The RM10 million factory is equipped with industry-leading foam manufacturing technology and a slew of green innovations like a rainwater harvesting system, solar panels and low energy and emission equipment.

“Since 1983 we have been consistently investing to improve and expand the capability and capacity of our manufacturing operations in Malaysia and with our new foam plant in Alor Gajah, we are elevating our operations to become an automotive export hub for the Southeast Asia region,” Adient managing director AJ Dabydin said in a statement.

“Through this initiative, we will drive parts localisation, develop local suppliers, and create more job opportunities for Malaysians and export revenues for the country.

“Leveraging on Adient’s global manufacturing best practices, we provide the joy of driving with the safest, most comfortable and most entertaining mobility solutions that truly care for people and respect our planet.”

While technology was a major focus in the plant’s design, Dabydin said they were committed to ensuring workers were at the heart of all the company’s technological endeavours.

“There was a need to re-skill and up-skill the operators for effective man-machine interaction and then keeping them safe through a plant layout that allows for one-meter physical distancing and carefully planned logistic route,” he explained.