MITI Remains Without Official Update on Proposed BYD Tanjung Malim Plant

The Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI) has confirmed that it has yet to receive official information regarding the status of BYD’s proposed vehicle assembly plant in Tanjung Malim. The uncertainty was highlighted during a recent Dewan Negara session, where the ministry addressed inquiries about the progress of the facility.

Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, clarified the government's position in response to a question posed by Senator Tan Sri Dato’ Low Kian Chuan. The minister emphasized that while the project was previously discussed, there has been no formal notification provided to the ministry as to whether BYD will proceed with the investment under the conditions established by the government.

According to the minister, any decision to move forward, delay, or modify an investment plan rests entirely with the company as a commercial matter. This lack of formal communication leaves the current status of the project, which was first announced in August 2025, officially unclear at this time.

Information provided by the original publisher indicates that observations from earlier this year suggest BYD may be exploring alternative locations. Notable activity includes a visit to the Inokom facility in Kulim, led by BYD Vice President Liu Xueliang, which has sparked speculation regarding a potential shift in the company's manufacturing strategy within Malaysia.

For the local automotive industry and Malaysian investors, this ambiguity is significant. The establishment of an assembly plant by a major global player like BYD is seen as a key component in Malaysia's broader push to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and solidify its position as a regional automotive hub. Until further official updates are provided, the future of the Tanjung Malim site remains subject to the company's internal strategic deliberations.