TANJONG MALIM: Chinese automotive giant Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co Ltd (Geely) has been invited to increase its investment to develop the Automotive Hi-Tech Valley (AHTV), says the Prime Minister.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government hopes to make the AHTV an important hub for the regional automotive supply chain, not only for Proton but also for other automobile manufacturers in the area.
“We want to make the AHTV an important centre for Geely, and I have informed its chairman, Li Shufu, that Geely should take the opportunity to establish not just a car manufacturing plant but also a centre of excellence for training and education,” he said at the launch of Proton’s electric vehicle (EV) plant here.
Anwar said the development of Proton’s EV plant was in line with the country’s policies, which emphasise mastering high technology.
These policies, he said, included the energy transition, the industrial master plan and the national automotive policy.
He also stressed that cooperation between the state government and relevant ministries was vital to ensure the success of investments in the AHTV area.
Anwar said the factory launch would open up more opportunities to penetrate international markets, including Egypt, South Africa and Brazil.
“In Beijing (recently), Egyptian Prime Minister (Mostafa Madbouly) met me and expressed admiration over Proton Egypt’s encouraging performance; their cars are among the popular emerging cars which Egyptians find affordable.
“That demonstrates our ability in venturing into industries abroad and breaking down barriers,” he said, adding the economic cooperation was a result of good and personal diplomatic relations.
Anwar also disclosed that efforts were underway to introduce Proton cars into the South African and Brazilian markets. The intention has been communicated to these leaders.
