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The visit across the causeway in Pasir Gudang, Johor on 9 December 2024 was truly an eye-opening experience for the students from the Diploma in Food Science & Technology (DFST) course, offering invaluable insights into the complexity, automation and digitalisation involved in large-scale industrial production.

We had the opportunity to tour the Performance Materials as well as Dispersions Plants and found it most fascinating to learn about their production processes. The integration of advanced automation and digital technologies into the production process was particularly impressive, and it showcased how enhanced efficiency, precision and safety are emphasized in operations. Through lively exchanges with Norazwan bin Sanusi, Site Manager for the Pasir Gudang site, Vikash Fernandes, Dispersion Plant Manager and the other hosts, the students learned how this applies to the Food Science industry as well.

This visit took place as part of a learning journey arranged through BASF in Singapore. Special mentions go to the BASF Pasir Gudang team - Norazwan bin Sanusi, Vikash Fernandes, Muhammad Qadzfar Qurniawan, Chow Wee Loon, and Sarina binti Mohamed Raffi; and the BASF counterparts in Singapore – Deborah Chua, Grace Yip and Angeline Tan. Thank you to the BASF team for your excellent hospitality and for making this visit a memorable and enriching experience for all of us.

“My visit to the BASF factory in Malaysia was an eye-opening experience, showcasing the scale, automation and digitalisation of industrial production. Observing real-world applications of concepts like process engineering made the trip impactful, especially as we saw hazardous raw materials transformed into eco-friendly products through advanced technology. The teamwork of engineers, operators and safety managers highlighted the importance of collaboration in ensuring smooth, efficient and safe operations, providing valuable insights into creating innovative and sustainable solutions.”

Rachel Ng Xi En

“My visit to the BASF chemical production facility was an insightful experience, showcasing complex manufacturing processes, sustainability initiatives and the role of digitalisation in production. I observed real-world applications of industrial systems like heat exchangers and spray dryers, as well as BASF's efforts to reduce its environmental footprint through solar energy and efficiency measures. The digitised control room highlighted how modern technology simplifies operations and ensures quality. Overall, the trip deepened my understanding of large-scale production and sustainable practices, better preparing me for the food production industry's similar processes.”

Chua Zheng An