Bandung – The Faculty of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Institut Teknologi Bandung (FTMD ITB) hosted a visit from the Indonesia Manufacturing Center (IMC) team, led by Mr. Mangasi Parsaoran Siahaan, Head of the IMC, on October 31, 2024. The visit aimed to foster closer collaboration between IMC, universities, and research institutions in supporting the national manufacturing industry.

IMC, based in Plered, West Java, was inaugurated on October 14, 2024, by Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita. Operated under the Ministry of Industry and the Directorate General of Metal, Machinery, Transportation Equipment, and Electronics Industries (ILMATE), IMC is committed to being a catalyst for the “Machine Making Machine” (3M) program. Its mission is to integrate collaboration among the government, industry, academia, research institutions, professionals, and media or financial institutions to promote industrial technology development.

During the visit, the IMC team was welcomed by Dr. Eng. Ir. Agung Wibowo and Dr. Ir. Tri Prakosa from FTMD ITB. The discussions were productive, focusing on potential collaboration within the pentahelix framework and identifying FTMD ITB’s role in strengthening this synergy, particularly in industrial technology development and analysis. FTMD ITB is recognized for its strong track record of collaboration with the government and industry, especially in manufacturing, demonstrated by its partnership with the Ministry of Industry in the Machine Tools Industry development center.

Dr. Agung Wibowo highlighted the six stages of product development, which span from planning to manufacturing: product planning, concept development, form design, detailed design, testing and refinement, and the manufacturing process culminating in a ready-to-use product.

He also emphasized ITB’s educational trend encouraging students to think comprehensively from design to prototype creation through the Capstone Design program. This approach aims to equip graduates with holistic skills in integrating design and manufacturing—key competencies in modern industries.

IMC Task Force Head Mr. Mangasi Parsaoran Siahaan underscored that the collaboration covers a wide range of sectors, including healthcare technology and the manufacturing industry. IMC is envisioned not only as a hub for innovation but also as a solution provider for national industrial challenges, such as testing, certification, and sustainable technology development.

The discussion also addressed the need for IMC facilities to bridge industrial gaps and ensure the sustainability of this collaboration.

As a follow-up, both institutions plan to further explore and harness the potential of this partnership to strengthen the synergy between IMC and FTMD ITB. The goal is to support the development of technology and innovative products that contribute to the progress of the national industry.