A TOTAL of RM7bil in investments was realised at the Automotive High-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjung Malim between 2018 and 2026, generating 9,300 jobs, said Sim Tze Tzin (pic).
The Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister said the realised investments, which included contributions from Chinese automotive giant Geely, accounted for 23.3% of the estimated RM30bil investment earmarked for AHTV’s development through 2035.
Sim said the workforce at AHTV had grown from about 2,000 in 2018 to 9,300 this year, with the figure projected to reach 22,800 by 2030.
“The total investment associated with the development of the AHTV ecosystem is estimated at RM30bil through 2035.
“This includes investments already realised, ongoing investments and developments planned for the future,” he said.
Sim was responding to Tan Kok Wai (PH-Cheras), who asked for the number and list of projects under Geely’s investment commitment in Tanjung Malim.
He said the RM30bil figure should be regarded as an overall development estimate rather than as investments that have been fully realised.
He added that the number of companies operating within AHTV had increased from 11 in 2022 to 35, comprising automotive component suppliers and logistics service providers.
“Among the major projects completed were upgrades to Proton’s manufacturing facilities in Tanjung Malim, including expanded production capacity and capabilities in metal stamping, painting, body assembly and final vehicle assembly,” he said.
“The upgrades also included the production of new-generation engines and transmissions, alongside the development of a 12- megawatt-peak solar farm within Proton’s manufacturing complex to improve energy efficiency.”
Sim said industrial development and upgrading works undertaken between 2025 and 2026 included an electric vehicle manufacturing plant, expanded engine production capabilities, metal stamping facilities, a new logistics and warehousing centre as well as a research and development testing laboratory.
These developments were expected to strengthen manufacturing capabilities, innovation and technology transfer while supporting the expansion of the domestic automotive supply chain.
He said supporting infrastructure had also been developed, including road networks, a gas pipeline connecting Bidor to AHTV, 5G telecommunications coverage, electricity and water supplies, and fibre-optic connectivity.
Sim said AHTV’s long-term success would depend not merely on investment figures and vehicle production capacity but also on its contribution to the wider domestic automotive industry.
“This includes strengthening the technological capabilities of local companies, increasing the use of locally-manufactured components, reducing dependence on imports and expanding exports of high-value automotive products,” he said.
