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Asia Automotive Award 2025: Shaping the Region’s Automotive Future

Ribbon cutting ceremony for the 4th Asia Automotive Award. (L-R) Matahari Lee & Jet Ong, Organising Committee Members; Tengku Datuk Setia Putra Alhaj, Guest of Honour; Por Boon Kuan, Organising Chairman; and Tom Kek, Organising Committee Member.

KUALA LUMPUR, 14 January 2025 – The 4th Asia Automotive Award, held at the prestigious Putrajaya Marriott Hotel, was a resounding success, bringing together over 500 industry luminaries from across the Asian continent – Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Korea, Indonesia, China, Japan, and The Philippines. The event celebrated the remarkable achievements of 70 exceptional individuals and organisations, recognising their significant contributions to shaping the future of the automotive landscape.

Ribbon cutting ceremony for the 4th Asia Automotive Award. (L-R) Matahari Lee & Jet Ong,
Organising Committee Members; Tengku Datuk Setia Putra Alhaj, Guest of Honour; Por Boon
Kuan, Organising Chairman; and Tom Kek, Organising Committee Member.

Honored guests, including Tengku Dato’ Setia Putra Alhaj Bin Almarhum Tengku Bendahara Azman Shah Alhaj, Yang Amat Dihormati Tengku Indera Pahlawan Diraja, witnessed a night of triumphs as excellence was recognized across 19 categories spanning eight core areas: Product and Service Quality, Leadership, Manufacturing, Green Initiatives, Technology and Digital Innovation, Customer Experience, Industry Collaboration, and Special Achievements.

Asia Automotive Award

Notable award recipients included Datuk Yoshihiro Uehara, honored for his Outstanding Achievement & Contribution to the Automotive Industry. MAYBANK received the prestigious Automotive Financing Excellence Award – EV Segment, while Smart Mobility Sdn Bhd was recognised for its excellence in Automotive Service/Maintenance. Miji Kang from Korea was crowned the Automotive Icon of the Year, and Thitipat Rattanabunditsakul from Thailand was honoured for his exceptional achievements in Automotive Racing.

The winner selection process was overseen by a distinguished panel of 13 board of audit members, comprising industry titans and thought leaders. This esteemed panel meticulously evaluated all nominations to ensure that only the most deserving recipients were recognized. Key members of this panel included Anohtai Eamlumnow (Thailand), Executive Committee / Chief Production Officer of Grand Prix International; Jim Ming-Qin Ye (China), Founder of Beijing Goldenport Motor Park; and Prof. Dr. Seo Kyu Won (Korea), Director International Affairs of the KOREA Motorcycle Federation.

“The Asia Automotive Award is more than just a trophy. It is a symbol of inspiration for future automotive leaders across Asia. By recognising these extraordinary individuals and organisations, we are setting new standards of excellence that drive innovation and progress in the industry,” said Por Boon Kuan, Organising Chairman of the 4th Asia Automotive Award. “These awards also highlight the global influence of the Asian automotive industry. By celebrating innovation, sustainability, and leadership, we are showing the world that Asia is ready to lead the automotive revolution,” he added.

New symbol of achievement

This year, the awards introduced a new symbol of achievement: “The A Symbol: A Legacy Cast in Steel.” Representing the Asia Automotive Award, “The A” embodies our region’s dedication to excellence and symbolizes the industry’s transformative journey from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles and beyond. Each meticulously crafted trophy, weighing 2.8kg, is a testament to the passion, precision, and innovation driving the industry. With its unique serial number, each trophy adds a touch of exclusivity, commemorating the incredible achievements of our awardees. More than just a trophy, “The A Symbol” represents a legacy—a testament to the ongoing evolution of the Asian automotive industry and the hard work, vision, and determination that have propelled it forward. The 4th Asia Automotive Award extends its gratitude to CNC Innovations Sdn Bhd for their invaluable support in creating this magnificent symbol of achievement, a testament to the industry’s progress and the dedication of its leaders.

The air buzzed with excitement as the pre-Chinese New Year celebrations kicked off with a vibrant display of tradition. Guests gathered to partake in the age-old ritual of tossing yee sang, a colorful salad symbolizing abundance and prosperity. Laughter filled the room as everyone enthusiastically tossed the ingredients high in the air, chanting auspicious wishes for the upcoming year. The festive atmosphere reached its peak with a captivating lion dance performance, the rhythmic drumming and vibrant colors adding to the joyous occasion.

The 4th Asia Automotive Award serves as a vital platform to acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable achievements that are driving innovation and shaping the future of the Asian automotive industry. For more information, visit www.asiaautomotiveawards.com.