4th Asia Automotive Award celebrates region’s high performers

by FAREZZA HANUM RASHID 

SEVENTY individuals and organisations were celebrated at the 4th Asia Automotive Award for their contributions to shaping the future of the automotive landscape.

Held at the Putrajaya Marriott Hotel, the ceremony brought together over 500 industry luminaries from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Korea, Indonesia, China, Japan, and The Philippines. 

Nineteen categories were highlighted, spanning eight core areas namely Product and Service Quality; Leadership; Manufacturing; Green Initiatives; Technology and Digital Innovation; Customer Experience; Industry Collaboration; and Special Achievements.

Notable award recipients included Datuk Yoshihiro Uehara, honoured for his Outstanding Achievement and Contribution to the automotive industry.

Maybank received the Automotive Financing Excellence Award for the 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.

Witnessing these award presentations was corporate figure Tengku Datuk Setia Putra Alhaj Almarhum Tengku Bendahara Azman Shah Alhaj.

The winner selection process was overseen by a panel of 13 board of audit members, comprising industry and thought leaders. 

Key members of this panel included executive committee/chief production officer of Grand Prix International Anohtai Eamlumnow from Thailand; Beijing Goldenport Motor Park founder Jim Ming-Qin Ye (China); and International Affairs of the Korea Motorcycle Federation director Prof Dr Seo Kyu Won (Korea).

The 4th Asia Automotive Award organising chairman Por Boon Kuan noted that 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.

“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 said in a statement.

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 the region’s dedication to excellence and symbolises 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. 

“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 was supported by CNC Innovations Sdn Bhd in creating the symbol of achievement, a testament to the industry’s progress and the dedication of its leaders.

A pre-Chinese New Year celebration also kicked off at the award ceremony with a display of tradition where guests partook in the age-old ritual of tossing yee sang. They were also treated to a lion dance performance.