Collaborative supply chain management of nanotechnology industry in Malaysia

• Main Authors: Mohamed Udin, Zulkifli, Ahmad, Hartini, Zulhumadi, Faisal, Hasnan, Norlena, Jamaludin, Norzalila
• Format: Monograph
• Language: English
• Published: Universiti Utara Malaysia 2011
• Subjects: T Technology (General); TS Manufactures
• Online Access: http://repo.uum.edu.my/7546/1/S.pdf; http://repo.uum.edu.my/7546/; http://lintas.uum.edu.my:8080/elmu/index.jsp?module=webopac-l&action=fullDisplayRetriever.jsp&szMaterialNo=0000774183

Nanotechnology is becoming important in Malaysia and the supply chain management within this promising industry is obviously crucial for ensuring the sustainability of the industry to support the nation‘s economic growth.However, there is a lack of research focus on the supply chain management (SCM) between the industry players, namely the suppliers, research and development centres, and the commercialisation companies.This study examined thecollaborative supply chain management within the nanotechnology industry context, with a more in-depth look into the wafer fabrication industry.Specifically, the research aimed to explore the current state of nanotechnology SCM and collaborative practices in Malaysia, the challenges for SCM in Malaysian nanotechnology, and finally to make recommendations to improve the collaboration within SCM based on specific projects.This study was cross-sectional in nature and used a qualitative approach in order to get a more insightful explanation.The use of triangulation approaches, which were interviews and document analysis, facilitated the research to meet the objectives. The key findings include issues highlighted in i) human resource, specifically on the need of nanotechnology education; ii) infrastructure, namely on the high start-up capital required; iii) organisational capabilities, focusing on the nature of nanotechnology which is equipment dependent; iv) process alignment, relating to involving more key players and champions; and v) collaborative supply chain management, which relies on various sources and technologies.In conclusion, this research identifies that there is a need of more knowledge in the area which can be supported by a solid education system for producing quality and qualified human capital; more political influence and government support for speeding up the process of research, development, and commercialisation of nanotechnology in Malaysia; and more collaborative practices not only through collaborations with industry players within the country and abroad, but also using collaborative techniques, methodology, and applications.Ultimately, these enhancements to the nanotechnology supply chain are for achieving the national interest, organisational interest, and personal interest.