Malaysia’s automotive and motorsport communities will converge at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park in Serdang (MAEPS) on 7 and 8 November 2026 for the inaugural Malaysia Auto Xpo (MAX) 2026. Positioned as a celebration of automotive excellence, motorsport performance, customisation and innovation, MAX 2026 is also aiming to use the influence of car culture to promote greater road safety and awareness among enthusiasts and the wider public.

Conceptualised and owned by Alaf Sentosa Sdn Bhd and organised by Element X Strategies, the team behind Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur from 2023 to 2025, the event is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia. Rather than being a conventional motor show, MAX 2026 will combine four major platforms under one roof: the Malaysia Auto Xpo itself, International Auto Modified (IAM), Tempatan Fest and Driftnutz.

IAM has been held in Malaysia since 2011 and has since expanded to cities across Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore and the United States. Tempatan Fest, meanwhile, celebrates Malaysian creativity and culture through streetwear, vintage collectibles, creative businesses, visual arts and independent music. Driftnutz completes the line-up with its focus on drifting, having organised a series of fun drift events featuring both local and international drivers since its establishment in 2015.

According to Alaf Sentosa Sdn Bhd Chief Executive Officer Jason Yap, MAX 2026 is intended to bring together the different sides of automotive culture while also providing a platform for the industry and community. “MAX 2026 is envisioned to bring together the many diverse components of car culture, motorsports and lifestyle under one huge show. We want this to not only become a powerful platform to give the business side of the industry a huge boost, but use its influence to champion a more responsible and safer automotive culture nationwide,” he said.

Visitors can expect a packed programme covering everything from modified and performance cars to classic vehicles, motorsports and automotive trading. Among the attractions will be a large display of customised cars featuring local and international tuners, an auto styling competition, exclusive tuner unveilings, a dedicated diecast collector area, sim racing competitions, a car auction, auto trading activities and gatherings involving various car clubs.

Performance enthusiasts will also have plenty to look forward to, with a dyno challenge searching for Malaysia’s highest-horsepower car, alongside drifting demonstrations and drift taxi rides. The event will also extend beyond cars, with an automotive race queens fashion show featuring Malaysian designers and local fashion brands, the Miss Auto Culture Malaysia pageant, live stage performances and a large food fiesta.

One particularly distinctive feature will be a batik car-wrapping project, which aims to combine Malaysia’s cultural heritage with automotive creativity. MAX 2026 will also serve as the launch platform for an ambitious Exclusive Car Tour to Japan. The planned journey will cover approximately 9,000 km over 35 days, taking participants from Kuala Lumpur through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, China and South Korea before reaching the Liberty Walk headquarters in Tokyo.

The tour will be led by a specially built car, which will remain a surprise until its unveiling at MAX 2026. The vehicle will be driven by MAX 2026 Ambassador Vera T., a motorsport lifestyle creator and racing driver. Organisers have also hinted at several additional surprises and “easter eggs” to be revealed during the event.

Yap added that MAX 2026 is intended to be more than simply a gathering for car enthusiasts, with this year’s event serving as an introduction to an even larger show planned for the future. “MAX 2026 is a celebration of everything automotive and much more – from modified cars, tuners and custom car builders to motorsports elements, classic cars and the trading/selling of motor vehicles. This event gathers industry players, car enthusiasts and the community to experience an exciting automotive experience. “This year’s show will serve as an introduction to a bigger and more iconic show next year and for years to come. It is also about giving back to the community, enthusiasts and the public,” he said.

For those planning to attend, presale tickets are priced at RM25 for a single one-day pass, RM45 for a two-person one-day pass and RM80 for a group of four one-day passes. Children below 10 years old will enjoy free admission. Normal ticket pricing will be RM35 for a single one-day pass, with the event taking place on 7 and 8 November 2026. Tickets are available through the official ticketing platforms, while more information about MAX 2026 and its programme can be found through the event’s official website and social media channels.