KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 21): The National Automotive Policy 2020 (NAP 2020) is consistent with the government’s policies to advance the Malaysian automotive ecosystem to the next level, according to Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Nasional Sdn Bhd (Perodua) president and chief executive officer Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad (pictured).

In a statement today, he said this is apparent in the continued support for component localisation, which is the backbone of the country’s automotive industry.

Zainal Abidin said over the past decade, Perodua purchased a total of RM43.5 billion worth of components from local suppliers — with RM5.4 billion last year alone.

“This year we expect to spend nearly RM6 billion on locally-sourced automotive components.

“This volume sustains and fortifies the Malaysian automotive ecosystem, contributing to the economy, jobs and nation-building,” he said.

Zainal Abidin said the government was consistent in its commitment to further the energy-efficient vehicle (EEV) programme, in which many players have invested.

“Perodua is Malaysia’s first and largest EEV manufacturer. We have produced and sold over 800,000 EEVs to date.

“Where Industry 4.0 is concerned, Perodua is a firm believer of technology convergence, particularly the integration of communication technology into automotive applications. We have already made considerable leaps in this area with regard to our products,” he said.

On autonomous technology, Zainal Abidin said Perodua, guided by its technical and technology partner Daihatsu Motor Company of Japan, has laid the foundation with its Advanced Safety Assist (ASA) suite of driver assistance systems and has made it accessible to the masses.

“This technology will be further improved in line with our aim to provide Malaysians with mobility that offers even greater safety and value,” he said.

For more stories on the NAP 2020, click here.