Malaysia’s transforming automotive industry represented by new themes at Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2023 31.10.2022: Transformation is circulating Malaysia’s automotive market ahead of Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2023. From both policy-driven and private sector initiatives, the country has ambitious plans to establish more influence on an international level.

Transformation is circulating Malaysia’s automotive market ahead of Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2023. From both policy-driven and private sector initiatives, the country has ambitious plans to establish more influence on an international level.


Between 16 and 18 March at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, players can explore a gathering of opportunities from the upswing of electrification and digitalisation gaining ground in the supply chain.
 



Industrial innovation



With global trends doubling down on electromobility and connectivity, many international automotive markets are looking to leverage opportunities from the promise of Asia’s supply chain. From this viewpoint, Malaysia is a key nation in the region undergoing a significant transformation, with the Government working to stimulate industrial advancement from the National Automotive Policy 2020[1] and National Policy on Industry 4.0[2].
 


As innovation filters into every corner of the industry, it is important that Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2023 raises the profile of the local supply chain. The fair will go the extra mile to spotlight prospects in electric vehicles, the Internet of Things (IoT) and services and maintenance at dedicated areas across the exhibition floor. T




o illustrate, the electric vehicle area will showcase developments in charging solutions and infrastructure, battery technologies, management systems, automation, and mobility. The Hong Kong E-vehicles Business General Association and Asia Pacific Connected Vehicles Industry Association (endorsed by the Hong Kong Productivity Council and Trade, and Industrial Organisation Support Fund) will also host a pavilion in views of developing the electric vehicle market around Southeast Asia.
 


Other highlights include auto parts, manufacturing, accessories and customising, repair and diagnostics, digitalisation, and logistics.
 



New business models  


Looking to embrace the future automotive landscape, many Malaysian companies are pursuing new solutions to improve operational efficiency and performance. The show is set to address this need in the market by highlighting how participation from international players in the domestic supply chain can equally benefit local operators. Examples like Geely’s pre-emptive acquisition of Proton shares to leverage production and distribution channels demonstrate the keen interest of overseas investors operating through Malaysia to penetrate the ASEAN market[3].
 


During the show, companies will reveal the latest enabling technologies, software, smart manufacturing solutions and data management systems that have the ability to enhance the country’s competitiveness in the global supply chain.
 


TechAlliance is one such exhibitor bringing their aftermarket data solutions to the show. The company’s product range supports service providers through the information tools that optimise business processes and the access to technical data from manufacturers for repair, maintenance and diagnostics.
 





Talent development


Once again, Automechanika Kuala Lumpur will offer some 15 events to elaborate on opportunities as well as challenges surrounding the country’s overall advancement. A key topic at the forefront of industry discussion is how to build a workforce that can handle new technologies, business models, and consumer preferences.
 


Therefore, the Automotive Manufacturing and Transformation Conference will relate to developing local manpower by introducing the latest know-how and best practices about innovation and smart solutions. Discussions aim to reveal how companies can increase competitiveness and productivity by utilising robotics, IoT, AI technology and more.
 


In addition, with more vehicles on the road, the Collision Repair Training Workshop will address skills advancement in after-sales services. The workshop will guide participants through hands-on demonstrations and theoretical discussions. Sessions will cover the most up-to-date industry know-how related to electric vehicle inspection, maintenance, ADAS systems, advanced materials, and body repair, to name a few. Those that attend will receive an accredited certification to endorse their service centre or workshop upon completing the two-day course.
 


The Digitalisation and Electrification Conference will also explore new mobility concepts and sustainability in the industry. A panel of experts will delve into the latest digital solutions, trends and developments to reduce carbon output while increasing production capabilities and efficiency. This includes the integration of renewable energies and systems, lightweight materials, battery charging and infrastructure, and fleet and logistics management. Topics will also touch on skills and workforce development to cope with new energy vehicles.  
 


Other value-added activities during the three-day show include the Fleet Management Conference, AutoFest@KL, AutoNITZ Party and Match Up, to name a few.
 


For more information about Automechanika Kuala Lumpur and its wider onsite and online activities, please email the organiser at autoasia@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com.
 

The brand’s flagship show, Automechanika Frankfurt, will return to the stage from 10 to 14 September 2024. Meanwhile, other Automechanika events organised by Messe Frankfurt’s Greater China offices include:
 


-    Automechanika Shanghai – Shenzhen Edition: 20 to 23 December 2022
www.automechanika-shanghai.com


- Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City: 23 to 25 June 2023
www.automechanika-hcmc.com
 


- Suzanne Heston - photo Messe Frankfurt