PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s electric vehicle (EV) industry is on the rise. Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong sees China as a valuable model for growth. He recently shared his impressions on the growth of China’s EV industry and what Malaysia can learn from it.
Dr. Wee, the MCA president, paid a visit to Liuzhou, China. He was struck by how the push for vocational training has produced many skilled workers. These workers, in turn, have fueled the Chinese EV industry. He took the opportunity to visit Liuzhou while attending the China-Asean Cross-border Supply Chain Innovation and Development Forum in Nanning. He shared his experience in a Facebook post on Thursday (Aug 10).
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Deputy Mayor Tang Zhengguo of Liuzhou warmly welcomed him. Dr. Wee enjoyed the local cuisine, including the area’s famous “luo shi fen.” More importantly, he visited the Wuling Car Manufacturing Factory and Industrial Museum.
His visit provided a glimpse into how vocational training is thriving in Liuzhou. The training programs produce thousands of skilled workers for China. This impressed Dr. Wee.
“Malaysia has much to learn from Liuzhou,” he noted. “Especially in terms of the development of electric vehicles and the training of skilled workers.”
The visit wasn’t a chance occurrence. The city’s mayor Zhang Zhuang had previously invited Dr. Wee. The invitation came after Dr. Wee officiated Liuzhou’s Key Industries Investment Promotion Conference in Malaysia on July 8.
Malaysia’s EV Industry: Challenges and Opportunities
The rise of the EV industry in Malaysia presents several opportunities. It could lead to a cleaner environment, job creation, and the development of new technologies. But there are also challenges. Understanding China’s model may provide essential insights.
- Skilled Workers: Dr. Wee’s observations in Liuzhou highlight the importance of vocational training. Skilled workers are essential to the growth of the EV industry. Malaysia must focus on training and education.
- Infrastructure: China’s progress in the EV industry also includes infrastructure development. Charging stations, battery technology, and other facilities are necessary. Malaysia must invest in these areas.
- Policy and Regulations: The Chinese government supports the EV industry with incentives and regulations. Malaysia can take cues from China to create favorable policies.
- Market Development: China has one of the largest EV markets in the world. Marketing strategies, consumer awareness, and incentives can drive market growth in Malaysia.
- Collaboration: Dr. Wee’s visit signifies the potential for collaboration between Malaysia and China. Joint ventures, technology transfer, and mutual learning can boost the industry.
- Sustainability: China’s focus on green energy aligns with global sustainability goals. Malaysia must consider environmental impacts while developing the EV industry.
Dr. Wee’s visit to China opens a window into the thriving world of electric vehicles. The insights gained can help steer Malaysia’s EV industry in the right direction. Vocational training, infrastructure investment, and effective policies are vital. Collaboration with China and other nations can accelerate growth.
As Malaysia looks to become a significant player in the EV market, the lessons from China can be a roadmap. It’s about embracing innovation, developing skills, and creating an ecosystem that supports growth.
The news is based on The Star.
