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Monday, June 3, 2024

MCVE 2024: Sixth-Time Success


The Malaysian Commercial Vehicle Expo 2024 (MCVE 2024), the region’s largest commercial vehicle exhibition and organised by Asian Trucker, was staged at the Mines International Exhibition and Convention Centre from May 9th to 11th, 2024.

First held in 2013, this premier industry event was officially opened by YB Loke Siew Fook, the Malaysian Minister of Transport. At the opening on the first day, Mr Stefan Pertz, Editor in Chief for Asian Trucker and Asian Buses, welcomed the Minister, exhibitors, and guests to the sixth occurrence of MCVE, saying that as organisers, the exhibition has always prided itself on being a platform to showcase the latest developments in the commercial vehicle realm, especially the growing transition to electric vehicles.

The Minister noted that the pandemic accelerated the adoption of digitisation across all sectors. He added, “The transport industry has adopted remarkably well. Together, we are now re-emerging with renewed vigour. Among the Ministry’s focus has been dealing with digitalisation and electrification.”

Some of the other initiatives the Minister referred to were the Commercial Vehicle Licensing System (iSPKP) to provide an end-to-end online licensing platform and the implementation of the Malaysian Single Window (MMSW) to improve port efficiency. He has also taken note of the industry concerns about the shortage of drivers and that the Ministry has introduced MyLesen to subsidise the training and licensing of lorry drivers.

The Minister also spoke of a strong transport sector to support the government’s initiatives to attract foreign investment to Malaysia. He mentioned that the ability to do this was dependent upon how well the transportation sector works, and that, industry players attracted to MCVE 2024, were the ones who keep the economy moving and are essential to the growth of the nation.

MCVE 2024 was a huge success as it attracted more exhibitors and guests over its three-day duration compared to the previous event held during the pandemic. Several brands have been part of MCVE since its inception in 2013 and serve as a testament to the quality and reach of the exhibition.

Golden Contributions
As Gold Sponsor, MAN Truck and Bus Malaysia introduced the MAN TGV Van, a versatile daily transport solution. The soon-to-be launched van is already one of Europe’s best-selling vans. Andrew O’Brooks, MAN Malaysia Managing Director was delighted that the company could present the full range of MAN low-emission commercial vehicles for the first time in the country.

PETRONAS Lubricants International, the exhibition’s official Lubricant Partner, showcased the company’s Fluid Technology Solutions in the commercial and industrial sectors. These products included PETRONAS Urania, PETRONAS Tutela, PETRONAS Iona, and PETRONAS Industrial Solutions brands. They also showcased PETRONAS SmartPay, the company’s fleet management solution.

Networking Opportunity
Mr Frank Märgner, the Singapore-based Sales Director with Hengst Asia Pacific Pte Ltd, which sponsored the highly successful networking night during MCVE 2024, was happy to attend the exhibition to meet up with its existing and valued clients. “As the smart alternative in filtration, Hengst needed to be here as it provided a platform for us to explain what we do to those who know us, as well as those who are new to our range of products that showcase the best in German technology. We also have an educational role to explain the difference between and how to identify, good and bad filters. Especially after COVID-19, we have seen an influx of cheap filters and copies, and the results of using such filters are often not clear to users. Saving a few dollars on cheap filters doesn’t make sense for owners of expensive fleets,” he commented. Märgner was very appreciative too that the Hengst stand featured a MAN truck, as it was most eye-catching and attracted clients in their direction. He also remarked that Hengst was keen to continue its support for MCVE and wanted to see the event expand. “While we had hoped that more fleet owners would have joined our networking night, we were delighted with the response as well as the general attendance at our stand,” he concluded.

Meeting Expectations
Mr Jason S.Y. Han, Managing Director of Lubetrans Sdn Bhd, claims that MCVE 2024 was as expected and that it was good to connect with existing clients and to meet some new potential business. “While we were cautiously optimistic about the event, it met our expectations,” he commented. He added, “Due to various reasons, the global economy is a little slow, so we expected the expo to match this as geopolitical problems are affecting things worldwide.” The event was a success for Lubetrans, and while many of the expo connections were with existing clients, Han maintained that the company needed to be present to let its clients know that it is still offering its services to its valued customers. However, Han remains optimistic about the future and looks forward to a presence at the next commercial vehicle exhibition.

Meanwhile, Hammar Maskin Sdn Bhd showcased its Swedish-branded sideloaders for its fifth consecutive MCVE. Justin Liew, Head of Sales, said, “This year saw a good representation of targeted visitors, especially on the first two days. We made a lot of contacts, plus some ten new contacts, which we will follow up on. Overall, MCVE 2024 was very good and very successful for Hammar.”

Frank Märgner from Hengst Asia Pacific summed up the sentiment of many exhibitors when he said that he wanted to see the show expand. “We need to be here to support our existing clients while coming into contact with others who present potential business to Hengst,” he concluded.

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