CEO Insights Magazine

Leaders in the aerospace industry play a crucial role in shaping the future of aviation exploration. They are visionaries, driving innovation, and fostering collaborations that propel the industry to new heights. Among these influential figures is Prof. Ts. Shamsul Kamar Abu Samah, a prominent name in the Malaysian aerospace sector. With a solid foundation in electrical engineering, he embarked on his journey as a Radar and Air Traffic Systems Engineer and later as a Senior Project Engineer in Flight Simulation System. His dedication and expertise led him to hold the position of CEO at National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia (NAICO Malaysia), where he has been instrumental in the development of the aerospace ecosystem. Ts. Shamsul's commitment to advancing technology and his ability to forge international collaborations are setting the stage for a brighter future in aerospace technology. Engaging in an idiosyncratic interaction with CEO Insights Asia magazine, TS. Shamsul shares the imperious details of his journey and future road map for NAICO Malaysia. Let’s hear it from him.

Can you provide insights into the distinctive experiences that Universiti Teknologi Malaysia offers, and what non-academic lessons can students gain from their campus experience?

My journey at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) was nothing short of transformative. The unique aspect of UTM lay in its ability to instill in us not just textbook knowledge but a deep appreciation for the dynamic nature of technology in Malaysia. They urged us to continuously grasp the latest technological advancements, even beyond our academic curricula. The guidance and leadership exhibited by the university staff laid the foundation for many of us to become leaders in technology and engineering.

My recent involvement with UTM to address an aerospace seminar at UTM NEXUS Expo only reaffirmed that the university not only molds engineers but also offers a platform for ongoing collaboration with experts, bridging academia and industry for Malaysia's benefit.

How would you describe the National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia as a company, and what is its current standing in the market?

National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia (NAICO Malaysia) is a pioneering agency with a focus on the holistic development of the Malaysian aerospace ecosystem, spanning aircraft & space technology, drones, ground systems, and air traffic management systems. Before NAICO Malaysia, there was a gap in the dedicated organization responsible for this broad development. Under my leadership, we successfully brought together aerospace leaders in Malaysia and global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to collaborate on business and ecosystem development. One significant achievement was ensuring the continuous  of aerospace manufacturing and MRO activities during the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, as we are considered a critical supplier for OEMs. This unique role sets NAICO Malaysia apart, and we are now looking to expand our capabilities, not just within Malaysia but also through regional and international collaborations.

Share your approach to leadership. What guiding principles do you employ as a leader?

My leadership philosophy centers around trust, transparency, and unwavering commitment to continuous improvement. I firmly believe that within our organization, everyone possesses unique capabilities, and it's essential to empower them to reach their full potential. Mistakes, in my view, are stepping-stones for growth, and I encourage our team to learn swiftly from them, turning challenges into opportunities. Ensuring transparency and integrity are at the core of our operations, we adhere to strict SOPs and governance to maintain the highest standards of ethics and quality, which is particularly critical in the aerospace industry where safety and precision are crucial.

What are your long-term goals and aspirations for the future, both personally and professionally?

My vision for the next five years is to position NAICO Malaysia as the definitive center of reference, not just for our domestic aerospace industry but also for regional and global OEMs. I aspire to transform NAICO Malaysia into an organization, where excellence will converge with a wealth of knowledge encompassing aerospace industry, technology, business, and ecosystem development. The goal is to establish NAICO Malaysia as a shared platform for all stakeholders in the Malaysian aerospace community, fostering collaboration and international partnerships for the years ahead.

Based on your extensive industry experience, what advice would you offer to emerging leaders in the field?

I firmly believe that collaboration and partnership are potent tools that aspiring leaders should embrace wholeheartedly. In my journey, I've learned that the development of technology, engineering, and industry isn't the sole domain of any individual or organization. It's a collective effort that thrives through engagement and collaboration with various stakeholders. Yes, it can be challenging, as differences in opinions and ideas are inevitable, but the key lies in reaching a consensus through meaningful engagement.

Prof. Ts. Shamsul Kamar Abu Samah, CEO, National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia

Prof. Ts. Shamsul Kamar Abu Samah is a professional technologist and a leading figure in the aerospace industry. Graduating from the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), his career began as a Radar and Air Traffic Systems Engineer, sparking his passion for high technology. With a strong foundation in electrical engineering, he pursued further studies in the UK, eventually becoming a Senior Project Engineer in Flight Simulation System. Currently in his role as the CEO of National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia, he spearheads the growth of the industry, fosters international collaborations, and has founded the Malaysia Aerospace Center of Excellence. Ts. Shamsul has received honorary Professorship from the University of Nottingham Malaysia, and an award from International Sustainable Aviation and Energy Research Society.

QUICK FACTS:

• Hobbies: DIYs at home, playing badminton and football, engaging with students and my subordinates to share my insights

• Favorite Cuisine: Malaysian especially Chicken Rice and Nasi lemak

• Favorite Book: Articles on Engineering and Technology Development

• Favorite Travel Destination: United Kingdom and Australia