Meet Foo Sek Meng

Foo Sek Meng

Manager, Logistic Solution/After Sales (Automation)

For Foo Sek Meng, every day at work is a new puzzle to solve. After nearly three decades with UMW Industries (1985) Sdn Bhd, he continues to find joy in learning, problem-solving and exploring how technology can redefine industrial logistics.

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For Foo Sek Meng, every day at work is a new puzzle to solve. After nearly three decades with UMW Industries (1985) Sdn Bhd, he continues to find joy in learning, problem-solving and exploring how technology can redefine industrial logistics.

Joining the company in April 1996, Sek Meng began his journey on several special projects — from the Puspakom Inspection Station project and Telekom standby battery systems to assembling BT wire-guided lifters and Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) installations. Over the years, he played a key role in advancing the company’s technical and automation capabilities, supporting the introduction of systems such as the Kollmorgen Toyota Autopilot System, Toyota ASRS, and Toyota Live Storage System.



Read the full interview below.

Now serving as Manager, Logistic Solution and After Sales (Automation), Sek Meng manages a portfolio that combines traditional material handling expertise with modern automated systems. For him, automation isn’t rocket science — it’s simply the natural evolution of logistics to meet today’s industrial needs. “Automatic Logistic Solution is just an expansion of Material Handling Solution,” he explains. “It’s about adapting technology to make work smarter and more efficient.”

His approach to leadership reflects both humility and practicality. “There are always solutions through challenges,” he says. “Have fun, solve the puzzle and move on.” Whether it’s tackling technical issues or managing tight project deadlines, Sek Meng believes that teamwork and clear communication are essential. “I don’t like to overemphasize the pressure — that’s my role to manage,” he adds with a grin. “Sometimes, a good discussion over the dining table solves more than a meeting room can.”

Throughout his career, the constant opportunity to learn has kept him motivated. “You never get bored here,” he says. “Every project is unique, every solution teaches you something new.” Sime UMW’s culture of continuous improvement and openness to technology has given him space to grow professionally and personally. “There’s always room to explore new knowledge and skills,” he notes, “and that’s what keeps me going.”

When asked what he’s most proud of, Sek Meng doesn’t point to awards or milestones. Instead, he finds fulfilment in the satisfaction of customers and principals when a project is successfully delivered. That quiet sense of accomplishment, he says, is the real measure of success.

His advice to young engineers and technicians is straightforward:
“Don’t just focus on one skill. Be open to change and new challenges.”

Looking ahead, Sek Meng hopes to continue integrating new technologies that will strengthen UMW’s logistics and automation offerings. His goal is to help the company stay agile while ensuring that each solution truly enhances customer efficiency.

Outside of work, he finds balance through family time, Taichi, movies and reading — simple pleasures that keep him grounded after long days of technical problem-solving.

Summing up nearly 30 years of experience in three words, he pauses before saying,
“Learning, evolving and assisting.”

A fitting reflection of a career built on curiosity, adaptability and service — and a reminder that progress never stands still for those who keep learning.

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