Is GWM Seeking To Build Its Own Plant in Malaysia?

The launch of locally assembled (CKD) Wey G9 at RM269,800 earlier today by GWM Malaysia has opened a broader conversation about the automaker’s long-term manufacturing footprint in Malaysia.

Speaking at the launch, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) YB Sim Tze Tzin congratulated GWM on the successful introduction of its flagship premium New Energy MPV and mooted the idea of the automaker eventually setting up its own manufacturing facility in Malaysia.

Sim said GWM, which is currently assembling vehicles locally via EP Manufacturing Bhd (EPMB), could consider emulating its operations in Thailand by establishing a wholly owned plant to secure a more entrenched and sustainable presence in the Malaysian market.

The remarks prompted questions from the media during the press conference on whether such a move is being considered by GWM.

Responding, GWM International Vice President James Yang said the possibility remains open as the company plans to introduce a wider variety of products in the years ahead.

He said GWM is currently focused on building its local supplier ecosystem before taking the next step in its manufacturing journey to support EPMB’s production.

“At this stage, we are working on strengthening our local supplier network. Once that foundation is in place, we will eventually look at setting up our own facility,” Yang said.

According to GWM Malaysia COO, En. Roslan Abdullah, the CKD GWM Wey G9, assembled by EPMB at its Pegoh plant in Melaka, currently features around 40% locally sourced parts. The model's overall localisation is expected to increase over time.

GWM is targeting annual sales of 5,000 units in Malaysia, with another 5,000 units earmarked for export to Thailand. A further two additional export markets are expected to be announced in due course.

The scale of the CKD and export programme underscores Malaysia’s growing role in GWM’s ASEAN strategy, with today’s launch also opening the door to deeper manufacturing investment in the future.