Senai, Johor – 11 September 2025 – Malaysia’s tourism landscape has received a major boost with the launch of a brand-new fleet of open-top double decker buses for the iconic KL Hop-On Hop-Off tour. The official handover ceremony took place today at Gemilang Coachwork Sdn Bhd’s headquarters in Senai, Johor, witnessed by government leaders, industry partners, and members of the media.
Gracing the occasion, YB Tuan Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), hailed the project as a proud showcase of Malaysia’s industrial capability.
“These buses are not only vehicles; they are mobile ambassadors of our culture, hospitality, and progress,” YB Liew said. “Built locally with world-class standards, they demonstrate how Malaysian companies can create solutions that enhance tourism while strengthening our economy.”
The new fleet is the result of a powerful partnership between three key players:
• Gemilang Coachwork, Malaysia’s leading bus bodybuilder with over 35 years of global export experience,
• MAN Truck & Bus Malaysia, providing the proven MAN RR3 Euro 6 chassis, and
• Elang Wah Sdn Bhd, operator of the KL Hop-On Hop-Off city tour.
The buses feature a lightweight aluminium body structure and composite panels, bringing the total vehicle weight down to around 12 tons — comparable to a single-deck bus. This translates to better fuel efficiency, lower emissions, enhanced durability, and uncompromised safety and comfort for passengers.
Mr. Pang Chong Yong, Managing Director of Gemilang Coachwork, emphasized:
“Every detail — from the structural design to passenger comfort — was carefully crafted to make these buses true ambassadors of Kuala Lumpur. We are proud to contribute to Malaysia’s tourism sector while showcasing local engineering excellence.”
Mr. Marc Appelt, Managing Director of MAN Truck & Bus (M) Sdn Bhd, added:
“MAN is delighted to power this new fleet with our Euro VI technology. Elang Wah’s trust in MAN is a vote of confidence in our commitment to safety, efficiency, and reliability. We look forward to supporting their operations with our growing aftersales network.”
For Elang Wah, the new fleet is a statement of intent. Tuan Syed Azhar Syed Nadzir, CEO of Elang Wah Sdn Bhd, said: “Our goal is to uplift Kuala Lumpur’s image by offering visitors a safe, modern, and memorable way to experience the city. With these new buses, the KL Hop-On Hop-Off service will continue to be a highlight for tourists from around the world.”
The collaboration between Gemilang, MAN Malaysia, and Elang Wah is more than a business venture; it is a demonstration of how international expertise and Malaysian innovation can come together to deliver world-class outcomes.
