SAIC Motor Malaysia has announced a major step forward in its expansion strategy with plans to begin local assembly (CKD) of MG vehicles in Malaysia by the first half of 2026. This development marks a key milestone for the brand as it works to bring MG products closer to Malaysian customers while reinforcing its regional growth and localisation efforts.

The announcement was made by Mr. Emory Qi, Managing Director of SAIC Motor Malaysia, during a special ceremony attended by YBhg Datuk Dr. Aminar Rashid, Chairman of the Malaysia Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), and YBhg En. Hamidon Bin Abdullah, Executive Chairman of EP Manufacturing Berhad (EPMB), alongside business partners, media, and key industry stakeholders.

Since its establishment just over a year ago, SAIC Motor Malaysia has rapidly built a strong presence nationwide with 26 MG Motor Authorised Dealerships, including three showrooms in Sarawak and three more opening soon. Its current line-up of five models—highlighted by the all-electric MG S5 EV—reflects the company’s commitment to green mobility. The success of the MG Cyberster, the brand’s striking all-electric roadster, has also positioned Malaysia as MG’s best-performing market in the Asia and Oceania region.

“This remarkable journey would not have been possible without the support of our dealers, business partners, media, and colleagues,” said Emory Qi. “Local assembly will be a key milestone that brings us closer to customers while reinforcing our role as a regional hub for MG.”

The upcoming CKD operations will be carried out in partnership with EPMB at its Melaka facility. The plant will be capable of assembling battery electric vehicles (BEV), hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), and internal combustion engine (ICE) models under one roof—an approach designed to enhance efficiency and flexibility.

According to EPMB Executive Chairman En. Hamidon Abdullah, “We are pleased to partner with SAIC Motor – our second state-owned OEM partner – to assemble MG models in Malaysia. One of these will be the first electric vehicle locally assembled at our Melaka plant. Through collaboration with local suppliers, we aim to accelerate localization, including battery pack assembly, to deliver greater value and competitiveness.”

The local assembly programme is guided by three key priorities: affordability, faster delivery, and stronger localisation. SAIC Motor’s commitment aligns with its global green energy roadmap unveiled at Auto Shanghai 2025. To ensure global standards, every locally assembled MG vehicle will undergo SAIC’s Quality Sustenance Programme, ensuring top-tier quality for Malaysian customers.

SAIC Motor Malaysia also highlighted Malaysia’s strategic advantages for localisation. The nation’s 50-year friendship with China has laid a solid foundation for industrial collaboration, while its geographic position within ASEAN makes it an ideal hub for regional distribution. The investment is expected to generate job opportunities, strengthen local vendor capabilities, and pave the way for future R&D initiatives.

“Today’s announcement is only the beginning,” Emory concluded. “Together with our partners and local talent, we are building a future where innovation, sustainability, and opportunity drive Malaysia forward with MG.”