Industry 4.0: Current practice and challenges in Malaysian manufacturing firms

This research employed a qualitative approach to discuss the current practice and challenges of Malaysian manufacturing firms in the implementation of Industry 4.0. The study examined data from seven manufacturing companies pursuing Industry 4.0 initiatives to identify various options for their strategies. The study found that the implementation of Industry 4.0 in the manufacturing firms is still in the exploratory stage. The companies involved in this study were discovered to conduct exploration using an adaptive-like framework. That is, throughout the process, the majority of the subjects are 'trying and adding' Industry 4.0 to their operations. Their trial-and-error approach is based on what is feasible and effective in their manufacturing environment. Overall, the investigation determined that data management and integration, as well as personnel re-education, were the respondents' primary operational challenges.