Developing an IoT Framework for Industry 4.0 in Malaysian SMEs: An Analysis of Current Status, Practices, and Challenges

Abdulaziz, Qusay Adnan; Mad Kaidi, Hazilah; Masrom, Maslin; Hamzah, Halim Shah; Sarip, Shamsul; Dziyauddin, Rudzidatul Akmam; Muhammad-Sukki, Firdaus

Abstract

This qualitative study aimed to explore the current status, practices, and challenges of Internet of Things (IoT) implementation and to develop an IoT framework for Industry 4.0 in Malaysia. Industry 4.0 enhances a company’s manufacturing competitiveness and efficiency. However, the implementation of Industry 4.0 in Malaysian small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is still in its early stages. Five participants from three different SMEs were selected for online interviews and a focus group. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the interviews were conducted online and lasted about 30 to 45 min. The data collected from the interviews were analyzed through thematic analysis and used to validate the literature review and to identify gaps in existing frameworks. The IoT framework was developed through a focus group of experts. This study found that the implementation of Industry 4.0 is relatively low in Malaysian manufacturing SMEs. SMEs are facing various challenges, including the need for education and training, budget constraints, and a lack of experience and knowledge among workers. This study found that the positive impact of IoT implementation included improved internal communication, reduced errors, and enhanced product quality and safety. In addition, this study resulted in the development of an IoT framework for SMEs in Malaysia.

Citation

Abdulaziz, Q. A., Mad Kaidi, H., Masrom, M., Hamzah, H. S., Sarip, S., Dziyauddin, R. A., & Muhammad-Sukki, F. (2023). Developing an IoT Framework for Industry 4.0 in Malaysian SMEs: An Analysis of Current Status, Practices, and Challenges. Applied Sciences, 13(6), Article 3658. https://doi.org/10.3390/app13063658

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Mar 10, 2023
• Online Publication Date: Mar 13, 2023
• Publication Date: Mar 13, 2023
• Deposit Date: Mar 13, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Mar 13, 2023
• Publisher: MDPI
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 13
• Issue: 6
• Article Number: 3658
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/app13063658
• Keywords: Industry 4.0, IoT framework, SMEs, Malaysia, manufacturing, status, practices, challenges