BMW Group Malaysia Partners STDC to Shape Malaysia’s EV Workforce

BMW Group Malaysia is accelerating its push to develop local EV talent through a new partnership with the Selangor Technical Development Centre (STDC). 

The two have teamed up under the BMW NextGT programme to train and certify a new generation of automotive technicians equipped for both conventional and electrified vehicle technologies.

Set to launch in 2026, the programme will see STDC trainers undergo specialised hands-on training under BMW’s global Technician Qualification Framework before transferring that expertise to vocational students. The goal is to produce world-class technicians ready to meet the fast-growing demands of Malaysia’s EV industry.

BMW Group Malaysia MD Benjamin Nagel said the partnership reflects the company’s belief that future mobility begins with skilled people. “We’re entering the most transformative era in automotive history. By investing in education through the NextGT programme, we’re preparing Malaysian talent to lead the EV transition,” he said.

Meanwhile, Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Bin Shari praised the collaboration as a model for how industry and government can build a sustainable workforce. “With BMW’s support, Selangor is strengthening its position as a regional hub for advanced automotive technology and innovation,” he said.

The BMW NextGT programme will begin with Auto Bavaria, Millennium Welt and Quill Automobiles as initial dealer partners, expanding to more BMW dealers from 2027 onwards.

NextGT builds on BMW Group Malaysia’s established training initiatives such as the BMW Technical Training Programme (BTTP) and the High Voltage Expert (HVE) certification. Both certifications will be run by the BMW Group’s Regional Training Centre, where the HVE programme has been instrumental in developing Malaysia’s EV service expertise for BMW i vehicles.

Through NextGT and ongoing initiatives, BMW Group Malaysia continues to drive its “Heritage in Motion” philosophy, advancing innovation, empowering local talent and shaping Malaysia’s electrified future.