Optimization of Manpower a Case Study at Kilang Gula Felda Perlis Sdn. Bhd.

This thesis is the result of a research on the optimization of manpower in the manufacturing sector. A case study was performed at Kilang Gula Felda Perlis Sdn. Bhd. (KGFP) Chuping, Perlis. Basically, the objective is to identify the optimal number of permanent and temporary workers that would be allocated in the clarification, boiling,
curing, and packing stations for morning, afternoon and night shifts. Three linear programming models were formulated using the optimization approach, by adapting earlier studies by Alfares, and Topaloglu and Ozkarahan, guided by other studies that are related to this research field. The findings of the models are able to improve the current allocation of workers by 30% to 36%. The computer package LINDO was used to attain the research objectives.
The proposed models and their findings may offer good thoughts for the management of KGFP to improve the practiced human resource, mainly on manning the stations. As a return value, it would contribute to a significant cost saving. Also, the management may adapt the proposed models to solve similar problems in other departments in the company.