FSBM Holdings Bhd (KL:FSBM) has formed a strategic alliance with Synergies Intelligent Systems Inc and Zhong Yang Technology Co Ltd to introduce a groundbreaking platform aimed at transforming procurement processes in the fabricated metal industry. Through this collaboration, the partners will roll out HMLV.ai, a sophisticated customer-to-manufacturer platform designed to optimize and modernize conventional supply chains within Southeast Asia's fabricated metal sector.

FSBM Holdings Bhd announced on Tuesday that its HMLV.ai platform leverages advanced artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to tackle persistent procurement challenges within the high-mix, low-volume (HMLV) segment of the fabricated metal industry. The platform provides instant quotations for custom metal products, enhancing procurement efficiency by accelerating processes and reducing costs—key concerns for the sector. Initially targeting the fabricated metal industry, there are plans to expand its reach to other key manufacturing segments in the future.

Zhong Yang, an affiliate of Foxconn Global Network Corp—renowned for producing high-precision tools and supplying lenses for Apple products—brings added credibility to the initiative. FSBM stated that this partnership strengthens the platform's ability to meet demand for high-precision, made-to-order components in sectors such as research and development (R&D), new product introduction (NPI), and engineering studies. HMLV parts, though a niche segment, play a crucial role in specialized applications like R&D and NPI within Malaysia's fabricated metal industry. The launch of HMLV.ai aims to streamline procurement and introduce digital solutions to a traditionally fragmented sector.

FSBM highlighted that the move is timely, as Malaysia's fabricated metal products industry presents a substantial market opportunity, contributing around RM18 billion to the country's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2023, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia. FSBM Managing Director Pang Kiew Kun stated, "By integrating AI solutions into HMLV.ai, we aim to revolutionize the entire supply chain in the fabricated metal manufacturing industry—from upstream to downstream—by optimizing part design, procurement, quality, and pricing."

He added that with Malaysia as the operational hub, the company is strategically positioned to cater to the Southeast Asian market, reinforcing its commitment to advancing smart manufacturing and digital transformation as a regional leader. FSBM is currently focused on expanding its IT services division, offering a range of digital solutions, including platform design and development, technical support, maintenance services, cybersecurity, and smart manufacturing solutions. As of Tuesday's market close, FSBM's share price increased by half a sen or 2% to 25.5 sen, giving the company a market capitalization of RM131 million.