Muhammad Fadhlullah bin Aziz is a Higher Executive in Operations at ST Logistics. He oversees the day-to-day operations of the eMedCab, an innovation developed by the company to streamline logistics management for paramedics who are on the frontlines saving lives. Fadhlullah has a Diploma in Supply Chain Management and Innovation from Singapore Polytechnic.
1. Tell us more about the eMedCab.
The eMedCab is an unmanned smart cabinet equipped with AI, sensors and an HD camera that digitises inventory management and records transactions in real-time. Located at various hospitals islandwide, the eMedCab allows Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) paramedics to quickly and seamlessly replenish medical supplies on the go. Previously, paramedics had to return to the fire station to stock up on supplies after conveying patients to hospitals, but with the eMedCab, they can now pick up items there too by simply scanning a QR code. They do not need to spend time on manual inventory management as well since the eMedCab system will automatically record the products and quantities taken.
As part of my job, I monitor the inventory levels in the eMedCabs to ensure that they are well-stocked to support the operations of our paramedics. Based on data collected, we found that the eMedCab has helped improve operational efficiency by up to 30 per cent – an ambulance typically answers around eight calls in a day, but after the eMedCab was implemented, the number has jumped to 10 to 11 calls. I also work closely with my business development team to oversee the roll-out of new eMedCabs.
Six eMedCabs have been deployed so far, and there are plans to have another 19 at fire stations by the end of 2026. It feels extremely meaningful to know that my work is supporting the SCDF in performing critical life-saving duties for Singaporeans.
2. How has ST Logistics supported your career growth?
I was working in a warehouse-related role when I first joined ST Logistics, but after a couple of years on the job, I decided it was time to try something new. That was when this opportunity to work on the eMedCab project came up. I was unsure at first whether I had the necessary skills to take this on but the support of my company and colleagues allowed me to rise above this challenge. To prepare me for my new role, I received on-the-job training from my business development team and learnt how to handle the eMedCab’s technical systems. I also utilised the Skills Allowance Scheme to pick up new tech skills in Microsoft solutions like Power BI and Power App, which I currently apply in my day-to-day work. In addition, the company has developed an in-house application for employees to take short bite-sized courses on the go. Known as the CPO application, it provides access to over 25,000 courses from external platforms and allows us to take charge of our own learning to advance our career goals.
3. What is your take on logistics in Singapore?
Singapore’s position as a logistics hub at the crossroads of multiple trade routes means that logistics will remain an evergreen field here. Younger Singaporeans might have the misconception that logistics is outdated and backward, but I can assure you that is not the case, especially in the context of ST Logistics. The company is always trying to incorporate automation and AI technologies in our work so that we can stay ahead of our competitors and offer up-to-date solutions to our customers.