Proton’s EV factory to start production this September, creating 200 job opportunities

Proton’s electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing plant in Tanjung Malim is nearing completion and is set to begin operations this September.

Within six months of the groundbreaking ceremony held in February, the construction of this facility has reached 90.4%, with equipment installation at 83.5%, resulting in an overall project progress of 86.9%.

The factory will be used for assembling various models from the Global Modular Architecture (GMA) platform, starting with the Proton e.MAS 7, followed by the e.MAS 5.

With an initial production capacity of 20,000 units per year, the facility can expand to accommodate up to 45,000 units in line with the growth of domestic and international demand.

To facilitate this, each production line can be enhanced with several stations featuring a modular testing line capable of supporting platform variations or the production of multiple model types.

Logistics, utilities, storage systems, and digital traceability tools have also been optimized to support scaling for various models for both local and export markets.

Unlike the existing factory, this EV production facility has a new layout specifically designed for battery assembly, high-voltage safety measures, and electrical testing processes.

Proton is also training 30 non-executive workers with Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) and diploma backgrounds before the full-scale production begins this September.

This EV factory is expected to generate over 200 new job opportunities for the local community, particularly in the fields of EV industrialization and technical services.

Additionally, Proton is collaborating strategically with Politeknik Sultan Azlan Shah (PSAS) to strengthen local talent, where Proton contributes technical syllabus input and supports internship initiatives.

Geely, as Proton’s partner, provides technical guidance on the production systems, assists in equipment selection, and positions experts to support installation and trial testing.

Furthermore, Geely facilitates overseas training for Proton staff to ensure the new facility meets global EV manufacturing standards.

According to Wan Yousry bin Mohamed, Chief Manufacturing Engineer at PROTON, “This factory represents PROTON’s transformation and our unwavering commitment to a sustainable, high-tech future.

“We are also laying the groundwork for Malaysia’s leadership in the regional EV landscape by strategically expanding our EV offerings into new international markets. This is a monumental step for both the company and the country, and we are excited to see the first Malaysian-made EV roll off the production line and onto our roads,” he added.