline, including an innovative ward that enables patients to use bedside terminals for ordering meals, monitoring medication and accessing personal treatment information.

Peter Hong, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ramsay Sime Darby Health Care (RSDH) said, “We are proud of our collective efforts in driving digitalisation, and it exemplifies our commitment to leveraging technology for enhanced patient care. Through the collaboration with TM One, we aim to harness the power of digitalisation to create a seamless healthcare ecosystem, providing more personalised and patient-centred services to our community, ultimately shaping a brighter and smarter future for healthcare together.”

For more information on PMC and its services, visit https://parkcitymedicalcentre.com/

• Installed 233 PoPs under phase 1 with 100% completion, across northern, Sabah and Sarawak
• Enabled greater digital inclusion and opportunities to all layers of community

Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) has today announced the completion of its new fibre optic network hub or point of presence (PoP) project phase one (1) installations, across northern region, Sabah and Sarawak. The launch ceremony, which was officiated by YB Fahmi Fadzil, Minister of Communications and Digital, took place at SMK Padang Terap, Kuala Nerang, Kedah. Also present were Dato’ Haji Pkharuddin Bin Haji Ghazali, Director-General of Education and Dato’ Sri Haji Mohammad Bin Mentek, Secretary-General, Ministry of Communications and Digital.

PoP is a place where different devices connect to each other and to the internet. In simple terms, PoP brings fibre closer to users. By setting up PoP locations near schools, people in rural and remote areas can get better and faster internet services in their homes, instead of relying on mobile internet. This will improve internet access and connectivity for more people in the community.

During the ceremony, YB Fahmi highlighted the significant benefits and opportunities that the new PoPs would bring. The new PoPs represent a major step forward in the Government’s efforts to narrow the digital gap and promote digital inclusion across Malaysia.

A total of 4,370 PoPs had been planned under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) where 4,323 PoPs will be installed near rural schools and 47 PoPs near industrial area. Phase one (1) of the project, involves 677 sites and the remaining will be implemented under phase two (2) over the span of three (3) years, 2022-2025. A total of 233 PoP circuits were installed under phase 1, with 100% completion achieved by TM, ahead of other industry players.

“We are thrilled to see the progress and achievements of this project, which will bring significant benefits and opportunities to the community, including improved internet quality, economic development and the development of new infrastructures,” said Shazurawati Abdul Karim, Executive Vice President of TM One.

PoP will create a more balanced and inclusive regional development, boosting the growth of new technologies like 5G and future generations of communication technologies. Through this initiative, users in TM’s PoP area have now reached over 9,000 and are increasing. A total of 58 of its users are schools that have subscribed to Unifi services. The widespread internet accessibility will not only help to develop the rural economy but more importantly allow learning materials to be downloaded, to improve the quality of education in schools, equipping the future generations with a wealth of knowledge.

“As the nation’s telecommunications leader, and enabler of Digital Malaysia, TM is committed to support the nation’s development agenda through the benefits brought by hyperconnectivity and digital solutions, which will accelerate digital adoption and new economic growth,” added Shazurawati.

“The presence of PoP can attract technology companies, start-ups and other businesses that require a high-speed internet connection to operate. This can create more job opportunities, increase innovation, and stimulate economic growth in local communities,” concluded Shazurawati.

The collaboration between TM and the Government demonstrates the shared commitment to deliver digital inclusivity throughout Malaysia. For phase two (2) of PoP project, TM has been awarded with 174 sites in the central region. This phase is expected to further boost digital connectivity and economic development for Malaysia.

• Integration of TM’s robust and secure digital infrastructure for fixed and wireless connectivity and smart solutions will position SSIP as one of the leading industrial parks in Selangor to implement end-to-end digitisation across facilities
• Smart solutions for businesses, industries, residences and community with advanced analytics to deliver a smarter and more efficient city for a greener Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, 9 AUGUST 2022 – NCT Group of Companies (NCT) and Telekom Malaysia Berhad (TM) through its enterprise and public sector business solution arm, TM One, have today signed a Collaboration Agreement for the integration of end-to-end digital solutions for NCT’s landmark Selangor Smart Industrial Park (SSIP).

The collaboration is aligned with NCT’s aspirations to establish dynamic and future-ready property developments while redefining Malaysia’s industrial park concept, with SSIP on track to become the first Managed Industrial Park (MIP) certified park in Malaysia.

Powered by TM’s robust and secured digital infrastructure for both fixed and wireless connectivity, as well as digital solutions including Smart Services, ICT Solutions, Cloud and Cybersecurity Services, among others, SSIP will offer a differentiated experience with the latest in smart innovations – becoming one the leading developments in Malaysia to effectively implement end-to-end digitisation across all its facilities that will enable more efficient, modern and sustainable operations.

In addition to the digitalisation of business and residential facilities, SSIP will also include an AI-managed centralised employee quarters complete with smart surveillance, supporting NCT’s close to 10,000 workforce more efficiently, in a safer and secured environment. It will also house a Smart Wellness Centre leveraging on TM One’s end-to-end comprehensive digital solutions.

SSIP will reflect NCT’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) aspiration and decarbonisation goals, with plans for 1,000 units of solar-ready factories and warehouses. Coupled with TM’s Smart Service solutions such as Smart Surveillance, Smart Street Light, Smart Building, Smart Premise, Smart Parking and Smart Community, this will also factor into creating a comfortable and greener ecosystem in SSIP.\

Dato’ Sri Yap Ngan Choy, Group Managing Director of NCT said “It is a privilege to work alongside TM to ensure full suite of connectivity to power our SSIP. The role of TM is crucial in providing the groundwork and framework to realise our vision of creating a fully integrated end-to-end digital solution for our clients. With the development and application of advanced technology, we aim to set a new benchmark to transform the design of industrial parks in the country while playing an active role in advancing Malaysia’s digital aspirations. Coupled with the immense economic potential, SSIP will continue to enhance Selangor’s position as the top investment destination in the country.”

Shazurawati Abd Karim, TM One’s Executive Vice President shared, “We are excited to embark on this alliance with NCT and to support their aspirations to establish a smart, efficient, resilient and sustainable industrial park – one that will redefine the digitalisation of property developments in Malaysia.”

“Aligning with TM’s mission to become a human-centred technology company, our comprehensive solutions from connectivity to smart services and digital innovations will advance the quality and efficiency of businesses and residents within SSIP – taking transformation forward for future communities,” she concluded.  

For further information on TM One, visit www.tm.com.my/tmone

Recognised for extensive capabilities and resources to address cybersecurity gaps among organisations and support data protection efforts in the evolving digital space

TM One, the enterprise and government sector solutions arm of Telekom Malaysia Berhad (“TM”), was named the Frost & Sullivan Malaysian Cybersecurity Services Company of the Year for 2022.

The award was decided based on a series of detailed evaluations following Frost & Sullivan’s best practices criteria, in which TM One excelled as a service partner in addressing Malaysia’s enterprise and government sector cybersecurity needs.

“TM One is recognized based on its extensive cybersecurity capabilities and resources. With a full suite of cybersecurity services and infrastructure, coupled with a deep understanding of the Malaysian market landscape, TM One continuously upholds a strong reputation of effectively addressing its customers’ security needs,” said Anh Tien Vu, Industry Principal, Global Cybersecurity Research Team at Frost & Sullivan.

Shazurawati Abd Karim, Executive Vice President, TM One, said: “We are honoured to receive the Frost & Sullivan Malaysian Cybersecurity Services Company of the Year Award. With cybersecurity emerging as a top priority for organisations in their transformation journey, we are committed to growing our end-to-end solutions so that we can provide our customers digital freedom and peace of mind as they expand their businesses in the digital space. Understanding their unique business needs, we work with organisations to assess their cybersecurity capabilities and provide advisory services through our dedicated TM One Cyber Defense Centre (CYDEC) – helping them make the right choices to respond to cyber threats more effectively.”

Addressing Cybersecurity Gaps among Enterprises and Public Sector

More Malaysian organisations are now investing heavily in cybersecurity. As they become increasingly present and vulnerable in the digital space, organisations need to adopt a stronger security posture in their information technology, operational technology, and cloud infrastructure capabilities.

Shazurawati said, “One of the key challenges for organisations is the shortage of in-house security expertise, professionals, and tools, requiring them to outsource their security operations. By working closely with customers to assess their security posture, technology maturity, and business needs, TM One offers customised solutions for managed security services, consultation and advisory, and other value-added services to help them navigate today’s complex technological landscape.”

TM One is also strengthening the public sector’s cybersecurity, working alongside the Malaysian Government to enhance digital connectivity and smart innovations for cities and industries to propel the nation towards becoming a digital economy. In addition to connectivity, TM One continues to invest in local data centres, digital infrastructure and services, ensuring data sovereignty remains within Malaysian borders while bringing global best practices to the nation’s public sector.

Its investments to strengthen Malaysia’s Critical National Information Infrastructure (CNII) is one of its efforts to protect government and public data, with its cybersecurity solutions developed in compliance with Bank Negara Malaysia’s Risk Management in Technology (RMiT) policy and the Personal Data Protection Act 2010 (PDPA).

Anh Tien Vu said, “One consideration that stood out for Frost and Sullivan was that TM One has earned endorsements and collaborations from local cyber authorities, such as Cybersecurity Malaysia and the National Cyber Security Agency (NACSA) of Malaysia through its implementation of best practices, and world-class infrastructure backed by experts. Frost & Sullivan commends TM One’s steadfast efforts in providing cybersecurity services that exemplify this implementation of best practices, which have benefited customers and communities tremendously.”

“On top of developing our own end-to-end solutions, TM One continues to strengthen its partnership ecosystem, collaborating with companies from various security domains to diversify its offerings and coverage. This includes FNS Value Co. Limited, the sole distributor of its Blockchain Secure Authentication solution in Malaysia, which helps secure digital transactions and online credentials, and Telefónica Tech – a global leader in cybersecurity, Cloud and IoT, as a partner in delivering Digital Risk Protection,” explained Shazurawati.

“Our efforts to expand our cybersecurity services and to provide customers with cutting-edge security reflect our commitment to tackling today’s growing cybersecurity concerns. With next-gen technologies such as 5G opening up both new opportunities and threats, TM One is poised as the enabler for organisations’ next advantage and security, today and tomorrow,” she concluded.