PETALING JAYA: Xcel Itech Sdn Bhd and Sirim Bhd are collaborating to localise, test, validate and commercialise train simulator technologies as part of efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s rail technology capabilities.
The collaboration will establish a structured pathway for Malaysian-developed solutions to progress from engineering and product development to independent testing, industry validation and commercial deployment.
Initial areas of cooperation include the localisation of train simulator components, technical assessment and validation, talent development, and industry & market development. By leveraging Sirim’s technical and industrial capabilities, Xcel Itech aims to enhance the readiness and credibility of its locally developed technologies, strengthen confidence among rail operators and industry partners, and position its solutions for wider adoption in Malaysia and international markets.
The two parties formalised their plans through a Letter of Intent (LOI) signed during InnoTrans 2026 in Berlin on Sept 22. The arrangement will draw on Xcel Itech’s experience in train driving simulators and immersive training solutions, alongside Sirim’s technical and industrial capabilities.
The initiative is aligned with the four principal areas of the Selangor Rail Industry Hub: local train assembly and testing, proof-of-concept and system integration, train-simulator development, and the localisation of the rail supply chain. It will develop a strong and integrated rail ecosystem, bringing together technology developers, manufacturers, testing and certification capabilities, academia, training institutions, rail operators and industry stakeholders.
“Through our collaboration with Sirim, we aim to establish a clear pathway for Malaysian-developed rail technologies to progress from local development to testing, validation and commercialisation. Our expected outcomes are to increase local content in train simulator technologies, strengthen Malaysia’s technical and engineering talent, establish credible validation capabilities, and accelerate the adoption of locally developed solutions by the rail industry. Ultimately, we want Malaysian-developed rail technologies to be commercially competitive, industry-ready and positioned for both the domestic and global markets,” said Xcel Itech CEO Badrul Hisham Abdul Kahar.
The LOI represents an important foundation for further collaboration between Xcel Itech and Sirim, while supporting Selangor Rail Industry Hub in becoming a catalyst for a stronger Malaysian rail industry and a platform connecting local innovation with global opportunities.