After many months of rumours and speculations, Bermaz Auto (BAuto) is now confirmed to be taking over the Kia franchise here in Malaysia, through a new a “strategic partnership” with Kia Motor Corporation.
As part of the agreement, a new joint-venture company – Kia Malaysia Sdn Bhd – will be formed to carry out the local assembly operations for complete knock-down (CKD) Kia vehicles here in Malaysia.
Meanwhile, Dinamikjaya Motors (a Bermaz Auto subsidiary) has been appointed as the distributor for the South Korean brand on our shores, taking over the role from Naza Kia Malaysia.
Three models have already been planned for local assembly here in Malaysia, including the Kia Seltos and Carnival, with a third model to be announced in due time.
Kia Asia Pacific President and CEO, Tae Hun (Ted) Lee said, “After months of searching for the right partner, Kia is delighted to enter into the Kia JV and Kia Distributorship with BAuto. With BAuto’s proven capability in successfully building up automotive marques in Malaysia and the Philippines as well as their automotive manufacturing experience, we believe we have placed the Kia brand in good hands under the capable leadership of its Executive Chairman, Dato’ Sri Ben Yeoh.”
BAuto Executive Chairman, Dato’ Sri Ben Yeoh added: “We are pleased to be given this opportunity to undertake the Kia JV and Kia Distributorship with our partner, Kia under Hyundai Motor Group, which is Korea’s second-largest multinational automotive manufacturer and currently the fifth-largest automotive manufacturer in the world.
“The Kia JV and Kia Distributorship will complement our existing Group automotive businesses, and we look forward to a successful collaboration with Kia.”
The announcement comes just months after Peugeot was brought under the stewardship of Berjaya Auto Alliance SB, a new joint-venture company formed between Bermaz Auto and Berjaya Corporation. Kia will be the third brand associated with BAuto in Malaysia after Mazda and the aforementioned Peugeot.
