China’s leading automotive manufacturing giant, SHB, has officially inaugurated its first overseas manufacturing facility at the Senai Airport City (SAC) Free Zone in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, marking a major milestone in the company’s international expansion journey. The new state-of-the-art facility represents an initial investment of RM600 million and underscores SHB’s long-term commitment to the Southeast Asian market.
The establishment of this facility signifies a strategic leap in SHB’s globalisation roadmap, strengthening its presence in the region while aligning with Malaysia’s vision to attract high-value, technology-driven investments. Once fully operational, the facility is expected to deliver an annual production capacity of up to 3 million wiper motor systems and 20 million seat motors, generating approximately RM1.5 billion in annual sales. By 2030, SHB aims to double its total sales to RM6 billion, positioning the Malaysia facility as a key cornerstone of its global supply network.
SHB Chief Executive Officer Carolyn Wang highlighted Malaysia’s pivotal role in the company’s expansion strategy.
“Malaysia plays a strategic role in SHB’s global growth roadmap. This facility is not only our first overseas manufacturing site but also a vital component of our ambition to become a truly global supplier to the world’s leading automakers. By leveraging Malaysia’s strong industrial ecosystem, skilled workforce, and strategic location, we are confident in delivering world-class quality and driving sustainable growth in the region,” she said.
Strategically located within the Senai Airport City Free Zone, the new facility benefits from a robust industrial ecosystem and excellent connectivity through air, sea, and land. The area’s professional management, efficient governance, and investor-friendly environment have enabled SHB to accelerate the construction and operational phases of the project.
Equipped with advanced testing laboratories, automated assembly lines, and cutting-edge production systems, the facility will cater to the needs of major global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and Tier-1 clients — including Tesla, General Motors (GM), BMW, Volkswagen (VW), Adient, Forvia, and others. The high degree of automation and precision engineering at the plant underscores SHB’s dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability in manufacturing.
In addition to enhancing SHB’s global production capabilities, the facility is also set to bring tangible benefits to Malaysia’s local economy. It is expected to create around 200 skilled engineering and technical jobs, while also sourcing from approximately 100 local suppliers. This move will strengthen Malaysia’s manufacturing supply chain, foster technology transfer, and boost Johor’s position as a regional manufacturing hub.
With its ready infrastructure, seamless logistics network, and established industrial ecosystem, Senai Airport City continues to attract leading multinational corporations (MNCs) seeking a conducive environment for growth and innovation. The synergy between Malaysia’s industrial policies and SHB’s global manufacturing ambitions makes this investment a landmark development for both the company and the region.
As SHB accelerates its international footprint, the Johor facility will serve as a launchpad for future expansion across Southeast Asia — paving the way for deeper collaborations, higher value manufacturing, and stronger integration into the global automotive supply chain.
