TANJUNG MALIM, February 21 — Proton Holdings Bhd’s new electric vehicle (EV) assembly plant in Tanjung Malim is set to drive the growth of the Automotive High Technology Valley (AHTV) and create over 3,000 jobs, said Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad. The RM82 million facility, Malaysia’s first plant dedicated to new energy vehicles (NEVs), will solidify the country’s commitment to green technology and the national automotive industry’s advancement.

The first phase, expected to be completed by end-2025, will produce 20,000 units annually, beginning with the Proton e.MAS 7, the brand’s first EV model. Beyond job creation, Saarani emphasized that Malaysia’s strong automotive ecosystem, semiconductor expertise, and government incentives, including 10,000 EV charging stations by 2025, make the country a prime investment destination.

He also highlighted plans to enhance connectivity and infrastructure, including a new highway linking AHTV to Lumut Maritime Industrial City (LuMIC) in Manjung, to strengthen the industrial ecosystem. The West Ipoh Span Expressway (WISE) project will further improve logistics, supporting Malaysia’s long-term vision for the high-tech automotive industry.