BMW launches RM130m distribution centre12 May 2017, by The Sun Daily
JOHOR BARU: BMW Group Malaysia yesterday launched its new regional parts distribution centre in Senai, Johor Baru, replacing the group’s existing facility located within the Free Trade Zone of the Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP).
The RM130 million facility was set up to be a new logistics warehouse and parts distribution centre for the premium automaker, supporting over 23 countries in the region including Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia.
"This new facility is three times bigger than our facility in PTP previously, with over 400,000 ready spare parts available," its CEO and managing director Han Sang Yun said at the launching ceremony yesterday.
The new facility would benefit from the strategic location and modern infrastructure as well as port and airport access found in the Free Industrial Zone of the Senai International Airport.
Its senior vice-president of Asia Pacific and South Africa Hendrik von Kuenheim said the group believes Malaysia will be a key market that supports its strategic business direction in expanding its footprint in the region.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Investment Development Authority CEO Datuk Azman Mahmud, who attended the ceremony, said the group’s investment in the distribution centre reflects investors’ confidence in continuing to invest in the country. He said the new centre is also expected to create 120 new jobs.
"So far, they have engaged 55 local service providers with an annual contract value of more than RM25 million. The exchange of technological know-how will surely contribute to developing a more innovative and talented workforce," Azman added.
Furthermore, he said the opening of the new centre is also timely in capturing the growing market opportunities in the region, especially with Malaysia’s existing strategic free trade agreements and the upcoming Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, as it will increase market accessibility across its member countries.