Malaysian automotive component manufacturer, Sapura Industrial Berhad (SIB), has announced a new joint venture with Zhejiang Zhongze Precision Technology Co. Ltd (ZZ Tech) to start producing battery components – specifically high-precision storage battery casings – here in Malaysia. The two companies previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the same purpose.
Speaking on the announcement, SIB President of Industrial Business, Fazal Othman Mohd Ghazal, said, “This partnership reinforces SIB’s position as a trusted, high-quality manufacturing partner, not just within the automotive sector, but across a broader spectrum of precision components.”
The joint venture marks SIB’s entry into the energy storage and battery ecosystem. The company says that this diversification aligns with Malaysia’s National Energy Master Plan and the global shift to electrification and cleaner technologies.
ZZ Tech is a manufacturer from China, specialising in precision manufacturing of new energy battery structural components, precision metal parts, and micro-nano manufacturing solutions. They are also one of many suppliers for CATL – one of the world’s largest EV battery manufacturers.
ALSO READ: Kineta signs MOU with Charge+ on expanding Malaysia’s EV charging network
This joint venture will combine the expertise of both companies; SIB with its understanding of the Malaysian market alongside its precision manufacturing capabilities, while ZZ tech will bring along its technical know-how along with an established global customer network.
The companies say in a press release that the joint venture is well-positioned to meet the rising demand for energy storage solutions, not only within Malaysia but also across key export markets throughout the Southeast Asian region.
ZZ Tech Vice President, Li Xin, expressed, “We are excited to partner with Sapura Industrial Berhad to bring our precision engineering capabilities to Malaysia. SIB’s strong local expertise and track record in high-quality manufacturing make them an ideal collaborator as we expand our footprint in Southeast Asia.”
As announced previously, Perodua’s upcoming electric vehicle will be utilising batteries sourced from CATL. Could the new joint venture between SIB and ZZ Tech find its first customer in our national carmaker? Only time will tell.
ALSO READ: Final teaser of Perodua’s first EV – now B-segment SUV; battery leasing option confirmed
