Malaysia’s journey into the electric vehicle (EV) era has just shifted into high gear with the official launch of Proton’s brand-new EV assembly plant in Tanjung Malim by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim recently.
This milestone is not just about building cars — it’s about shaping Malaysia’s future in sustainable mobility. That being said, here’s everything you need to know about Proton’s EV plant, why it matters, and how it positions Malaysia in the global EV race.
A historic first for Malaysia
For decades, Proton has been at the heart of Malaysia’s automotive industry. From the iconic Proton Saga in the 1980s to today’s advanced hybrid and EV ambitions, the brand has evolved alongside the nation. But the opening of the EV assembly plant in Tanjung Malim marks a new chapter altogether.
This is Malaysia’s first-ever assembly plant dedicated exclusively to electric vehicles, a facility designed from the ground up with EVs in mind. Unlike adapting an existing factory, this plant was purpose-built to meet the specific requirements of EV production — from specialised equipment to workforce training.
Located within the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV) in Perak, the plant is also part of a larger government-backed vision to make Malaysia a hub for next-generation vehicles in Southeast Asia.
The first cars off the line
The facility’s debut model is the Proton e.MAS 7, launched in December 2024 and already crowned Malaysia’s best-selling EV. The e.MAS 7 represents Proton’s ambition to make EVs accessible to everyday Malaysians — combining affordability, practicality, and modern design.
Hot on its heels will be the Proton e.MAS 5, a smaller sibling aimed at urban drivers. Both cars will be completely knocked down (CKD) models, meaning they are assembled locally from imported parts — a step towards greater localisation in the future.
Proton’s close partnership with Zhejiang Geely Holding Ltd (Geely) also opens the door for premium EV brands under the Geely umbrella, such as Zeekr, to be assembled here, giving Malaysia exposure to higher-end EV technologies.
Investment and capacity
The new EV plant covers 5.57 acres within the Tanjung Malim complex. Built at a cost of RM82 million, the plant is being rolled out in phases.
- Phase 1 investment: RM47 million
- Current capacity: 20,000 EVs per year
- Maximum scalable capacity: 45,000 EVs annually
This scalability is crucial. As EV adoption grows in Malaysia and across the ASEAN region, Proton’s plant is already set up to ramp up production to meet demand without major overhauls.
Inside the plant: Technology and processes
The plant combines advanced automation with skilled human operators, balancing efficiency with craftsmanship. Among the specialised equipment installed are:
- Tyre manipulator chassis line and rear sub-assembly line for precision builds
- Sunroof manipulator and glass glazing trim line for quality fit and finish
- Fluid filling machines and EV electrical device testing systems for safety compliance
- Chassis number engraving machines for traceability and regulation compliance
Every vehicle undergoes stringent quality checks, from assembly accuracy to electrical system integrity. Dedicated part-preparation areas streamline the flow of components, ensuring efficiency without compromising standards.
Job creation and skills development
The plant is not just a production hub — it’s a training ground for Malaysia’s future EV workforce.
- Initial workforce: 30 employees trained in critical technical roles
- Projected workforce: Over 200 new jobs once the plant is at full capacity
These roles cover everything from industrialisation and assembly to advanced technical services. For the local community in Tanjung Malim, this represents not just employment but the chance to upskill in the fast-growing EV sector.
Why this plant matters
According to Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong, the EV plant is the “backbone” of Proton’s electrification strategy. It signals Proton’s commitment to sustainability and positions Malaysia as a serious player in the EV race.
The success of the e.MAS 7 shows that local consumers are ready for EVs — and with this facility, Proton can now scale up production to meet demand both locally and regionally.
For Malaysia, it represents:
- Industrial advancement: Moving from being an automotive assembler to an EV technology hub.
- Sustainability: Supporting the government’s push for greener mobility under the Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint 2021–2030.
- Economic impact: Attracting foreign investments and strengthening Malaysia’s role in the ASEAN EV supply chain.
The bigger picture: Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV)
The Tanjung Malim plant is part of the larger Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV), envisioned as Malaysia’s next big automotive hub.
The government has identified AHTV as a high-impact project under the 13th Malaysia Plan, focusing on new energy and next-generation vehicles. It aims to attract global carmakers, technology firms, and investors, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem for EVs.
Green logistics: Rail connectivity for the future
During the launch, a significant step was taken towards sustainability beyond car production. AHTV Alliance Sdn Bhd (AASB) signed agreements with the Railway Assets Corporation (RAC) and Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) to study the feasibility of a dedicated railway logistics hub.
The idea is to move containers by rail rather than road, reducing carbon emissions while improving efficiency. This aligns with the Ministry of Transport’s push to shift heavy freight from roads to rail, easing congestion and cutting transport-related emissions.
Proton and Malaysia’s EV roadmap
The plant fits squarely into Malaysia’s broader EV roadmap, which targets:
- 15% of new vehicle sales to be electrified by 2030
- 38% by 2040, rising to 80% by 2050
With Proton leading the charge alongside other brands like Perodua, BYD, and Tesla, Malaysia is setting itself up to be both a manufacturing hub and a consumer market for EVs.
A turning point for Proton and Malaysia
The opening of Proton’s EV plant is more than a corporate milestone. It’s a symbol of Malaysia’s readiness to embrace the EV revolution, combining local ambition with global partnerships.
From affordable EVs for everyday Malaysians to potential assembly of premium brands, the Tanjung Malim facility shows that the future of mobility here will be electric, scalable, and sustainable.
As Dr Li Chunrong summed it up: “This facility will be the backbone of our commitment to producing world-class electric vehicles. The Proton e.MAS 7 is just the beginning of our journey towards a sustainable future.”
