The Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), in collaboration with the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and Tourism Malaysia, has officially launched the ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 (AUD 2025). The momentous flag-off ceremony took place at Menara MITI, officiated by YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, marking the start of an extraordinary 9,000 km journey across nine ASEAN countries. This landmark initiative aims to promote sustainable mobility, cross-border collaboration, and innovation within the automotive sector.
As Malaysia takes the helm as ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, the ASEAN Unity Drive underscores the nation’s leadership in driving green and smart mobility. The convoy, featuring the official vehicle Proton e.MAS 7, symbolizes Malaysia’s commitment to electric mobility and sustainable transportation solutions. The drive supports both the national EV agenda and ASEAN’s broader sustainability goals, positioning the region as a leader in next-generation transportation.
YB Senator Tengku Zafrul expressed his pride in the initiative, emphasizing how it represents the collective strength of the region in advancing sustainable mobility while promoting economic integration and environmental stewardship.
“This initiative is a crucial step towards a future-ready automotive industry that benefits the entire region,” said YB Senator Tengku Zafrul.
The AUD 2025 convoy will traverse two distinct routes, both converging at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025 (MAS 2025) at MAEPS, Serdang from 9th to 15th May 2025.
- North Route: Starts from Hanoi, Vietnam, passing through Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, before reaching Malaysia.
- South Route: Begins from Manila, Philippines, traveling through Sabah, Brunei, Sarawak, Indonesia, Singapore, before arriving in Malaysia.
This dual-route approach symbolizes ASEAN’s dedication to cross-border connectivity, eco-friendly transportation, and regional economic collaboration.
Upon arrival at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, the AUD 2025 convoy will join a grand celebration of automotive innovation. MAS 2025 will feature:
- Cutting-edge EV and ICE technologies.
- New model launches and immersive test drive experiences.
- Women in Automotive, spotlighting female pioneers in the industry.
- Automotive Career & Education Day, including a career fair and the ASEAN Automotive Debate.
With eight exhibition halls and key industry networking opportunities, MAS 2025 will serve as a vibrant hub for business, investment, and policy discussions, strengthening ASEAN’s automotive ecosystem on a global scale.
The event is set to host over 50 automotive and technology brands, including Proton, BMW, Toyota, Volkswagen, BYD, Audi, and many more. The impressive lineup reflects the commitment of industry leaders to foster sustainable mobility and technological advancements.
As MARii CEO Azrul Reza Aziz emphasized, the ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 is more than just a journey; it is a bold step towards harmonizing cross-border EV infrastructure and fostering investment in sustainable mobility. By building an integrated EV network and aligning regulatory frameworks, ASEAN is positioning itself as a global leader in EV adoption and innovation.
MAS 2025 is expected to draw an even larger audience than its previous edition, which attracted over 230,000 visitors. With its focus on innovation, sustainability, and economic growth, the event is set to become the definitive automotive showcase of the year.
Together, the ASEAN Unity Drive 2025 and Malaysia Autoshow 2025 symbolize a collective vision for the future of mobility—one that champions innovation, unity, and progress across the Southeast Asian region. 
