The 13th edition of Automechanika Kuala Lumpur concluded on a high note, offering a vibrant mix of sourcing, training, and entertainment that aligned with the latest global industry trends. With 310 exhibitors from 19 countries and regions and 13,017 visitors from 70 countries, the event highlighted the growing enthusiasm and dynamism within Malaysia’s automotive market.
The show’s success was evident not only in the numbers but also in the positive feedback from participants, who praised the event’s organisation, content, and opportunities for networking.
Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2024 served as a critical platform for business exchange, reflecting the industry’s shift towards automotive mobility solutions, including electrification, digitisation, and automation. The debut of the Automotive Mobility Solutions Zone was a key highlight, featuring cutting-edge technologies and solutions for new energy vehicles, battery systems, and manufacturing processes.
Ms Fiona Chiew, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, noted the significance of the show, saying, “I was delighted to see such strong levels of engagement from participants across numerous aspects of the show. As we continue to respond to the market’s needs, Automechanika Kuala Lumpur once again proved to be an invaluable platform for business exchange, education, and entertainment. It validates that changing to an annual show was the right move.”
The show’s international appeal was evident, with a substantial number of overseas participants. Exhibitors and visitors from across the globe converged on Kuala Lumpur to explore the Southeast Asian automotive market. For many, the event provided a gateway into the region’s automotive industry, offering valuable opportunities for networking and business development.
Mr Kenneth Tan, General Manager of Schmaco Auto Parts Industries Sdn Bhd, highlighted the importance of the show for local businesses: “The main purpose of participating at Automechanika Kuala Lumpur was to promote our brand and products. We think having such a professional exhibition in our local market is a great opportunity to spotlight Malaysian products in an international space. The exhibition provides a gateway that connected us with many overseas customers from different countries like Australia, China, India, and Indonesia.”
Exhibitors from outside Malaysia also found the event to be a strategic platform for expanding their presence in Southeast Asia.
Ms Phoebe Wang, CEO of Zero Mileage Lubrication Technology Co Ltd from China, shared her perspective: “We are very familiar with the Automechanika brand, which is why we decided to join the Kuala Lumpur show for the first time. As we are looking to expand our business in Southeast Asia, we believe that leveraging resources here is the fastest way to understand the local market and customer needs.”
Beyond business networking, Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2024 provided an immersive experience through a variety of engaging activities and workshops. The autoFEST@KL, with its showcase of customised and classic cars, motorsport simulators, and DIY workshops, was a particular highlight, drawing car enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Mr Mathew James, Marketing Coordinator of PartsCheck from Australia, appreciated the strategic placement of his booth near the Collision Repair Training Workshop, saying, “The show came at the right time for us as we have recently established a Malaysian base with a few shops piloting and using our products. It is great that we were placed next to the Collision Repair Training Workshop as many repairers are filtering through to our booth as well.”
The Collision Repair Training Workshop itself was a standout success, attracting over 200 participants who benefited from hands-on demonstrations and expert-led sessions. Mr Ng Lin Hong, Engineering Manager of Mae Handling System Sdn Bhd (Malaysia), found the workshop particularly valuable: “I found that this training course was very informative as the exposed car models showed the complexities inside a vehicle, which normally we cannot see from the outside. I learnt about the diagnostics and maintenance of EV batteries and safety. These topics are very crucial for our business as they are new to the market and can influence what we offer in workshops.”
Automechanika Kuala Lumpur’s ability to cater to a diverse audience, from industry professionals to car enthusiasts, was widely praised. The inclusion of interactive elements and entertainment options created a more inclusive environment that broadened the show’s appeal.
As Mr Alan Duckers, CEO of Lodge Initiatives Ltd from the UK, observed, “Over the years, I have found that the only way to make real lasting relationships and good business partners with overseas companies is making the effort to attend trade fairs such as Automechanika Kuala Lumpur. This is my first time here; it is very well organised and interesting to see how the organisers are reflecting consumer trends at the show, with the likes of TikTok and other interactive elements. It signals that they are acknowledging the direction of the industry in this regard.”
The success of Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2024 not only highlights the event’s importance as a hub for the automotive industry in Southeast Asia but also sets the stage for its continued growth. The next edition, scheduled for May 8 to 10, 2025, promises to build on this momentum, offering even more opportunities for industry professionals to connect, learn, and explore the latest innovations.
Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2024 delivered a comprehensive and engaging experience that resonated with participants from around the world. The event’s focus on innovation, global networking, and practical learning ensured that it remains a key fixture on the automotive industry calendar.
