Dr. Kalam who was speaking on knowledge society and dimension of new age manufacturing, said that in the 21^st century, organization should inculcate sensitivity to customer needs. “Competitiveness is powered by research and organization should continuously focus, in partnership with universities, on how research can lead to continuous process improvements”.
 

Dr. Kalam who delivered his insightful speech after a tour of the KEF factory, accompanied by Faizal Kotikollon, founder and chairman of the company, said the world-class facility exemplified what could be achieved by blending competitiveness with relentless research. “In a knowledge society, we have to make innovations continuously through creativity”.
 

“For success in all missions, it is essential to have creative leaders. Creative leadership means exercising the vision to change the traditional role-from commander to coach, manager to mentor, director to delegator, and from who demands respect to one who facilitates self-respect”. He said the global society needs a large number of creative leaders from all professional cadres. I am sure the young man in an organization will be helped to evolve as creative leaders, who will build the future.”

Dr. Kalam, a renowned aeronautic engineer and rocket scientist, told the press gathering that he was impressed with the KEF manufacturing facility and was delighted to see advanced technologies at work in full integration at the plant that manufactures steel castings and industrial valves.