In a move toward transforming the automotive landscape in Malaysia, the Malaysian Malay Vehicle Importers and Traders Association (Pekema) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Chinese electric vehicle (EV) giant, Dongfeng Motor Industry Import & Export Co Ltd (DFMIEC).
Pekema deputy president and acting president, Datuk Mohamed Nazari Noordin, said that the MoU aims to accelerate the growth of the EV industry in the region and promote the development of a robust EV ecosystem, not only in Malaysia but also throughout Southeast Asia.
He said that the collaboration between Pekema and DFMIEC, a subsidiary of the leading Chinese car manufacturer Dongfeng Motor Corporation (DFMC), clearly demonstrates Pekema’s commitment to sharing and aligning the association’s capabilities with the growing automotive industry.
“Pekema’s partnership with DFMIEC is a significant step in our mission to usher in a more environmentally friendly era of mobility in Malaysia.
The EV landscape in Malaysia is in an extraordinary growth phase, and this collaboration places us at the forefront of this change. It is a historic event to reshape the future of transportation in our country,” he said in a statement today.
According to him, the MoU ceremony held at Wisma Yayasan Pekema in Cyberjaya demonstrates the strong commitment of Pekema and DFMIEC in enhancing bilateral relations and supporting the growth of the electric vehicle industry in the region.
“Pekema and DFMIEC will join forces to study and navigate the ever-evolving EV market landscape in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. This collaboration will not only introduce innovative and environmentally friendly transportation solutions but also stimulate economic growth and job opportunities in line with the Malaysian government’s vision for a more sustainable future,” he said.
He said that DFMIEC has already embarked on efforts to expand its presence in the international EV market, especially in Malaysia, where the full potential of right-hand-drive electric vehicles has not been fully realised.
“Through this strategic collaboration, Pekema and DFMIEC are determined to fulfill essential needs such as strengthening sales channels for EVs in Malaysia and expanding into markets in Southeast Asia,” he said.
Meanwhile, DFMIEC PV Overseas Marketing Division general manager, Zhao Xiaojie stated that their first right-hand-drive new energy vehicle (NEV) model would be launched in the market around the middle of next year.
“Today, we are in Malaysia as the first stop for our right-hand-drive model cooperation. This decision has been carefully considered in the context of the Malaysian government’s strong support for NEVs and our partner’s commitment,” he said.
He added that in the future, DFMIEC would continue to support Malaysia’s electrification efforts and prioritize local production in Malaysia to bring better EV products to Asean countries.
