CYBERJAYA, Oct 15 -- Driven by strong domestic performance, SAIC Motor Malaysia Sdn Bhd -- the official distributor of MG cars in Malaysia -- today announced plans to begin local assembly of MG's first all-electric model, the MG S5 EV, in Melaka by the first half of 2026.
SAIC Motor Malaysia managing director Emory Qi said the announcement marked a significant milestone in bringing MG products closer to Malaysian customers, while reinforcing the brand's growth across the region.
"The strong reception of the MG Cyberster has made Malaysia the best-performing market in Asia and Oceania (excluding China) for the brand's iconic all-electric roadster.
"Local assembly will be a key milestone that brings us closer to customers while reinforcing our role as a regional hub for MG.
"Today's announcement is only the first step in our journey to drive Malaysia forward with MG," he said during the official signing ceremony MG local assembly held at Dash Box Hotel, Cyberjaya here.
For local assembly, SAIC Motor Malaysia will partner with EP Manufacturing Berhad (EPMB).
Also present during today's event were Malaysia Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii) chairman Datuk Aminar Rashid and EPMB executive chairman Hamidon Abdullah.
Highlighting the company's commitment to accelerating localisation, Qi said several factors made Malaysia an ideal and strategic location for the initiative.
"The 50-year friendship between Malaysia and China provides a strong foundation of trust and collaboration, while Malaysia's strategic location within Asean positions it as a natural hub for regional distribution and growth.
"Beyond vehicle assembly, the investment will create jobs, strengthen the vendor ecosystem and lay the groundwork for future research and development in Malaysia," he said.
He added the Melaka facility will be capable of assembling green energy vehicles including Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) and Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV), as well as internal combustion engine (ICE) models under one roof.
With the local assembly of MGS5 EV soon to commence, Qi said SAIC's robust inspection and certification processes will ensure that every vehicle delivered to Malaysians meets the highest standards of performance, reliability, and safety.
"Most importantly, these vehicles will be assembled by Malaysians for Malaysians," he said.