KUCHING: EPR Mobilus GR JV Sdn Bhd (EMGJV), the System Package Contractor 1 (SPC1) for the Kuching Urban Transportation System (KUTS) project, held a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and Letter of Intent (LOI) presentation ceremony recently at the Kuching ART Assembly Facility (KAAF), Demak Industrial Park here.
This partnership aims to leverage local talent and expertise in the assembly of the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) project, enhancing the skills of local companies and supporting regional economic growth, it said in a joint statement.
“EMGJV, as SPC1 of the KUTS project, is committed to strengthening relationships with local institutions and industries to build a sustainable ecosystem,” it said.
The event was witnessed by Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) Deputy General Manager of Rakayah Hamdan, Sarawak Metro CEO Mazli Mustaffa, Mobilus Sdn Bhd chairperson Monica Lai and EMGJV CEO Chan Chee Kian.
Chan in his speech expressed enthusiasm for the project’s localisation efforts.
“This facility is a testament to our commitment to building local capacity. We are on track to begin Completely Knocked Down (CKD) manufacturing by early Q2 of 2025. These milestones demonstrate our progress and dedication to creating a sustainable local manufacturing ecosystem,” he said.
Chan also highlighted plans to develop vendors, strengthen local capacity, and create new market access opportunities. “Our aim is to foster a dynamic local ecosystem that aligns with our long-term goals,” he added.
He mentioned the successful launch of a Mandarin language course in collaboration with UNIMAS, with plans for a second batch soon.
Meanwhile, Mazli commended EMGJV for its efforts to involve local and Bumiputera companies, as well as higher learning institutions.
“By creating opportunities for local participation, we are adding greater value to the KUTS project, in line with our Premier’s vision. This collaboration will help establish a sustainable supply chain and support Sarawak’s goal of becoming an advanced economy by 2030,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of knowledge and technology transfer through these partnerships, which will further enhance the involvement of local Bumiputera companies.
The event also celebrated EMGJV’s collaboration with Sarawak’s industry players, higher learning institutions, and technical training centres under Sarawak Metro Sdn Bhd’s Socio-Economic Enhancement Development (SEED) Programme.
The collaboration includes partnerships with Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak, and Sarawak Skills.
Thirteen local and Bumiputera companies were also involved in the exchange of MOUs and the receiving of LOIs.
