BYD akan perkenal pelan EV Malaysia

China's electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD is reportedly planning to announce its next development in Malaysia within the coming week, amid uncertainties about whether it will collaborate with local partners or build its facilities independently. BYD's deputy president Liu Xueliang stated that the company will continue to explore cooperation with local partners to support the growth of Malaysia's new energy vehicle (NEV) industry.

"We will continue to explore with local partners on how we can better support the development of Malaysia's new energy vehicle industry. Of course, the development of our business in Malaysia has also expanded positively," he told Malaysian media after the Asia Pacific Story session titled "Stories of Industrial Integration." When asked if BYD would continue its cooperation with local partners or choose a different approach, Liu declined to comment, instead saying, "Wait a week and we will announce."

The announcement comes amid growing interest in BYD's next move in Malaysia, particularly regarding its local manufacturing strategy and potential joint ventures. The plan has garnered attention as Malaysia seeks to strengthen its EV ecosystem while encouraging greater investment and production along its automotive supply chain.

In May, it was reported that BYD was evaluating potential contract manufacturing partnerships with Inokom-owned Sime Motors' plant in Kulim, Kedah, as the Chinese carmaker reevaluated its manufacturing strategy in Malaysia. Progress on a BYD-built manufacturing plant in Tanjung Malim, Perak, seems to be on hold until next year. This follows a statement from the Malaysian Investment, Trade, and Industry Ministry (MITI) attempting to address rumors surrounding BYD's registration requirements, including fines and other related matters.

Meanwhile, since July 1, fully-built (CBU) EVs or those imported are required to meet a minimum cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) value of RM200,000 and minimum power output of 245 horsepower (180kw). This new requirement followed the expiration of Malaysia's special tax exemption for imported CBU EVs at the end of 2025. Liu said BYD has confirmed its commitment to long-term investment in Malaysia despite setbacks in advancing its plans, while identifying East Malaysia as a high-potential growth market with suitable vehicle models for expansion.

"We believe East Malaysia still has great potential for development, but first, we hope to have a suitable model for the Malaysia East market," he added. Liu said BYD's strategy is focused on Malaysia as a whole and not limited to any specific region. The session was held as part of the APMF 2026 Forum, organized by Xinhua News Agency and its partners under the theme "Building Paths to Shared Prosperity for the Asia-Pacific Community: Consensus and Media Action."

The forum took place ahead of the 33rd APEC Leaders' Meeting, hosted by Shenzhen from November 18 to 19.