At the launch of its electric train and rolling-stock assembly operations in Malaysia in 2015, a big majority of the workers were from China. But as time went on, CRRC hired more locals and built up their skills.
CHEAH LEE FONG Human Resources Manager "Previously our engineers are mostly from China but slowly we promote our local staff especially from the productions that are well-equipped with technical skills. Most of the important positions for productions and team leaders and also management staff, overtake by our locals."
RIAN MAELZER Batu Gajah, Malaysia "CRRC set up its train assembly plant here in Malaysia at the time that the government was expanding and upgrading several networks and lines."
CRRC has built electric train sets for a suburban commuter line and the country's main north-south network, as well as LRT trains. It also provides maintenance.
VIJAYAKUMAR SUNDAR Malaysian Workshop Manager "I was sent to Zhuzhou, China for training. After two years, I am selected as team leader, after that I selected as section chief, then after that I can proceed to management level. So this is a good opportunity to me to work in CRRC."
Aside from continuing to expand its LRT and MRT networks, and double tracking and electrifying its north-south line, Malaysia is working with China to build a fast rail link to the country's east coast.
MOHD NURAZRI MOHD ZAHARI Fitter Team Leader "The train industry is a new industry here. The skills that we are getting, the training we are getting we couldn't get anywhere else. I feel fortunate to be able to go to China to study with the masters, the 'shifu' there."