Daihatsu-Perodua EV cooperation discussed as Malaysia and Japan deepen industrial ties

Potential cooperation between Daihatsu and Perodua in electric vehicle development was among the issues discussed as Malaysia and Japan moved to strengthen collaboration in strategic industries.

The subject was raised during a meeting between Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Japan’s Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, Takuo Komori, together with his delegation, in Kuala Lumpur.

According to Johari, the discussions included opportunities for Daihatsu and Perodua to work together on the development of EVs in Malaysia. However, no specific model, investment value, production timeline or technical partnership was announced.

The automotive discussion comes as Perodua continues to prepare for a more electrified line-up, while Daihatsu remains an important small-car specialist within the Toyota group. Any future cooperation could therefore have implications for Malaysia’s affordable EV segment, although the details remain open.

Beyond automotive development, both sides also discussed opportunities involving rare earth elements (REE), as well as Japan’s interest in participating in the ASEAN Power Grid.

Johari said Malaysia regards Japan as a strategic partner in strengthening supply chains, building technological capabilities and attracting higher-quality investment.

The minister also indicated that Malaysia wants its relationship with Japan to move beyond conventional trade and investment, towards industrial cooperation involving value-added activities, technology transfer and skilled employment.

For Perodua, the most relevant development is the reference to Daihatsu’s possible involvement in EV development. At this stage, it is best viewed as a discussion point rather than confirmation of a finished product or formal programme.

Still, with the Malaysian government encouraging local EV development and more affordable electrified vehicles, a Daihatsu-Perodua partnership could eventually provide the foundation for a compact, locally relevant EV. What remains to be seen is whether these early discussions will progress into a formal announcement.