Participants making a stop at an exhibitor’s booth

More than 100 engineers, technologists, and industry leaders converged at Wawasan Open University (WOU) on 19 September 2025 for the TAM Symposium 2025: “Design Smarter, Build Safer”. The half-day event explored how automation, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and cloud-based systems are transforming the way buildings are designed, secured, and sustained in an increasingly digital and urbanised world.

Jointly organised by the Technological Association of Malaysia (TAM) Penang Branch, the Malaysia Board of Technologists (MBOT), and WOU’s School of Technology and Engineering Science, the symposium provided participants with valuable insights into digital transformation, sustainable design, and advanced security integration in the built environment.

Prof Ts Yap Eng Hwa says the symposium exemplifies how universities can bring industry and technology
leaders together to chart solutions for a rapidly changing world.

In his welcome address, Prof Ts Yap Eng Hwa, WOU’s Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), said the symposium exemplifies how universities can bring industry and technology leaders together to chart solutions for a rapidly changing world.

“We are proud to convene a gathering of leading experts and industry professionals to address a topic of such vital importance. This event aligns closely with our mission to serve as a hub for thought leadership and professional development — connecting bright minds to explore trends that will shape tomorrow’s industries.”

He added that the collaboration with TAM and MBOT reflects WOU’s commitment to helping professionals upgrade their skills and stay relevant.

Prof Yap presenting a token of appreciation to Mr Jimmy Low, CEO of MAG Security System

“Adaptability, integration, and innovation are no longer optional; they are essential. Just as we are reimagining education to prepare a tech-driven, future-ready workforce, industries like security are reinventing themselves to keep pace with rapid urbanisation, ESG considerations, and technological advancements.”

The line-up of speakers featured Jimmy Low, Chief Executive Officer of MAG Security System; Melvin Chan, Chief Operating Officer of Demco Industries; Kelvin Thum, business consultant representing Wenoli Technologies; and Ts Alex Poo, Council Member of TAM. Their sessions covered cutting-edge topics such as smart building security solutions, integrated fire safety systems, ESG-based energy solutions, and the digitalisation of construction.

Prof Yap reminded participants that the true value of technology lies in how people apply it.

“Digitisation isn’t just about adopting new tools — it’s about reshaping how we think, design, and build for a sustainable future. Ultimately, it’s about making technology work for us — and empowering professionals to keep learning, adapting, and applying their knowledge to build safer, smarter, and more sustainable futures.”

For WOU, the symposium reinforced the University’s role as more than just a place of learning. It’s where expertise meets opportunity — where ideas from industry are tested, shared, and refined to prepare Malaysia’s workforce for what comes next.

Seminar attended by engineers, consultants, developers and specialists in security, building management, and automation systems