The visionary behind HMLV.ai: How KK Pang transforms Malaysia’s manufacturing landscape

IN THE fast-evolving world of Industry 4.0, few leaders embody the spirit of innovation and resilience like Pang Kiew Kun a.k.a. KK Pang who is the managing director of FSBM Holdings Bhd which had its origin in Fujitsu Systems Business (M) Sdn Bhd.

Known for his strategic foresight and transformative leadership, KK has been at the forefront of re-defining Malaysia’s manufacturing and supply chain landscape through HMLV.ai, an advanced artificial intelligence (AI)-powered customer-to-manufacturer (C2M) platform.

KK’s journey is a masterclass in turning adversity into opportunity. When FSBM faced the daunting challenge of restructuring from a traditional IT company to a dynamic technology-driven solution provider, KK led the charge.

FSBM Holdings Bhd managing director like Pang Kiew Kun

Under his leadership, FSBM not only navigated the Practice Note (PN17) financial distress but also emerged stronger by positioning itself as a strategic solutions provider in smart manufacturing, AI and digital transformation.

His ability to identify market trends early – particularly the shift towards High Mix Low Volume (HMLV) manufacturing – has set FSBM on a path of sustainable growth and innovation.

Revolutionising supply chains with AI

At the heart of KK’s vision is HMLV.ai, a ground-breaking platform developed in collaboration with Synergies Intelligent Systems Inc, a leading US-based AI solutions provider.

HMLV.ai leverages advanced AI algorithms to transform traditional procurement and supply chains into smart, efficient and scalable systems.

It addresses key challenges in the fabricated metal industry by offering instant quotes, smarter supplier matching and enhanced production quality, thus setting a new benchmark for AI-driven smart manufacturing in Southeast Asia.

One of KK’s key ambitions is to contribute to Malaysia’s AI ecosystem by aligning closely with the National AI Office (NAIO)’s mission to drive AI adoption and build a robust AI talent pool.

Through HMLV.ai, KK envisions a platform that not only elevates Malaysia’s manufacturing capabilities but also facilitates knowledge transfer from international partners to local talents.

The platform creates opportunities for Malaysian engineers and manufacturers to gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies, hence able to enhance the nation’s competitiveness on a global stage.

Vision for smart manufacturing hubs

KK’s innovative approach also includes the concept of “lights-off” factories where full automation minimises human intervention.

This vision aligns perfectly with Malaysia’s goal of becoming a regional hub for smart manufacturing by offering significant potential for foreign investments and the establishment of AI-driven production facilities.

His stewardship ensures that HMLV.ai is not merely a tech solution but a catalyst for industry-wide transformation, promoting efficiency, resilience and sustainable growth.

As a thought leader, KK continues to inspire businesses to embrace digital transformation and AI technologies.

His pragmatic approach to solving real-world supply chain issues through HMLV.ai underscores his commitment to advancing Malaysia’s manufacturing sector.

With KK at the helm, FSBM is poised to lead the way in AI-driven smart manufacturing by ensuring that Malaysia is not just keeping up with global trends but setting new standards in the industry.

For Malaysian businesses and manufacturers, HMLV.ai represents more than a technological leap – it is an opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking ecosystem led by a visionary who understands both the challenges and the vast potential of the digital age.

At the close of today’s (March 3) trading, FSBM was unchanged at 21.5 sen with 3.87 million shares traded, thus valuing the company at RM110 mil. – March 3, 2025

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