Prominent Chinese bearing industry players Zhejiang Tianma Bearing Group Co. Ltd (TMB) and Johor Corporation (JCorp), the state of Johor’s principal development institution, have signed a Sales and Purchase Agreement (SPA) for the purchase of 31 acres of industrial land in Tanjung Langsat Industrial Complex (TLIC) in order to construct TMB’s first international bearing manufacturing facility outside of China. Tianma Precision Sdn Bhd is a full subsidiary of Tianma Precision Machinery Pte. Ltd.
The signing ceremony, witnessed by Johor Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee Chairman, Lee Ting Han marks TMB’s foray into establishing its maiden manufacturing facility outside of China.
With expertise in bearing manufacturing and a diverse portfolio comprising over 8,000 types of bearings, TMB has emerged as a leading supplier to wind power industry, railway heavy machinery and other industrial applications. Now, with an investment of approximately RM440 million at TLIC, TMB’s business ecosystem is poised to capitalise on this reputation. The aim is to utilise this new facility to cater to the increasing demand for bearings in wind turbines, with a strategic focus on markets in the United States, Europe, and Latin America.
The massive bearing manufacturer plans to use solar panels to partially meet the facility’s energy needs through its subsidiaries, sourcing the remaining green electricity locally as part of its environmental pledge and efforts to lessen its carbon impact. Furthermore, it is anticipated that this expansion project will add to the 6,000 jobs already produced by its six manufacturing plants in China by providing the Johor local population with high-skilled employment possibilities. This calculated action not only confirms TMB’s standing as a major force in the bearing manufacturing industry, but it also highlights the company’s support of environmental responsibility and economic growth.
“The expansion of Zhejiang Tianma Bearing Group through Tianma Precision Sdn Bhd into the Tanjung Langsat Industrial Complex, a key component of JS-SEZ, represents a transformative milestone for Johor. This RM440 million investment not only fortifies our industrial sector but also sets a new standard for innovation and sustainability in the region,” said Johor Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee Chairman, Lee Ting Han.
Lee further highlighted that this development comes as Johor recorded RM43 billion in investments for 2023, a testament to the state’s robust economic appeal. “The establishment of TMB’s sophisticated manufacturing facility will significantly bolster the initiatives of the Johor Skills Development Centre, providing a practical framework where local talent can apply and refine their skills. This collaboration ensures our workforce is not only prepared to meet the demands of advanced manufacturing but also plays a crucial role in driving our state’s economic development,” he emphasised.
Datuk Sr. Akmal Ahmad, Director, Real Estate & Infrastructure Division, Johor Corporation stated that, “This collaboration between JCorp and Tianma Precision Sdn Bhd, reflects a shared vision of promoting industrial innovation and sustainable growth. Leveraging TMB’s ecosystem of cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, we anticipate significant advancements in production efficiency and environmental sustainability. Aligned with our efforts to establish a more integrated business ecosystem, we are enhancing the synergy between TLIC’s land area and our Tanjung Langsat Port facilities, to ensure seamless access to logistics and transportation services for our partners. We believe this partnership, along with the establishment of the JS-SEZ, will provide significant benefits not only to the local community but also to international business relations, fostering greater economic collaboration and growth on a global scale.”
“TMB has grown over the years from a humble start-up 40 years ago to a recognised bearing manufacturer, thanks to the hard work and dedication of our employees, and support from our customers and local community. Today, we are happy to find TLIC as an ideal location for our new flagship manufacturing plant. TMB will be making the world’s largest and most advanced slewing bearings for wind turbines in the Johor facility, with our latest equipment and techniques.
We are confident that the state’s commitment for industrial development will help us to deliver great products on schedule to our clients from this world class facility.
In addition to the advantageous physical infrastructure such as ports, electricity and natural gas, we are also eager to tap into the highly talented, culturally diverse local work force,” said Group Chief Executive Officer of Zhejiang Tianma Bearing Group Co. Ltd, Shen Goawei.
With the rise of customisation and personalisation in various industries, there’s a growing demand for bearings tailored to specific application requirements. Manufacturers that embrace these trends and adapt to evolving market dynamics are well-positioned to thrive in the rapidly changing landscape of the bearing industry.
