AUTOMOTIVE parts industry players are calling for stronger government support as they grapple with rising costs, rapid electric vehicle (EV) adoption and supply chain disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions.
Selangor and Federal Territory Engineering and Motor Parts Traders Association (Empta) chairman Kau Peng Yap said greater assistance was needed to help local businesses remain competitive as the industry was undergoing major transformation.
He said escalating operational and logistics costs, combined with the growing shift towards EVs, had placed significant pressure on many businesses.
“As more EVs enter the market, the share of traditional internal combustion engine vehicles will inevitably decline.
“To stay relevant, companies, particularly small and medium enterprises, must adapt by upgrading their products, technologies and business models.
“The government can play an important role by helping to develop a skilled workforce and providing support for traditional businesses making the transition,” he said during Empta’s 56th gala dinner in Kuala Lumpur.
Kau also encouraged industry players to look beyond the domestic market and explore opportunities to promote their products and services internationally.
Selangor investment, trade and mobility committee chairman Ng Sze Han, who delivered a speech on behalf of Transport Minister Anthony Loke, said the government remained committed to accelerating EV adoption and advancing the country’s transition towards low-carbon technologies.
Ng urged businesses to diversify into EV-related sectors, including component manufacturing, charging infrastructure, specialised maintenance services, battery lifecycle management and digital mobility solutions.
“As vehicle technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for the after-sales market industry to remain competitive, innovative and accessible.”
Ng also emphasised the need to uphold safety standards amid the rapid growth of e-commerce, reaffirming the government’s commitment to tackling counterfeit and non-compliant automotive parts.
“Digitalisation brings tremendous opportunities in terms of convenience and efficiency.
“However, innovation must be matched with accountability, transparency and effective regulatory oversight,” he said.
Organising committee chairman Amos Lim called on more industry players to join Empta and strengthen collaboration within the sector.
He also expressed appreciation to sponsors and association members for their continued financial support and participation in the event.
As part of its corporate social responsibility efforts, Empta presented RM100,000 in donations to four Chinese schools in Kuala Lumpur.
Established in 1970, Empta represents more than 1,100 companies involved in the manufacturing, wholesale and retail of automotive components.
