SUNGAI SIPUT (Sept 28): Perak is in discussions with several local and foreign investors who have expressed their interest in investing in the automotive ecosystem at the Automotive High-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjong Malim.

State Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development Committee chairman Loh Sze Yee said the state government, together with the federal government, is always on the lookout for potential investors interested in exploring investment opportunities in the area.

However, he said the names of the companies could not be disclosed as yet as some companies, particularly publicly listed ones, were required to comply with certain requirements before making investment-related announcements.

“We are in discussions with them and we will announce them once they come in,” he told reporters after officiating the 2026 Sungai Siput International Tomoi Championship at Arena Pavilion Sungai Siput on Sunday night.

Loh said land availability is one of the key factors to consider when attracting investment to Tanjong Malim, in addition to ensuring that selected investors are compatible with the area's automotive ecosystem.

“The state government is looking for investors that fit into the automotive ecosystem. We do not want them to come from other ecosystems that may not be suitable for the area,” he said.

On developments related to BYD Malaysia, Loh said the company had announced collaborations with existing local companies or vendors for vehicle assembly operations in the country.

He emphasised that the development does not affect the state and federal government’s engagement with other potential investors looking to enter the Tanjong Malim automotive ecosystem.

“We welcome everyone to come to Perak, but this also needs to take into account the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry’s (Miti) overall planning for Malaysia.

“For example, in the context of Tanjong Malim, it may be led by Geely. Geely also has many subsidiaries that are interested, but they need to find the right time to invest in the area,” he said.

Loh added that Proton is also actively increasing its capacity for the export market, while increasing its electric vehicle activities for the domestic market before subsequently expanding into export markets.

Uploaded by Tham Yek Lee