The year 2020 marks the 40th Anniversary of Isuzu’s establishment in Malaysia.
Isuzu Celebrates 40 years of Success in Malaysia
The company was established in 1980, when Automotive Corporation Malaysia Sdn Bhd (ACM) became an official distributor and first introduced Isuzu trucks to meet the demands of the local market. Today, Isuzu is synonymous for offering a wide range of trucks that have become the preferred choice for quality, durability and cost-efficiency.
In 1989, ACM was acquired by Heavy Industries Corporation of Malaysia Berhad (HICOM), a conglomerate in the automotive, services and properties sector. Later on, in 1994, a joint venture agreement was struck between Isuzu and DRB-HICOM to establish Malaysia Truck & Bus Sdn Bhd (MTB), a manufacturing and assembly plant in Pekan, Pahang, to cater to the domestic market’s need for reliable commercial vehicles. The company was later incorporated as Isuzu HICOM Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd (IMSB) was incorporated in September 2004 as a tripartite venture between Isuzu Motors Limited, DRB-HICOM Berhad and Mitsubishi Corporation, to strengthen the company’s reach within the region. Although IMSB became the authorised importer and distributor of Isuzu vehicles in Malaysia, ACM continues to serve as one of Isuzu Malaysia’s authorised local distributors.
In October 2010, Isuzu commenced production of the N-Series Light Duty truck range, which was subsequently launched to the market the following month. Since then, various trucks and commercial vehicles have been produced locally, including the N-Series Crew Cab, N-Series Light Duty Hi-Power, F-Series, D-MAX, N-Series 4×4 NPS, N-Series NPR and NQR models. Locally, Isuzu Malaysia is the only brand in the market to offer a wide range of both commercial vehicles and pick-up trucks to suit various needs in a one-stop shop.
Isuzu’s long history in Malaysia, coupled with its line-up of commercial vehicles that are highly sought after and trusted, has sealed the brand’s spot as a firm favourite among local businesses. The ELF Light Duty truck has consistently managed to secure the No. 1 spot as Malaysia’s preferred Light Duty Commercial Vehicle, based on yearly figures released by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).
Moreover, Isuzu’s remarkable achievement is also the result of top-notch services and support rendered by Isuzu Malaysia’s skilled dealers and workforce. Isuzu prides itself as a company that prioritises customer needs with great care and consideration, through its excellent after-sales services.
In 2017, Isuzu Malaysia reached a new milestone with the launch of their flagship after-sales facility in Shah Alam. The Isuzu Service Centre (ISC) provides vehicle owners and users with efficient and timely vehicle care. The establishment of the ISC also aims to enhance relationships with customers, by effectively supporting their total ownership needs.
Moving forward, Isuzu Malaysia’s Chief Executive Officer, Koji Nakamura, believes that greater efforts must be done to consistently achieve customer satisfaction. According to Nakamura, “Customer satisfaction and value-added services should always come first – especially in times of economic uncertainties and stiff market competition.”
Isuzu Malaysia will continue to strengthen its presence and commitment to achieve excellent customer satisfaction through its wide network of dealers and service outlets. At the moment, there are Isuzu outlets strategically located in every region of Malaysia, ranging from 1S centres to the more comprehensive 3S centres. Currently, there are 12 outlets in the Central region, 9 outlets in the Northern region, 10 outlets in the Southern region and 7 outlets on the East Coast.
Isuzu Malaysia is also present in East Malaysia, with 6 outlets located throughout Sabah, and another 6 outlets in Sarawak. All East Malaysia outlets are 3S centres.
