Industry Airbus announces additional industry projects in Malaysia

Over the course of these new plans, Airbus will furthermore strengthen its industrial presence in Malaysia with three new initiatives. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Kuala Lumpur by Airbus Chief Executive Officer Guillaume Faury and AirAsia Group Bhd Executive Chairman Datuk Kamarudin Meranun.

The three initiatives will be the expansion of Airbus´ wholly-owned maintenance facility, Sepang Aircraft Engineering (SAE), the establishment of a new Malaysia Digital Initiative and an increased participation in the Aerospace Malaysia Innovation Centre (AMIC), wrote Airbus.

“These initiatives will significantly enhance our presence in Malaysia, which is one of our most important markets in Asia,” said Guillaume Faury, Chief Executive Officer, Airbus. “They will strengthen further our win-win partnerships with Malaysia, contribute to the development of the Malaysian aerospace sector and enable Airbus to benefit from the competencies and skills available in the country.”

Tan Sri Tony Fernandes, Chief Executive Officer, AirAsia Group added: “AirAsia is proud to play a leading role in advancing Malaysia’s aerospace industry, which is in line with the country’s vision to open up more aerospace hubs to support the growing aviation industry and create more high-value job opportunities for Malaysians. We will continue to work with all relevant stakeholders to achieve this objective.”

Over the course of the Airbus Malaysia Digital Initiative, Airbus will develop a plan for projects that will enhance the competitiveness of the Malaysian aerospace sector. The manufacturer said that it will work in accordance to local stakeholders. Further industrial partners will be added to the supply chain in the country.

With the participation in the AMIC, Airbus will appoint an Innovation Technical Director, who will support non-profit organisations. Furthermore, the funding for Malaysian research programmes will be increased. Airbus plans to research at AMIC into potential alternatives for sustainable aviation biofuels in the country.

Regarding its position in the local industry, Airbus wrote: "Airbus is the largest international partner for the Malaysian aerospace industry, with its sourcing and services businesses in the country now valued at some $400 million (U.S.) per year for the local economy. The company’s activities currently sustain employment for over 4,000 Malaysians in the country’s fast-growing aviation sector."