KUALA LUMPUR: The Automotive High-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjung Malim, Perak, has realised RM7 billion in investments since 2018.
Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Sim Tze Tzin told the Dewan Rakyat today that the amount represented 23.3 per cent of AHTV's projected development value of RM30 billion by 2035, including investments by Geely.
"Based on current planning, total investments related to the AHTV ecosystem are estimated at RM30 billion by 2035. This includes investments already realised, ongoing investments and planned future developments.
"This figure should therefore be viewed as an overall estimate for AHTV development, rather than the total value of investments realised to date," he said in reply to Tan Kok Wai (PH-Cheras), who asked for details of projects delivered under Geely's US$10 billion investment commitment in Tanjung Malim.
DRB-HICOM and Geely entered into a strategic partnership on June 23, 2017, initially focusing on Proton's recovery and redevelopment before expanding to include AHTV.
Sim said AHTV had also recorded significant growth in employment and the number of companies operating within its ecosystem.
"The workforce, which stood about 2,000 in 2018, has grown to 9,300 this year and is projected to reach 22,800 by 2030," he said.
The number of companies operating at AHTV had increased from 11 in 2022 to 35, comprising component suppliers and logistics service providers.
Among the key achievements was the upgrading of Proton's manufacturing facilities, including expanded production capacity and enhanced capabilities in metal stamping, painting, body assembly, and trim and final assembly, as well as the production of advanced engines and transmissions.
"The development of a 12-megawatt-peak solar farm within Proton's plant premises also supports energy efficiency in manufacturing operations.
"For 2025 and this year, industrial facility development and upgrades will cover an electric vehicle production plant, enhanced engine production capabilities, metal stamping facilities, new logistics centres and warehouses, and research and development testing laboratories.
"These developments have the potential to strengthen production capabilities, innovation and technology transfer, while laying the foundation for the expansion of the local automotive supply chain," he said.
Sim said AHTV's long-term success would be measured not only by investment and vehicle production capacity, but also by its contribution to the wider domestic automotive industry.
This included increasing local companies' participation and technological capabilities, strengthening the domestic supply chain, reducing reliance on imported components and developing competitive, high-tech products for export markets.
He said AHTV must continue to prioritise investments that generate domestic value, develop local vendors and expand exports to ensure the benefits were felt across the industry and national economy.
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