TANJUNG MALIM, Perak, El Sky News – Malaysia’s ambition to become a leading force in the regional automotive industry, particularly in the Electric Vehicle (EV) and New Energy Vehicle (NEV) segments, is gaining momentum as the Automotive High-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjung Malim accelerates its development.
Far beyond a conventional plant upgrade, this mega project represents a national strategic initiative expected to reshape the local socio-economic landscape and strengthen Malaysia’s standing on the global automotive map.
Major Investments Driving Transformation
At the core of AHTV’s development lies the collaboration between Malaysian conglomerate DRB-HICOM Berhad and China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. Ltd. (Geely).
Geely has outlined a master plan with potential investments reaching RM32 billion (approximately USD10 billion). The massive capital injection is not only designated for manufacturing expansion but also for building a fully integrated automotive ecosystem encompassing research and development (R&D), advanced technological suppliers, and a comprehensive industrial chain.
Investor confidence continues to grow. Global EV powerhouse BYD is expected to establish its EV production plant within AHTV by 2026, reaffirming international trust in Malaysia’s stability, policies, and long-term potential as a destination for high-impact foreign investment.
A notable point of reference includes Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s earlier disclosure that Saudi oil and gas giant Aramco has expressed interest in positioning Malaysia as its Southeast Asian hub. Although Aramco is primarily focused on the O&G sector, the announcement indirectly strengthens Malaysia’s reputation as a stable and strategic investment destination.
Developing a New Generation of EV Engineers
The advancement of AHTV carries the promise of thousands of new, high-value employment opportunities for Malaysians. The first phase of Proton’s EV assembly plant alone is expected to generate more than 3,000 jobs, creating strong demand for skilled talent in the EV and automotive sectors.
More importantly, the project emphasises local talent development through direct technology transfer.
Proposed Centre of Excellence:
Early proposals include establishing an education or university hub within AHTV to produce a new generation of engineers and specialists trained in cutting-edge automotive technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), design engineering, and software development.
TVET Collaboration:
The Perak state government is expanding Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes in partnership with key industry players like Proton and BYD. This initiative aims to strengthen parents’ and students’ confidence in the automotive sector, presenting them with promising career paths and competitive salaries within AHTV.
Geely Technology Transfer:
Through the partnership with Geely, local operators are trained directly by international technical experts, enabling Malaysia to develop expertise in advanced automation technologies required for producing next-generation vehicles based on global modular architectures (GMA).
Overall, AHTV represents more than an industrial complex; it is a holistic strategy to integrate global technology, attract world-class investment, and empower Malaysians with future-ready skills in the fast-evolving automotive sector.
