The Potential of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Technology Implementation in Malaysian Shipbuilding Industry

Abstract

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is one of the most efficient technologies for tracking system to ease complex logistics processes and make them more effective. A lot of heavy and manufacturing industries have implemented this technology, and by far resulting in a lot of advantages. Therefore, RFID is often emphasized to increase efficiency especially when dealing with inventory and logistics management. Due to benefits of RFID implementation, the application is expected to be further explored and be used in shipbuilding activities at shipyards. As an initial effort, this research was conducted to measure the feasibility of RFID implementation in Malaysian shipbuilding industry. The feasibility will support the potential of RFID implementation in Malaysian shipbuilding. Three research objectives are set for this research, which are to determine the way RFID technology is being implemented in shipbuilding processes, to evaluate the awareness of the people in shipbuilding industry regarding RFID technology, and to investigate the feasibility and suitability of RFID application in Malaysia shipbuilding. Prior to that, four research questions have been constructed, which are mainly based on survey and interview sessions. The end of this paper presents discussions on the results and some recommendations regarding the potential RFID implementation in Malaysian shipbuilding industry. Keywords : Malaysian Shipbuilding; RFID; Shipyard