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THE nation’s automotive industry reached another milestone with the launch of three new battery electric vehicles by UMW Toyota Motor at its Bukit Raja facility today.
The event was witnessed by Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Sim Tze Tzin, along with Takashi Obata, Deputy Chairman, and YBhg Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.
“It is always encouraging to see continued innovation and investment in our automotive sector,” said Sim.
The Deputy Minister underlined the stable economic environment created by Malaysia’s government under the MADANI Economy framework and the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, which he said provides a predictable environment where businesses can grow.
“Toyota’s continued investment here is a testament to the friendly business ecosystem we offer. We aren't just putting new cars on the road, but we are creating better jobs for our people and building a brighter, more innovative future for Malaysia.”
Highlighting the pivotal role of the automotive sector, Sim noted that it has long been a key pillar of Malaysia’s manufacturing economy, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and contributing significantly to industrial output.
He added, “The automotive sector is not simply about assembling vehicles. It is an industry that drives high-value economic activity. It stimulates the development of local vendors, strengthens engineering capabilities, and accelerates the transfer of technology and innovation into our economy.”
Sim emphasised that sustained investment and collaboration between government and industry have allowed Malaysia to move up the value chain, enabling participation in increasingly sophisticated sectors.
Since 1968, Toyota has produced over 2.1 million units locally, reflecting its commitment to localisation and long-term industrial presence in the country.
“Through sustained investments, technology transfer, and the development of local talent and suppliers, Toyota has contributed to strengthening the capabilities of Malaysia’s automotive ecosystem,” Sim stated.
He welcomed the development of battery assembly capabilities at UMW Toyota Motor’s Bukit Raja facility, describing it as “a positive step as our automotive industry moves further into electrification. We hope to see even more innovation in electrification technologies, advanced components and mobility solutions being developed here as the industry continues to evolve.”
The Deputy Minister encouraged Toyota to deepen partnerships with local Malaysian companies.
“Our businesses are highly capable and ready to deliver. By using more local parts, Toyota can build a stronger supply chain that is safe from global delays. Plus, increasing your local content makes Toyota eligible for more government incentives. It is a win-win; we help your business grow, and you help us build a stronger Malaysian industry.”
Acknowledging the global transformation of the automotive sector, Tuan Sim observed that technological innovation and the shift towards cleaner mobility are reshaping vehicle engineering, manufacturing, and usage.
“Electrification, digital technologies and new energy systems are redefining the future of mobility,” he said.
In Malaysia, this transition is already evident. EV adoption has surged from just 55 units on the road in 2020 to approximately 45,000 today.
Based on a Total Industry Volume of 820,752 units in 2025, electric vehicles now account for around 5.5 per cent of new vehicle registrations.
Charging infrastructure has expanded as well, with more than 5,000 public charging points deployed nationwide and a national target of 10,000 chargers underway.
Sim stressed the dual responsibility of ensuring Malaysia remains competitive while supporting this industrial transformation.
“This means strengthening the capabilities of our local ecosystem, developing the skilled workforce needed for advanced technologies, and ensuring that Malaysia remains an attractive destination for high-quality investments.”
He reiterated the government’s commitment to welcoming investments that bring new technologies, stating, “Such investments contribute not only to new products and new markets, but also to the development of engineering expertise, supplier capabilities and skilled talent that will sustain the long-term growth of the industry.
“At the same time, the government remains committed to ensuring that Malaysia’s automotive sector develops healthily and competitively.”
Highlighting alignment with national energy goals, Sim noted, “Toyota’s multi-pathway strategy is well aligned with Malaysia’s national direction, as reflected in the National Energy Transition Roadmap.
“A combination of hybrid and fully electric technologies can coexist, ensuring that the transition towards low-carbon mobility remains practical, inclusive and aligned with market readiness and infrastructure development.”
The launch of three completely built-up battery electric vehicles marks an important market-building phase.
“As demand strengthens and the ecosystem matures, such initiatives may also open pathways towards deeper localisation in the future.
“This reflects the confidence that global automotive leaders continue to place in Malaysia not only as a market, but as an industrial ecosystem capable of supporting the future of mobility,” Sim added.
Commending UMW Toyota Motor for its enduring commitment to Malaysia, emphasising that the partnership benefits both parties. Sim said: “By working together, we aren't just selling cars; we are driving technology, creating jobs, and growing our economy. When Toyota succeeds, Malaysia succeeds. Let us continue this strong journey together for a more prosperous future.” - April 2, 2026
