Robots that serve as waiters are seen in a restaurant in Shanghai on Jan 10, 2017. [Photo/IC]

SINGAPORE - Harbin Institute of Technology Robot Group (HRG), one of China's leading robot manufacturers, and Temasek Polytechnic (TP) on Thursday jointly launched the TP-HRG Robotics Innovation Center in Singapore.

The two sides said in a statement that the center's setting-up marks the first step towards establishing a framework for research and training in the field of robotics, automation and other enabling technologies, in line with Singapore's Industry 4.0 initiative.

HRG's CEO Wang Meng said at the opening ceremony of the center that Southeast Asia is one of the fastest-growing regions in the world, and Singapore, with its superior geographical position, is strategically important to Chinese companies.

Peter Lam, Principal & CEO of Temasek Polytechnic, said by coupling TP's expertise in robotics and automation with HRG's experience in implementing robotics solutions globally, the two sides will be able to provide not just the technology but also the highly relevant training and skills upgrading that are vital to a successful and sustainable digital transformation.

He added that the center is established with two key objectives. One is to expand the efforts in training students and adult learners in robotics and automation. Another is to provide greater support to help companies, particularly the small and medium enterprises, to implement robotics and automation solutions, and enhance their productivity and competitiveness.

HRG and TP signed an MoU in May 2018 to cooperate in research & development, training, as well as the designing, delivering, test-bedding and integrating of solutions in relevant technologies in support of industry players, including small and medium enterprises, in Singapore and around the region.