Baiterek National Managing Holding signed a memorandum of cooperation with PROTON to develop the automotive industry in Kazakhstan

Baiterek National Managing Holding and Malaysian automotive company Perusahaan Otomobil Nasional Sdn. Bhd. (PROTON) have signed a memorandum of cooperation. The document aims to develop the automotive industry and establish a national car manufacturer in Kazakhstan.

On behalf of the Holding, the memorandum was signed by Chairman of the Management Board Rustam Karagoyshin, and on behalf of PROTON — Mr. Ainol Azmil Abu Bakar, Vice President for Corporate Strategy.

The signing of the memorandum is the result of negotiations aimed at implementing a joint initiative to create an automotive program in Kazakhstan using PROTON’s international expertise and technologies. The cooperation includes the possibility of production localization, technology transfer, and further development of the export potential of the industry.

“Cooperation with PROTON opens new opportunities for the development of Kazakhstan’s automotive industry. The experience and technologies of our partners will form the basis for creating a modern production platform and developing a national automotive brand that will contribute to the industrialization and economic growth of the country,” said Rustam Karagoyshin.

For his part, PROTON Vice President Ainol Azmil Abu Bakar emphasized that the signing of the memorandum marks an important milestone in expanding the company’s international presence in Kazakhstan.

“We are pleased to be part of Kazakhstan’s strategic initiative. Our expertise and technological solutions will contribute to the development of local production and strengthening cooperation between the two countries,” he stated.

The agreement provides for feasibility studies, identification of local partners, and the elaboration of financing mechanisms. Baiterek National Managing Holding will continue supporting initiatives aimed at developing the domestic engineering sector and strengthening international investment cooperation.

Background information

PROTON Holdings Bhd began operations as Malaysia’s first national car project, established to accelerate the country’s economic development and lay the foundation for a local automotive industry. In 2017, PROTON entered a new stage of development as a modern global automotive brand through a partnership between its two shareholders, DRB-HICOM and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group. Today, PROTON continues to deliver vehicles that reflect its brand promise—inspiring connections—and its core values of continuous innovation, reliability, and adherence to international standards.