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Go Automobile Manufacturing (Go Auto) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bustech. The two companies will carry out feasibility studies - expected to be completed by end-May - with a view to establish a manufacturing joint-venture in Malaysia.

Go Auto assembles Great Wall vehicles at its Gurun, Kedah plant, while Bustech, a member of the Transit Australia Group, is Australia's leading bus designer and manufacturer.

On the cards are "highly fuel-efficient" diesel and electric buses, plus special-purpose vehicles designed specifically for ASEAN and global markets, according to Go Auto director Farok Maasom. "Following the feasibility study, we aim to move very quickly into production," he said.

"This represents a major opportunity for Bustech and for Transit Australia Group," said Transit Australia Group CEO Michael McGee. "Partnering with Go Auto provides access to significant skill and expertise, and opens up new and exciting opportunities in the Malaysian and international markets. This deal will also significantly increase Bustech's product offerings and access to new markets."

The MoU is facilitated under the Malaysia-Australia Free Trade Agreement (MAFTA), and is supported by the Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI), an agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI).

"This is yet another success story of MAFTA where companies from both Malaysia and Australia come together to collaborate and to gain the bigger ASEAN-Australian markets," said MAI CEO Madani Sahari.