Humanoid robots are the ‘next frontier’ for Malaysia’s automotive suppliers, says deputy minister

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia's Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Sim Tze Tzin, has called on the automotive components industry to explore the potential of humanoid robotics as part of its future growth. The Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii) has been tasked with investigating opportunities in this emerging field, as it has strong ties to the automotive sector.

Sim emphasized that the government will provide incentives to companies that commit to local content, research and development, and technology transfer in the automotive industry, through the revised New Customised Incentive Mechanism (NCM). The NCM will be simplified to focus on localisation, with rewards including tax incentives and reduced excise duty for local talent development and R&D.

The current policy requires a minimum local content level of 30 per cent in the automotive industry. Sim also mentioned that the upcoming Global Automotive and Technology Expo (GATE 2026), currently in its second edition, aims to achieve RM500 million in sales with 10,000 visitors. The three-day event, held from August 26-28, is a platform for global technology giants, regional investors, and local suppliers to connect, exchange expertise, and establish strategic partnerships.