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KUALA LUMPUR (Jan 27): Malton Bhd has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with China’s Dongguan Benling Vehicle Technology Co Ltd (BENLG) to explore potential collaboration to introduce electric motorcycle assembly operations and a distribution ecosystem in Malaysia.
In a filing with Bursa Malaysia on Monday (Jan 26), the property developer said the discussions will focus on feasibility studies and market assessments for electric motorcycles in Malaysia and the wider Southeast Asian region.
Malton said BENLG is assessing the possibility of establishing a presence in the Malaysian electric motorcycle market and is seeking a local partner for the initiative.
The group added that the partnership aligns with its diversification strategy into green mobility and future-ready industries, noting that Malaysia could serve as BENLG’s next regional hub as the Chinese manufacturer expands its Asean footprint.
Under the MOU, both parties will evaluate suitable locations for a potential electric motorcycle assembly plant, engage with local authorities and ministries on regulatory requirements, and determine the capital investment and equity structure for the proposed venture.
The feasibility study will also assess opportunities to position Malaysia as an assembly and distribution gateway for the wider Asean electric two-wheeler market.
The MOU is valid for nine months or until a definitive agreement is executed and may be terminated with 30 days’ written notice. The agreement is non-binding, save for confidentiality provisions.
BENLG, established in 2003, manufactures electric motorcycles, scooters and tricycles and operates production facilities in Tianjin, Wuxi, Taizhou and a 60,000 sq m headquarters in Dongguan.
It also has international branches in India, the Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia, exporting to 65 countries around the world.
This marks Malton’s second major attempt to explore an electric vehicle (EV)-related business.
In 2021, the group signed an MOU with Ho Wah Genting Bhd to potentially acquire a 14% stake in HWGB EV Sdn Bhd for an intended venture to introduce, assemble and distribute EVs in Malaysia.
The arrangement would have allowed Malton access to project information and feasibility assessments, but the MOU expired in March 2022 without further development.
At the time, Malton did not disclose reasons for the lapse of the earlier plan, which was tied to HWGB EV’s collaboration framework with several Chinese EV companies, including Seiyong Motor Co Ltd, Xiamen Chief Electric Vehicles Co Ltd and Beijing Aitou Capital Management Ltd.
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