Malaysian automobile industry sees new milestone

Kuala Lumpur - The Malaysia Autoshow 2024 has concluded with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) reporting a total of 1.4 billion RM (about 294.4 million USD) potential sales, 2,620 bookings of vehicles, and 13,799 sales leads - marking a significant milestone for the automotive industry.

Taking place from May 21-26, the event featured over 200 brands and exhibitors and saw 47 product launches. This year's autoshow attracted 223,876 visitors, reflecting a 17 per cent year-on-year increase, and recorded a total of 6,263 test drives and rides.

Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii) CEO Azrul Reza Aziz expressed his gratitude to all sponsors, partners, exhibitors, and visitors for their support, which contributed to the autoshow being recognised by the Malaysian Book of Records as the largest international autoshow.

Azrul hinted at the return of the Malaysia Autoshow in 2025, potentially with new settings and evolved themes as Malaysia takes on the ASEAN Chairmanship next year.

The event showcased a diverse range of attractions, including concept vehicles, electric and efficient ICE vehicles, autonomous driving demonstrations, modified cars, classic automobiles, campervans, and military vehicles. It also facilitated the exchange and signing of 15 memorandum of understanding (MoUs) and memorandum of agreement (MoAs) among industry players.

A notable highlight was the display of xEV models, which made up 50 per cent of the vehicles showcased, aligning with the National Automotive Policy (NAP2020) and the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP2030), both of which emphasise greener and more efficient technologies.

Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, said the impressive turnout and engagement at Malaysia Autoshow 2024 clearly indicate the robust interest and confidence in Malaysia's automotive industry.

As Southeast Asia's recently anointed second-largest auto market, Malaysia has a strong foundation to propel the growth of this sector, particularly in electric vehicles, thanks to well-established E&E sector, he noted.

Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke on May 31 said that his country wants to strengthen cooperation with China in artificial intelligence (AI) with focus placed on education and training.