TANJUNG MALIM – Proton Holdings Berhad has officially launched its first dedicated electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in Malaysia, located within the Automotive High-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjung Malim, Perak.
The facility, built in partnership with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, marks a significant milestone in the national carmaker’s transition towards electrification.
The RM82 million plant, completed in just seven months, will begin operations this month with the local assembly (CKD) of the Proton e.MAS 7, followed by the e.MAS 5 by the end of 2025.
In its first phase, the factory is capable of producing 20,000 units annually, with the potential to scale up to 45,000 units depending on domestic and export demand.
Equipped with specialised zones for battery assembly, high-voltage safety checks, and EV-specific testing, the facility incorporates modular production lines and digital traceability systems to accommodate future model variations without major redesigns.
Geely has provided technical guidance, equipment support, and overseas training for Proton staff to ensure compliance with global EV manufacturing standards.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who officiated the launch, said the project aligns with the government’s EV industrialisation plan and will help reduce production costs, making EVs more accessible to middle-income buyers.
He also confirmed that Geely will begin CKD assembly of its Zeekr brand at AHTV, further strengthening the hub’s role in the regional automotive supply chain.
The plant is expected to create 200 new jobs, with Proton already collaborating with Polytechnic Sultan Azlan Shah to provide technical training for local talent.
The initiative supports Malaysia’s ambition to become a competitive EV manufacturing base in Southeast Asia while positioning Proton as a stronger contender in international markets, including Egypt, South Africa, and Brazil.