
Jagdeep: Digital skills and robotics vital for future workforce | Culture & Lifestyle
PENANG has embarked on adopting robotics and automation technology following a memorandum of understanding signing (MoU) between KUKA Robotic Automation and the state’s science exhibitor – Tech Dome Penang in Komtar.
The MoU will help the state become ready for a tech-driven future, especially since it is part of the state’s own Penang2030 development vision.
Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo who witnessed the MoU signing, said it can advance skills in science, technical, engineering and mathematics, which Penang must master to sustain its role as the leading semiconductor assembly destination in the region.
The MoU was signed by KUKA Southeast Asia chief executive officer Tean Shen Zen and Tech Dome Penang chief executive officer Khoo Boo Wooi.
“By joining hands with Tech Dome Penang, the state’s flagship Science Discovery Centre, we are meaningfully bridging industry and education,” Jagdeep said.
“In today’s era, where digital skills and robotics are no longer optional but essential, partnerships like this are vital to equip our future workforce with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution.”
He also emphasised Penang’s strong foundation in the electrical and electronics manufacturing sector and noted the state’s ongoing efforts to complement this with strategic investments in education and talent development.
As part of the collaboration, KUKA plans to present Tech Dome Penang with an additional robotic arm, complementing the over two-metre-high robotic arm it previously donated.
Khoo shared that since its establishment in 2016, Tech Dome has welcomed 1.3 million student visitors.
Also present at the signing ceremony were J. Philip Vincent, the special adviser (industry) to Jagdeep; Oun Sui Leng, Tech Dome Penang senior marketing and communication manager; and KUKA area sales manager Soo Win Sen. – July 18, 2025.