Kia Motors Corporation Confirms Collaboration With Bermaz Auto Berhad!

Kia Motors Corporation (“Kia”) and Bermaz Auto Bhd (“BAuto”) have confirmed their collaboration that was made in order to push the expansion of production of Kia vehicles in Malaysia. 

On top of that, a newly incorporated company will be established to manage the manufacturing of completely knocked down (CKD) Kia vehicles in the country. This company will be known as Kia Malaysia Sdn Bhd (“KMSB”). 

“After months of searching for the right partner, Kia is delighted to enter into the Kia JV and Kia Distributorship with BAuto. With BAuto’s proven capability in successfully building up automotive marques in Malaysia and the Philippines as well as their automotive manufacturing experience, we believe we have placed the Kia brand in good hands under the capable leadership of its Executive Chairman, Datuk Seri Ben Yeoh.” said Kia Asia Pacific president and chief executive officer Tae Hun (Ted) Lee.

There will be three models under the Kia JV line-up for the Malaysia market which include the Kia Seltos, Kia Carnival and a third model that is still in the process of being determined. Following that, Kia aims to make KMSB the regional manufacturing hub for their brands of vehicles not only in ASEAN countries but also various other potential markets. 

In addition to this, Kia has also chosen the subsidiary of BAuto, Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd (“DJMSB”) to be the brand new distributor of Kia vehicles in the country. 

Being the new distributor, DJMSB will not only have the power to distribute and sell Kia vehicles,  CKD and completely built up (CBU) but will also be able to manage the sales of genuine parts as well as in the provision of after-sales service and to build Kia’s brand reputation and awareness in Malaysia. BAuto has planned to improve Kia's aftersales services in order to regain its customers.

“We are pleased to be given this opportunity to undertake the Kia JV and Kia Distributorship with our partner, Kia under Hyundai Motor Group, which is Korea's second-largest multinational automotive manufacturer and currently the fifth-largest automotive manufacturer in the world. Kia marque vehicles are well-known for their stylish looks, packed with smart features, frequent facelifts and new launches that keep prospective buyers excited over its products. The Kia JV and Kia Distributorship will complement our existing Group automotive businesses and we look forward to a successful collaboration with Kia.” expressed BAuto executive chairman Datuk Seri Ben Yeoh.

Ted Lee further adds, “BAuto is a renowned public listed automotive company in Malaysia. It has a strong management team and good track record. Hence, Kia is confident that the Kia JV and Kia Distributorship will promote growth and bring synergistic benefits to both parties.”