Tesla announces investment and expansion into Malaysia

The company will set up its head office and service centre in Cyberjaya, Selangor, which will serve as the central hub for all corporate operations, marketing, and training.

Tesla has announced its strategic expansion into the Malaysian market. 

The company will set up its head office and service centre in Cyberjaya, Selangor, which will serve as the central hub for all corporate operations, marketing, training, customer support activities, and vehicle services. The space will be equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and staffed with trained Tesla technicians to offer after-sales services to customers.

Other key highlights of its operations in Malaysia will include: 

1. Vehicle importation: Tesla will introduce its lineup of electric vehicles (EVs) to Malaysian consumers, starting with its Model 3 and Model Y. Further models will be introduced in the future as the company aims to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of Malaysians. 
2. Supercharger network: To address the crucial aspect of charging infrastructure, Tesla will invest significantly in setting up a vast network of fast-charging and regular-charging stations across strategic locations in Malaysia. This initiative is aimed at providing EV owners with a convenient charging experience.
3. Experience centre: Tesla will also establish its experience centres in key metropolitan areas across Malaysia, where customers can explore and experience the latest electric vehicle models firsthand. These centres will serve as interactive spaces for potential buyers to gain insights into the benefits of electric mobility and receive personalised assistance from knowledgeable Tesla sales representatives.

Tesla held its official product launch event at the Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur, on 20 July 2023 (Thursday), attended by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) team and led by Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Investment Development), Lim Bee Vian.

Commenting on the expansion, MIDA stated: "Tesla has chosen Malaysia as its next destination for expansion, showcasing Malaysia's undeniable appeal as a top-notch investment hub in the region.

"At MIDA, we firmly believe that embracing electric mobility is not just essential for our sustainable future but also paves the way for revolutionary progress in the automotive industry. We are confident that Tesla will thrive as a key player in this transformative journey towards a greener and brighter tomorrow."

Malaysia's EV commitment 

This expansion is a direct response to the Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) Global Leaders initiative introduced by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI).

Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Aziz, also shared: “We are pleased that Tesla has chosen Malaysia as one of its destinations for their expansion in Southeast Asia. Their commitment to sustainable mobility is closely aligned with Malaysia’s vision for a greener future, and our New Industrial Master Plan 2030’s push for net zero.

"MITI is focused on transforming our industrial and investment landscape to not only attract companies like Tesla to help enhance our domestic suppliers’ position in global value chains, but also open up new ‘greener’ economic opportunities and create higher-paying jobs for Malaysians. Tesla’s presence here will also help raise Malaysia’s pro-business and pro-investment credentials on the global stage, and we look forward to welcoming more multinational investors that share our vision of developing a more sustainable, balanced and inclusive economic growth for our nation.”

In line with this, MIDA has also approved 58 projects totalling RM26.2bn in the EV and its related ecosystems from 2018 to March 2023. The approved investments span areas such as EV assembly, manufacturing of EV parts and components as well as its charging components.

MIDA Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Wira Arham Abdul Rahman, commented: “Tesla’s decision to choose Malaysia as its expansion destination highlights the country’s attractiveness as an investment hub in the region. We are pleased to support Tesla in establishing their operations and creating a strong presence in the Malaysian market. The growth of electric mobility will play a pivotal role in Malaysia’s sustainable development, and we believe that Tesla will play a crucial part in this journey.”

Tesla’s Regional Director, Isabel Fan, added: “Tesla’s mission is to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy. As part of Tesla’s commitment to Malaysia, we have unveiled a comprehensive development plan for experience centre, service and support, and charging infrastructure in the country, aimed at delivering a seamless Tesla ownership experience. We’re committed and excited to help driving a zero emission and greener future for Malaysia.”

Lead image / Malaysian Investment Development Authority