Our Localisation
commitment

Our long-term commitment to technology transfer has successfully established sustainable local rail manufacturing capabilities in Malaysia.

Through the systematic transfer of engineering expertise and manufacturing systems, supported by the development of local talent, trains can now be built and supported locally for local operations.

Since becoming fully operational in 2015, we have successfully completed the local manufacturing of 348 rail vehicles across seven railway projects, including EMUs and DMUs for KTMB’s West and East Coast Lines, as well as LRVs for Prasarana’s LRT Ampang Line, LRT Shah Alam Line, and the RTS Link. This achievement reflects a decisive shift from technology introduction to capability ownership, laying a lasting foundation for Malaysia’s rail industry and its long-term self-reliance.

We actively support local procurement through a dedicated team focused on identifying, developing, and nurturing local suppliers. To date, we have collaborated with more than 350 local suppliers across a wide range of categories—from consumables and equipment to critical trainset components and systems—supporting the development of Malaysia’s rail supply chain.

As part of this localisation effort, we have successfully localised eight key train components for both the ETS2 and DMU projects, while further expanding the scope to ten components under the ETS3 project. These localised components include ATP system, passenger seat, coupler, passenger information system (PIS), air-conditioning system, door system, gangway, side window, interior lighting, and interior fit-out system. Through long-term collaboration with qualified local suppliers, we continue to strengthen local industrial capability, promote sustainable procurement practices, and enhance the resilience of Malaysia’s rail supply chain.

Developing local human capital is a core pillar of our long-term commitment to Malaysia.

Since commencing operations, we have built a strong local workforce, with Malaysian professionals accounting for more than 85% of our employees. Through structured training programmes, we continuously strengthen technical, professional, leadership, and hands-on capabilities required to support rail manufacturing, maintenance, and long-term industry growth.

Our efforts extend beyond in-house development. Selected Malaysian employees have received overseas technical exposure through learning attachments with established rail operators, while outstanding engineers have also been supported in pursuing postgraduate studies in railway engineering. We have further supported knowledge transfer and talent development through secondment programmes with local rail operators such as Rapid Rail and KTMB, as well as national talent initiatives including SL1M / Protégé and structured internship placements with local universities.

We operate a project-based after-sales service network across Peninsular Malaysia through eight strategically located service stations, delivering 24/7 technical support and rapid fault response throughout the early service life of the trains, ensuring safe, reliable and uninterrupted railway operations.

To establish long-term, in-country maintenance capability beyond the warranty period, we formed CKM Landas MRO Sdn. Bhd. (CKM Landas), a majority Bumiputera-owned joint venture. The company delivers efficient and sustainable rolling stock MRO services, supporting lifecycle reliability while strengthening Malaysia’s local rail maintenance ecosystem.

Together, these capabilities establish an integrated local support system for rolling stock after-sales and MRO services, enhancing fleet reliability, safety and operational efficiency.

Our management approach is grounded in Malaysia’s regulatory framework, workplace culture, and industry practices.

Management policies and organisational structures are designed to align with local employment standards and professional norms, ensuring an inclusive working environment that reflects Malaysia’s business landscape.

Within this localised management framework, we place strong emphasis on creating meaningful career opportunities for Malaysian professionals. Through structured career pathways, leadership development, and progressive appointment to senior roles, local talent is empowered to grow, contribute, and advance within the organisation — supporting sustainable organisational development and the long-term resilience of Malaysia’s rail industry.