Nation to boost EV, battery manufacturing to lead ASEAN mobility sector
Theedgemalaysia.com, 20 May '25
Malaysia's electrical and electronics sector is positioned to develop the country's capacity in electric vehicle (EV) and battery component manufacturing to meet the demands of the regional mobility ecosystem in ASEAN.
Datuk Dr Aminar Rashid, chairman of the Malaysia Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), stated that this objective requires addressing infrastructure gaps, modernising logistics networks, and simplifying cross-border mobility to ensure the effective flow of goods, services, and talent.
"The National Automotive Policy 2020 outlines Malaysia's aim to become a regional hub for next-generation vehicles, mobility accessories, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
"In parallel, Malaysia's Industrial Master Plan 2030 supports this approach by directing the country towards high-value, high-technology industries while incorporating sustainability and inclusivity," he said during the opening remarks at the PwC Automotive ASEAN Conference on Monday.
Dr. Aminar further added that MARii collaborates with academia, industry, and government to develop certification pathways, digital training platforms, and inclusive programmes to enable participation in the evolving mobility sector.
"Managing this transition requires cooperation among governments, industries, academia, financial institutions, and consumers, both within Malaysia and across ASEAN and beyond," he stated.
During the conference, PwC Malaysia and MARii signed a memorandum of understanding to support the development of Malaysia's automotive sector within ASEAN.
Nurul A'in Abdul Latif, executive chair of PwC Malaysia, said the partnership aims to position Malaysia as a regional centre for mobility innovation.
"The automotive industry is undergoing transformation driven by changes in technology, regulation, investment priorities, and consumer preferences.
"Through this collaboration, PwC will provide data-driven insights to assist Malaysia's automotive policy development, investment strategies, and industry competitiveness, especially as Malaysia assumes the ASEAN chairmanship," she said.