Malaysia’s automotive supply chain has received a major boost with the opening of MCE Holdings Berhad’s new RM50 million MCE Auto Hub in Serendah, Selangor. While MCE may not be a household name like Perodua or Proton, chances are you’ve already used products developed by the company without even realising it.
As one of Malaysia’s leading Tier-1 automotive electronics suppliers, MCE manufactures and develops electronic systems that are fitted directly into vehicles produced by major carmakers. The company has long been one of Perodua’s key local suppliers, providing a range of electronic and mechatronic components used across the national automaker’s model lineup.
Located within the UMW High Value Manufacturing Park, the new eight-acre facility represents the first phase of MCE’s long-term expansion plan, which could eventually see investments grow to RM200 million. The plant will more than double the company’s production capacity while strengthening its capabilities in design, engineering, manufacturing and research and development.
For Perodua buyers, this investment could prove significant.
As vehicles become increasingly dependent on software and electronics, local suppliers such as MCE are playing a much bigger role than simply producing parts. Modern cars now rely on dozens of electronic control modules, body control systems, smart key functions, lighting controls, security systems and other electronic components that enhance convenience, safety and efficiency.
With the automotive industry rapidly moving towards electrification and smarter connected vehicles, manufacturers like Perodua are also expected to incorporate more advanced electronics into future models. Having a local supplier with stronger engineering and manufacturing capabilities allows new technologies to be developed and produced closer to home, while reducing reliance on imported components.
Designed as an Industry 4.0-ready facility, the MCE Auto Hub features clean-room production areas and tightly controlled manufacturing environments required for next-generation automotive electronics used in both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles.
The facility also strengthens Malaysia’s ambitions to build a more competitive automotive ecosystem. MCE now employs 680 people, including 90 engineers, across its operations in Johor Bahru, Port Klang and Serendah, supporting programmes for both ICE and EV manufacturers in Malaysia and overseas.
Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, who officiated the launch, said investments like this demonstrate confidence in Malaysia’s automotive future while highlighting the importance of strengthening local engineering expertise, innovation and advanced manufacturing.
MCE Group Managing Director Dr Goh Kar Chun said the company has come a long way since supplying remote alarm and central locking systems to local carmakers in 1990. Today, the company develops increasingly sophisticated automotive electronics and mechatronic solutions for customers in Malaysia, ASEAN and the United States.
He added that the new MCE Auto Hub reflects the company’s confidence that Malaysian engineering and manufacturing capabilities can compete globally, while creating greater opportunities for local suppliers and technology companies to participate in the development of next-generation automotive technologies.
Although consumers may never see the MCE badge on their cars, the company’s continued investment is likely to benefit brands such as Perodua by strengthening local parts development, improving supply chain resilience and supporting the rollout of increasingly sophisticated vehicles in the years ahead.
