MARii Expands Autoshow Series to Penang and Johor for 2026

Penang Autoshow and Johor Autoshow 2026 set to bring next-generation vehicle technologies and EV innovations closer to northern and southern communities. 

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The Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii) is expanding its renowned Malaysia Autoshow series with two new regional editions in 2026, the Penang Autoshow 2026 scheduled for May and the Johor Autoshow 2026 set for August.

The soft launch for both regional shows was announced during the Global Automotive & Technology Expo (GATE) 2025 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. This expansion marks a major milestone as the autoshow’s footprint grows beyond the Klang Valley to serve more regions across the country.

The move aims to bring advanced automotive technologies, electric mobility solutions and future-focused innovations directly to communities in the north and south. Manufacturers, technology providers and mobility solution partners will be present at both events, offering Malaysians a first-hand look at the industry’s latest developments.

Penang and Johor were chosen for their rising influence in Malaysia’s automotive landscape. Penang continues to establish itself as a hub for high-tech manufacturing, sustainable mobility and a growing EV ecosystem. Johor, meanwhile, plays a crucial role as an industrial powerhouse and a strategic gateway to ASEAN markets, presenting strong potential for industry collaboration and growth. 

MARii Chief Executive Officer, En. Azrul Reza Aziz, said that although the Malaysia Autoshow will take a step back in 2026 to make way for the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS 2026), the institute’s mission remains the same. “The drive to bring the latest automotive innovations closer to Malaysians will not stop at one venue or one city,” he said.

He added that the Penang Autoshow and Johor Autoshow 2026 are key in ensuring that people from every region have access to new-generation vehicle technologies, electric mobility and sustainable innovations. “With this approach, we are not only expanding our reach, but also strengthening the national automotive ecosystem in a more inclusive manner in line with the National Automotive Policy 2020.”

The upcoming regional events will feature leading automotive brands showcasing their latest models and technologies, reflecting Malaysia’s growing readiness for next-generation mobility. Visitors can expect a variety of attractions such as test drive routes, car gatherings and auto fashion showcases. Additional activities and experiential programmes will be revealed as event preparations progress.

The Malaysia Autoshow 2025 recently set a new ASEAN benchmark as its largest and most successful edition to date, drawing nearly 300,000 visitors and generating RM1.72 billion in potential sales. With more than 200 exhibitors and over 500 vehicle models, including a strong EV and hybrid presence, the event demonstrated Malaysia’s accelerating momentum in the mobility ecosystem.

With the addition of Penang and Johor in 2026, MARii’s Autoshow series is set to reach even more Malaysians, further strengthening the nation’s position in the regional automotive landscape.