Proton has formalized a strategic collaboration with the Malaysia Automotive Robotics & IoT Institute (MARii) during the 2025 Global Automotive and Technology Expo (GATE 2025), marking a significant step in Malaysia’s automotive research and development landscape. The agreement lays out a five-year partnership focusing on advanced testing facilities, structured R&D exposure, and the development of next-generation automotive technologies.

Representing MARii at the document exchange ceremony was CEO Azrul Reza Aziz, while Proton was represented by Desmond Pinto, Vehicle Programme Executive for the Proton Saga. MARii Chairman Datuk Aminar Rashid and Proton Vice President of Corporate Strategy Ainol Azmil served as standing witnesses to the signing.

A key aspect of the collaboration is the integration of Proton facilities into the National Automotive Test Centre (NATC). Proton will designate its Semi High-Speed Test Track in Shah Alam and its R&D test lab in Tanjong Malim as part of this shared industry-wide facility. In addition, both MARii and Proton will collaborate to construct a new NATC facility, with both parties contributing to the development costs. The NATC will be accessible not only to Proton but also to other OEMs, research institutes, academia, and industry stakeholders, with operational oversight led by MARii.

The agreement also prioritizes talent development. A total of 200 Proton R&D engineers and technical personnel will receive hands-on exposure through a structured programme aimed at nurturing the next generation of automotive innovators, particularly in the field of new energy vehicles (NEV). This initiative supports Malaysia’s broader ambition of transforming the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV) into a regional hub for NEV development and production.

“MARii is committed to supporting the national industrial agenda outlined in the National Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) and the National Automotive Policy 2020 (NAP 2020). This collaboration with Proton strengthens Malaysia’s capabilities in next-generation mobility through shared testing facilities, structured R&D development, and expanded engineering capacity for new energy vehicles,” said Azrul Reza Aziz.

Dr. Li Chunrong, CEO of Proton, added, “Our agreement with MARii underscores Proton’s dedication to the Malaysian automotive industry while supporting the objectives of the National Industrial Master Plan. The NATC presents a tremendous opportunity for advancing technology and developing new models, helping Malaysia realize its ambitions as a regional automotive leader.”