PT GIH and ITEBA Partner to Launch “Student Career Inspiration” Program in Batam
In a significant move to bridge the gap between academia and industry, PT Galaksi Investasi Harapan (GIH) and the Institut Teknologi Batam (ITEBA) have officially strengthened their synergy through a new collaborative initiative. On Monday, April 13, 2025, representatives from PT GIH visited the ITEBA campus to coordinate a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program titled “Student Career Inspiration,” which is slated for implementation at the end of this year.
Empowering the Next Generation
The upcoming program is specifically designed to target approximately 200 students from across Batam. It aims to serve as a platform for self-development and motivation, helping young people navigate their future career paths through interactive and inspirational sessions.
According to Ibu Aurora Trimasidy, Finance and HR Manager at PT GIH, the program will feature three core pillars:
Career Inspiration Session: Providing insights into various professional opportunities.
Dream Workshop: Encouraging students to proactively design their future.
Sharing Session: Building self-confidence through direct interaction and personal experiences.
“Through this program, we want to provide inspiration while opening the horizons of students regarding various career opportunities in the future,” stated Ibu Aurora.
A Strategic Academic-Industry Link
PT GIH has formally invited ITEBA to act as a co-organizer for the event. This partnership will involve ITEBA’s lecturers and practitioners as keynote speakers, ensuring that the insights shared are not only industry-relevant but also grounded in solid academic perspectives.
Dr. Eng. Ansarullah Lawi, Vice Rector of ITEBA, welcomed the collaboration warmly. He emphasized that this initiative aligns with the institution’s commitment to supporting youth development in Batam. By participating, ITEBA reinforces its role in connecting the world of education with the practical needs of the industry.
A Lasting Partnership
This visit is more than just a planning session; it is a testament to the long-standing relationship between ITEBA and PT GIH. The synergy between these two entities extends beyond industry recruitment, focusing heavily on community empowerment through educational and motivational programs.
The ASEAN Paradox: Satellites in the Sky, Paperwork on the Floor
The global tech stage is often a theater of the “impossible” made real. On one side of the room, you’ll find engineers demonstrating how to beam high-speed internet to a lone fishing vessel in the middle of the Pacific. On the other, you’ll see satellite technology designed to bridge communication gaps in active conflict zones.
It is, by every definition, incredible. But as we look toward ATxEnterprise 2026, we have to ask a difficult question: Why is it easier to connect the middle of the ocean than it is to connect the middle of our supply chain?
The “Last Mile” of Digital Transformation
While the “hard parts” of physics and connectivity have been solved by mankind, the “human parts” of regional manufacturing are lagging behind. The reality of digital transformation in ASEAN today is a jarring paradox.
The Disconnect: We have the bandwidth to send a 47-page ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance document instantly, but we haven’t given the recipient the tools to process it.
The Burden: In manufacturing hubs like Batam, Johor, and Surabaya, production managers and SME owners are being hit with a wave of digital mandates—traceability data, EMS systems, and carbon reporting—without the foundational digital infrastructure to generate them.
For the small-to-medium enterprise (SME), “digital transformation” isn’t a buzzword; it’s a bureaucratic mountain.
Moving from Connectivity to Capability
If we want a resilient future, the conversation needs to shift. It is no longer enough to celebrate the technology that can exist; we must support the people who must use it.
The suppliers in Johor being squeezed for data and the managers in Surabaya facing Q1 deadlines are the backbone of the ASEAN economy. If they are left behind by the digital “vanguard,” the entire supply chain becomes brittle.
We need to look “down the supply chain” and bridge the gap between high-level innovation and ground-level implementation. This means focusing on:
Accessible Automation: Tools that don’t require a PhD to deploy.
Simplified Compliance: Using AI to turn 47-page documents into actionable task lists.
Digital Literacy: Ensuring the workforce in our industrial zones is as equipped as the engineers in our labs.
Join the Conversation at ATxEnterprise 2026
On 22nd May, I will be joining Asia Tech x Singapore to address this very gap. We will be diving into the “Future Workforce” and discussing how AI and automation can be democratized to serve the entire manufacturing ecosystem—not just the top 1%.
Event Details:
Session: Future Workforce: AI, Automation & Digital Transformation
Date & Time: 22nd May | 11:40 AM
Location: Singapore EXPO
The hard problems of physics are solved. Now, let’s solve the hard problems of progress.
Success in the industrial world is rarely a straight line; more often, it is a test of endurance. For PT. Galaksi Investasi Harapan (GIH), that test culminated on June 21, 2025, when the company was officially crowned “The Most Leading Manufacturing Enterprise of the Year.”
The accolade marks a definitive milestone for a firm that began with little more than a vision and an uncompromising work ethic.
A Decade of Defiance
The journey to the podium took 12 years of building from the ground up. In an era of “disruptive” shortcuts and rapid scaling, PT. GIH chose a different path:
Zero Shortcuts: Focusing on structural integrity and operational excellence.
No Safety Nets: Operating with the high-stakes pressure of a self-made enterprise.
Purpose-Driven Growth: Ensuring every expansion served a larger goal beyond just the bottom line.
Reflecting on the achievement, leadership acknowledged the darker days when the company’s survival was in question. The award is described not just as a corporate win, but as a testament to a team that remained steadfast when the landscape was “messy, uncertain, and tough.”
Strengthening the Batam Ecosystem
While the night belonged to PT. GIH, the celebration highlighted the rising tide of the entire region. The leadership extended particular praise to fellow industry giants, specifically PT. EX Batam and its President Director, Mr. Hideki Toda.
Their recognition in component manufacturing underscores a significant shift in the local economy. Batam is rapidly shedding its old identity as a simple labor hub and evolving into a sophisticated engine of innovation.
“Batam is no longer just a manufacturing hub—it’s becoming a driver of innovation. We are proud to grow alongside such resilience.”
The Road Ahead
Winning “Manufacturing Enterprise of the Year” is a finish line for a 12-year chapter, but PT. GIH views it as a starting block for the next decade. With the trophy in the cabinet and the “messy” years serving as a foundation of resilience, the company is already looking toward its next milestone.
Success in the industrial world is rarely a straight line; more often, it is a test of endurance. For PT. Galaksi Investasi Harapan (GIH), that test culminated on June 21, 2025, when the company was officially crowned “The Most Leading Manufacturing Enterprise of the Year.”
The accolade marks a definitive milestone for a firm that began with little more than a vision and an uncompromising work ethic.
A Decade of Defiance
The journey to the podium took 12 years of building from the ground up. In an era of “disruptive” shortcuts and rapid scaling, PT. GIH chose a different path:
Zero Shortcuts: Focusing on structural integrity and operational excellence.
No Safety Nets: Operating with the high-stakes pressure of a self-made enterprise.
Purpose-Driven Growth: Ensuring every expansion served a larger goal beyond just the bottom line.
Reflecting on the achievement, leadership acknowledged the darker days when the company’s survival was in question. The award is described not just as a corporate win, but as a testament to a team that remained steadfast when the landscape was “messy, uncertain, and tough.”
Strengthening the Batam Ecosystem
While the night belonged to PT. GIH, the celebration highlighted the rising tide of the entire region. The leadership extended particular praise to fellow industry giants, specifically PT. EX Batam and its President Director, Mr. Hideki Toda.
Their recognition in component manufacturing underscores a significant shift in the local economy. Batam is rapidly shedding its old identity as a simple labor hub and evolving into a sophisticated engine of innovation.
“Batam is no longer just a manufacturing hub—it’s becoming a driver of innovation. We are proud to grow alongside such resilience.”
The Road Ahead
Winning “Manufacturing Enterprise of the Year” is a finish line for a 12-year chapter, but PT. GIH views it as a starting block for the next decade. With the trophy in the cabinet and the “messy” years serving as a foundation of resilience, the company is already looking toward its next milestone.
The distance between a breakthrough in a university laboratory and a finished product on a factory floor is often measured in years—and all too frequently, it is a distance that is never crossed. On August 5th, at the INExCO UTM 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, a new solution was launched to bridge that divide: PlastIQ.
The launch took place before an audience of Malaysia and Indonesia’s premier STEM leaders, marking a pivotal shift in how we approach the relationship between academic research and industrial manufacturing.
The Problem: The “Paper Graveyard”
For years, a frustrating pattern has persisted in the scientific community. Brilliant researchers develop high-potential theories and innovative materials, only to face a set of insurmountable hurdles:
Theoretical Stagnation: Great research often remains confined to academic journals.
Invisible Innovation: Without a path to market, the world never sees the progress being made.
Industry Disconnect: Manufacturers often lack the specialized framework to test and adopt experimental research safely.
The Paper Gap: Life-changing solutions frequently stay on paper rather than becoming physical products.
“PlastIQ isn’t just another project; it’s a necessity. If we want more breakthroughs to become real-world solutions, we have to change the conversation between academia and industry.”
The Solution: What is PlastIQ?
PlastIQ was built to be the missing link in the polymer and manufacturing ecosystem. By creating a dedicated pipeline for research, PlastIQ ensures that “strong theory” becomes “shippable product” through a rigorous four-pillar process:
Selection: Identifying research with the highest potential for real-world application.
Testing: Moving beyond the lab to stress-test materials under industrial conditions.
Certification: Providing the necessary stamps of approval that industry requires to trust new materials.
Scaling: Transitioning from small-scale samples to high-volume manufacturing.
Why INExCO UTM 2025?
Launching at INExCO wasn’t a coincidence. As a hub where regional STEM priorities are set, it provided the perfect stage to foster tangible action rather than just discussion. By engaging with leaders from both Malaysia and Indonesia, PlastIQ is positioned at the heart of the region’s manufacturing future.
Let’s Build Together
The journey from a molecular formula to a manufactured part is complex, but it no longer has to be a dead end. Whether you are an academic with a breakthrough or a manufacturer facing a polymer challenge, the goal is the same: to turn theory into reality.
Imagine a child’s toy, resilient and vibrant – thank ABS for that durability and color stability. Envision the reliable food container in your fridge, safeguarding your meal’s freshness – that’s PP ensuring flexibility and chemical resistance.
Navigating through the dynamic world of plastics, ABS and PP emerge not just as materials but as architects of our daily experiences. Join us as we delve into the technical universe of ABS and PP, exploring their silent yet impactful presence in our everyday lives, and unraveling the science that makes them indispensable in product design.
We are excited to welcome talented professionals who are passionate about their fields and eager to contribute to the advancements in the manufacturing field. If you are ready to take on challenging projects and make a significant impact in your area of expertise, please submit your application, including your resume and portfolio, to recruitment@gih-asia.com or click apply button below. We look forward to hearing from you!
Insights from Journée des Doctorants Indonésiens 2024
In today’s interconnected world, bridging the gap between academia and industry stands as a crucial step towards progress. This was the core message conveyed by GIH’s President Director, Phuspita Naaidu, at the recent Journée des Doctorants Indonésiens (JDI) 2024, organized by the Indonesian Embassy in Paris. The event focused on R&D Synergy: Tackling Challenges and Unlocking Collaborative Opportunities between Industry and Academia.
Understanding the Context
In the last decade, there has been a notable rise in the number of Indonesian doctoral students pursuing their studies in France. This trend reflects the strong commitment of Indonesia’s younger generation towards advancing science and technology. Engaged in various research fields, from sciences and technology to social sciences and humanities, these doctoral candidates play a vital role in driving knowledge forward.The Journée des Doctorants Indonésiens (JDI) 2024, with its theme “Research Downstreaming,” specifically highlighted the essential role of Indonesian doctoral students in France in advancing knowledge and its application in Indonesia. These students, equipped with global perspectives and advanced research skills, serve as catalysts in the process of research downstreaming in Indonesia.
Key Objectives
The objectives of JDI 2024, focused on “Facilitating Science and Technology Transfer for Commercialization: Fostering Collaboration Between Doctoral Research and Industries for Advancing Indonesia’s Economic Growth towards ‘Indonesia Emas 2045,'” are outlined as follows:
Enhancing Scientific Collaboration: Providing a platform for Indonesian doctoral students in France to share research findings, ideas, and innovations, fostering interdisciplinary scientific collaboration.
Supporting Research Downstreaming: Garnering understanding and strategies to implement research findings into tangible practices for the benefit of Indonesian society and industries.
Building Professional Networks: Facilitating the formation of professional networks among doctoral students, academia, industry, and government to support research downstreaming and innovation in Indonesia.
Empowering Young Academicians: Encouraging and empowering Indonesian doctoral students in France to actively contribute to the development of science and technology in Indonesia.
Increasing Visibility of Indonesian Research: Elevating the visibility and impact of research conducted by Indonesian doctoral students in France on the international stage, inspiring innovation and creativity among Indonesian doctoral students in France.
Participation and Logistics
The main participants included doctoral students from various disciplines in France, alongside representatives from industry practitioners interested in collaborating with doctoral students to commercialize their research findings.
Timing and Venue
JDI 2024 took place both physically at the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Paris, France, and virtually via Zoom on Friday and Saturday, April 26-27, 2024.
Execution of Activities
The two-day event featured presentations, panel discussions, and networking sessions designed to achieve the aforementioned objectives.
Execution of Activities
The two-day event featured presentations, panel discussions, and networking sessions designed to achieve the aforementioned objectives.
Panel Discussion Themes
The event comprised three panel discussion sessions:
Policy Perspectives on Research Commercialization in Indonesia and France
R&D Synergy: Tackling Challenges and Unlocking Collaborative Opportunities between Industry and Academia
Impactful Innovations: Success Stories from Indonesia
Distinguished Speakers
The event boasted esteemed speakers, including representatives from the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology – Republic of Indonesia, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), PLN (Indonesia’s state-owned electricity company), Diponegoro University, and the National Research and Innovation Agency.In essence, the Journée des Doctorants Indonésiens 2024 served as a crucial platform for fostering collaboration, sharing knowledge, and driving innovation—a testament to the commitment towards advancing Indonesia’s research ecosystem and fostering meaningful partnerships between academia and industry.
Manufacturing Excellence: From Design Efficiency to Sustainable Practices
"The Power of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) in Modern Production: Exploring the principles of DFM and how it ensures efficient and cost-effective manufacturing processes”
In today’s manufacturing landscape, Design for Manufacturing (DFM) is crucial for success. DFM optimizes the design phase, emphasizing efficient manufacturability, cost reduction, and operational efficiency. Unlike conventional methods, DFM bridges the gap between design and manufacturing, promoting a streamlined and collaborative approach. By integrating manufacturing considerations seamlessly into the design process, DFM ensures that products are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also optimized for cost-effective production. Principles such as material selection, ease of assembly, tolerance analysis, and the use of tools like Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software contribute to a transformative era in manufacturing. Embracing DFM provides companies with a competitive edge, delivering high-quality products efficiently and at a reduced cost, aligned with Industry 4.0 principles.
“Advancements in Tool Fabrication: Precision, Efficiency, and Durability: Discussing the latest technologies in tool fabrication and their role in ensuring high-quality plastic injection molding”
Tool fabrication in plastic injection molding has evolved significantly. Precision, efficiency, and durability are key focuses, with technologies like Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining and 3D printing revolutionizing precision in crafting molds. This ensures faithful replication of intricate designs, minimizing material waste for cost-efficiency. Efficiency is enhanced through automation and Industry 4.0 integration, utilizing high-speed machining and adaptive toolpaths for faster fabrication without compromising precision. Durability is paramount, with innovations in materials like high-strength alloys and coatings reducing the need for frequent replacements. Advanced heat treatment processes ensure tools withstand the demands of high-volume production. Recent advancements in tool fabrication mark a paradigm shift, elevating product quality, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability in plastic injection molding.
“Secondary Processes in Manufacturing: Beyond Basic Molding: Highlighting the technological nuances of secondary processes, from advanced printing techniques to rigorous lab testing.”
Secondary processes in manufacturing are advancing beyond basic molding, embracing technologies like 3D printing and additive manufacturing. These allow for intricate designs and customized components, enhancing visual aesthetics and innovation. Rigorous lab testing has become integral, ensuring products meet and exceed industry standards. Quality assurance, from material durability assessments to performance simulations, is now an integral part of the manufacturing process. This evolution signifies a departure from convention, embracing technological nuances to redefine industry standards.
“SMT PCBA: The Backbone of Modern Electronics Manufacturing: Exploring the intricacies of Surface Mount Technology (SMT) for Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) and its role in producing compact and efficient electronic products.”
Surface Mount Technology (SMT) for Printed Circuit Board Assembly (PCBA) is a linchpin in modern electronics manufacturing, enabling the development of compact and efficient electronic products. Departing from traditional methods, SMT allows meticulous component placement directly onto the circuit board’s surface, creating smaller, lighter, and densely populated boards. Precision in component placement through SMT is integral, defining contemporary electronic design. SMT PCBA redefines efficiency through automated processes like advanced pick-and-place machines and reflow soldering, reducing manufacturing costs. The versatility of SMT PCBA is a catalyst for innovation, accommodating a range of components, from resistors to integrated circuits, offering flexibility for intricate and feature-rich electronic products.
“Wire Harness Technology: Ensuring Safe and Efficient Electrical Connections: A deep dive into the technology behind wire harnessing and its significance in various industries.”
Wire Harness Technology ensures efficient and secure electrical connections across industries. Beyond cable management, wire harnesses are organized assemblies serving as the circulatory system for devices. Precision in assembly guarantees reliability, minimizes interference, and protects wiring. Wire harness technology contributes to organized and dependable electrical connectivity across various industries. Its adaptability transcends industry boundaries, finding applications in automotive, aerospace, medical devices, and consumer electronics. Wire harness technology remains a fundamental element, bridging efficiency and safety in the complex web of electrical connections
”Box-Build Assembly: The Convergence of Multiple Technologies: Discussing the multi-faceted approach to box-build assembly and how it brings together various manufacturing technologies.”
Box-Build Assembly integrates diverse technologies into intricate electronic systems. This approach streamlines the production workflow, harmonizing technologies such as PCB fabrication, cable assembly, precision machining, and system integration. Collaboration among engineers, designers, and manufacturers ensures seamless integration. Rigorous testing and efficient logistics emphasize a holistic approach, prioritizing quality, reliability, and efficiency in electronic systems production. Box-Build Assembly symbolizes the convergence of technology, expertise, and a comprehensive approach to manufacturing excellence.
”Global Shipping in the Digital Age: Leveraging Technology for Seamless Logistics: Exploring the tech-driven methodologies that ensure efficient, trackable, and timely worldwide shipping.”
Global Shipping undergoes a transformative shift, leveraging technology for efficient logistics on a global scale. Advanced software solutions and data-driven methodologies redefine the shipping process, introducing visibility and efficiency. Tech-driven methodologies optimize global shipping, utilizing innovations like automated route optimization, IoT devices for real-time monitoring, and AI/ML algorithms for predictive insights. In the digital age, the focus on timely deliveries and transparency in global shipping is paramount. Advanced tracking systems provide real-time visibility, while blockchain ensures security and transparency. Smart contracts reduce errors and delays, enhancing overall efficiency and reliability in international trade.
”The Role of Business Analysis & Consultancy in Tech-Driven Manufacturing: Highlighting how data analytics, AI, and other technologies are reshaping business consultancy in the manufacturing sector.”
The partnership between Business Analysis & Consultancy and technology drives digital transformation. Data analytics, AI, and advanced technologies provide manufacturers with actionable insights, transcending traditional consulting paradigms. Business analysts leverage these tools to optimize operations and make informed decisions, fostering innovation and resilience. This data-centric approach positions manufacturers at the forefront of the evolving manufacturing landscape, guiding them through the integration of emerging technologies. Business Analysis & Consultancy in manufacturing becomes increasingly future-oriented, ensuring seamless integration of tech-driven solutions for enhanced efficiency and competitive edge.
”Incorporating Green Technologies in Plastic Injection Moulding: Discussing the sustainable technologies and practices being adopted in the industry and their implementation at leading-edge companies.”
The plastic injection molding industry is shifting towards sustainability, with leading-edge companies adopting green technologies. Innovations include the integration of bioplastics derived from renewable resources and optimizing manufacturing processes to minimize waste. These initiatives align with environmental stewardship, showcasing a commitment to a conscientious and sustainable approach. Sustainable practices in plastic injection molding address concerns about end-of-life disposal and contribute to a circular economy. Leading-edge companies that prioritize green technologies gain a competitive edge, meeting the expectations of an environmentally conscious consumer base and influencing global environmental policies. Incorporating green technologies is a strategic imperative for companies aiming to thrive in a sustainable future.
