Loke wants Transport Expo Asia to become permanent biennial event, next edition in 2028

KUALA LUMPUR, October 20 — Transport Minister Anthony Loke expressed his desire for Transport Expo Asia (TXA) to become a permanent biennial event, with the next edition slated for 2028. The event aims to showcase transport technologies, innovation, and international best practices while supporting Malaysia's transport industry development.

Speaking at the expo's opening ceremony, Loke emphasized the importance of the exhibition in connecting public policy with industry innovation, translating collaboration into improved transport services, stronger trade links, and new economic opportunities. The 2026 TXA, held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), brought together 410 exhibitors and technology innovators across land, aviation, maritime, and logistics sectors.

Loke attributed the idea for TXA to the ministry's co-organising of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA), noting that LIMA's growing popularity and limited exhibition space prompted the ministry to launch its own event. This year's expo featured autonomous vehicle demonstrations and strategic agreements, expected to bring tangible improvements in efficiency, emissions reduction, safety, and reliability.

Loke also highlighted the potential for Malaysian companies to benefit from the expo by connecting with local businesses and utilizing the expo to support domestic manufacturing and component supply for rail, aviation, and road transport. While no target economic impact was set for the first large-scale edition, several memoranda of understanding and agreements were expected to be signed during the three-day event, encouraging logistics companies and SMEs to explore the technologies showcased and pursue potential business opportunities.