Hyundai Motor has announced that it has launched sales of its locally-assembled Staria MPV in Malaysia, after production began earlier this month at a plant in Kulim, in Kedah state. The plant is owned by Inokom Corporation, which is majority-owned by local vehicle assembler and distributor Sime Darby Motors, with Hyundai holding a 15% stake.

Earlier this year, the South Korean automaker established a new subsidiary in Malaysia called Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY) to oversee its investment and help manage operations at the Kulim plant in collaboration with Sime Darby.

HMY’s president, Eric Lee, said in a statement: “The commencement of local production of the Hyundai Staria is more than just a production achievement. It represents Hyundai’s confidence in Malaysia as an important market and a growing hub for future assembly.”

Sui Keng Huat, Inokom’s managing director, said: “From humble beginnings, we have grown into a trusted assembly partner within Hyundai’s global network. Every vehicle produced here is crafted with precision, care and in full compliance with Hyundai’s global standards, driven entirely by 100% Malaysian talent.”

Sime Darby confirmed that HMY is “committed to fostering stronger supply chains and supporting the nation’s industrial ecosystem.”