Sunway University economics professor Dr Yeah Kim Leng noted that a fruitful discussion between the global EV giant and the Malaysian leader, expected to take place within this week, will also lead to further commitments that could benefit the Malaysian economy in general.Regardless of the nature and value of the investment that Tesla intends to bring to Malaysia, Yeah said any forthcoming commitment arising from the meeting will provide the Malaysian EV industry with a big boost.
"This could open up more opportunities for the suppliers, service providers as well as parts and components manufacturers to actively engage with the EV industry,” he told Bernama.Last Friday , Anwar, who is also the finance minister, announced that he will be sitting down with Musk to explore ways for the mega EV company to further its investments in Malaysia.
"Malaysia’s FDI numbers will continue to edge up should the meeting result in Musk or any of his numerous frontier projects finding a footing in the country,” he added.Meanwhile, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz reaffirmed that the potential collaboration between Malaysia and Tesla is not only limited to the EV sector but may lead to other sectors as well.
Tesla, an EV designer and manufacturer headquartered in Austin, Texas, in the United States, will be making its official debut in Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur on July 20.Currently, the nearest Tesla official service centre is located in Singapore and owners from the Greentech leasing programme have been sending their cars back to Hong Kong for major work.