MRDC develops programmes to expand Malaysian rail manufacturing
Equipment manufacturing and train refurbishment initiatives aim to widen local participation, while MRDC forecasts demand for at least 10,000 workers by 2030.
Malaysia Rail Development Corporation (MRDC) is developing initiatives to help Malaysian rail businesses progress from supply and subcontracting work into component production and higher-value services, its acting chief executive officer Nurul Adilah Abd Wahid said.
An equipment-equivalent manufacturing programme being developed seeks to equip domestic manufacturers to produce equipment and components that fulfil rail-sector requirements. Another initiative, focused on rolling stock refurbishment, is examining opportunities to repair and upgrade train systems and develop their components.
Speaking to Bernama Mobile Studio during Transport Expo Asia 2026 (TXA 2026), Nurul Adilah said wider domestic participation would have to proceed gradually, depending on businesses’ capacity to absorb new technologies. She expected the initiatives to lessen reliance on overseas original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) over time and create openings in ASEAN markets and global supply chains.
Workforce development is another priority. MRDC estimates that at least 10,000 workers will be needed by 2030 for rail development, operations and maintenance. Nurul Adilah said major projects were driving demand for highly skilled personnel.
MRDC is developing the National Rail Centre of Excellence to connect academic and industry expertise in talent and technology development. Training will be organised through a central facility, satellite centres and training factories, with the aim of matching workforce capabilities more closely to industry requirements.
The agency has also developed 16 Malaysian Rail Industry Standards. These cover six train components and 10 trackwork components, with the stated aims of supporting future rail projects and reducing dependence on standards from abroad.
