Johor bahru: Johor-based bus body manufacturer, Sun Bus Tech Sdn Bhd aims to complete 310 Rapid KL buses under a local assembly (Completely Knocked Down-CKD) project with Prasarana Malaysia Bhd by February 2026.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sun Bus Tech chief executive officer Shyan Phang stated that the project signifies a major strategic shift for the company, transitioning from an export-heavy operation to one with significant domestic focus. This move aligns with government policies aimed at strengthening local assembly and industrial capacity. Phang noted, “This is our first large-scale domestic project and currently takes up almost 100 per cent of our production capacity, with a target of producing 50 units per month.”
The initial batch of 10 buses was delivered last month, with another 15 units following this week. Starting next month, Sun Bus Tech plans to increase its deliveries to 40 to 50 units monthly. Phang emphasized that the project is also creating employment opportunities for locals, as the company is committed to building a sustainable workforce with local talent. She mentioned, “We’re working closely with TVET institutions in Johor as well as the Johor Talent Development Council (JTDC) to recruit and train more Malaysians. Our target is to achieve a 90 per cent local workforce in the near future.”
Sun Bus Tech is responding to the Johor state government’s initiative to raise salary levels and develop a future-ready workforce by offering a premium starting salary of RM4,000 for skilled workers. Previously, over 90 per cent of the company’s sales were from international markets such as Singapore and Taiwan. However, the Prasarana contract is expected to contribute nearly half of the company’s total sales this year. Phang remarked, “When we first launched Sun Bus Tech, it was our international network that responded first. Clients from Singapore gave us our initial breakthrough. But this local tender gives us the opportunity to strengthen our footprint in Malaysia.”
She also reiterated the company’s commitment to supporting the country’s public transportation ecosystem by delivering high-quality, future-ready, and environmentally-friendly vehicles. On July 14, Prasarana launched 310 diesel buses under the 2025 Bus Replacement programme, aiming to enhance public transport services in the Klang Valley and Penang. Transport Minister Anthony Loke noted that this marks Prasarana’s final procurement of diesel buses, aligning with the government’s goal to shift towards a more sustainable, environmentally friendly, and low-carbon public transport system.