Malaysia has potential to become regional EV production hub, towards sustainable future – Fadillah

Malaysia has the potential to become a regional hub for EV production and innovation, said deputy prime minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, according to a Bernama report.

In his speech at yesterday’s Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2024 opening ceremony, he said that the mobility industry’s growth presents immense opportunities for local manufacturers and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to integrate into the global supply chain.

Malaysia’s National Investment Aspirations aim to position the country as a global supply chain hub by attracting high-quality investments and enhancing the capabilities of local industries, added Fadillah, who is also energy transition and water transformation minister.

Fadillah said KLIMS 2024 was an excellent platform to witness the advancements in automotive technology, bolstered by Malaysia’s regional collaboration through the ASEAN Power Grid initiative, which aligns with Malaysia’s leadership as ASEAN chair in 2025 to secure a sustainable energy future.

He called on stakeholders, particularly the mobility industry leaders, policymakers, innovators and consumers, to work hand-in-hand in driving the mission.

“Malaysia is committed to building a sustainable future for the generations to come. Transportation, being one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, is a critical area in our national energy transition plan. Consumer adoption of EVs and hybrid vehicles will drive the nation closer to its sustainability goals, with transformative initiatives like KLIMS playing a pivotal role in sparking widespread interest, collaboration, and action,” Fadillah said.

Malaysia has potential to become regional EV production hub, towards sustainable future – Fadillah

Meanwhile, KLIMS 2024 chairman and Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) president Mohd Samsor Mohd Zain said in his speech that the auto industry contributes 4% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) annually and is currently estimated to employ over 700,000 people.

“Over the years, the automotive industry has expanded tremendously in tandem with the country’s economic growth and the increasing standard of living.

“The total industry volume (TIV) for the automotive industry has grown leaps and bounds over the last three decades, from 200,000 units in 1994 to an all-time high of 799,731 units in 2023,” Mohd Samsor said, adding that a record 800,000 units is expected by end-2024.

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