KUALA LUMPUR – Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (Emos), which officially began its new operation as the official distributor of Kawasaki motorcycles in Malaysia last Friday, is expected to unveil the Japanese company’s new bike models and launch new showrooms in phases.
The distributing arm for the national motorcycles manufacturer Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (Modenas) took over the distribution of Kawasaki which was previously under KMSB Motors Sdn Bhd after a six-month transition period that ended on March 31.
Modenas chief executive officer Roslan Roskan said the Emos team had observed, learned and adapted the business operations of its new technical partner Kawasaki Motors Ltd (KMC) during the transition period to ensure proper transfer of knowledge and also understanding of the legacy.
The completion of the transition period will also see Modenas begin assembling selected Kawasaki models and simultaneously import models with bigger engines to cater to the wider market, he said.
“Owners of Kawasaki motorcycles can be rest assured that under the new management the superior levels of the products and customer service they are used to will be retained.
“In fact, Modenas will also be introducing the latest models from the Kawasaki line-up and unveiling its new exclusive showrooms in stages,” he said in a statement.
Roslan added that KMC now owns 30% equity in Modenas, with DRB-Hicom Bhd as the majority shareholder. The arrangement also sees the appointment of Yusaku Kashiwagi as the chief marketing officer of Modenas.
With the significant stake, Kawasaki will now actively participate in the operations at Modenas instead of merely being a shareholder.
As the exclusive distributor, Emos via its dealers will not only be distributing the Kawasaki motorcycles but will also distribute spare parts and accessories in Malaysia, he added.
“Emos will also be providing customer service that covers all technical and recall related matters.
“Together with our experienced members from KMC, we are all hands on deck in reviving the Kawasaki brand in Malaysia where it has more than 30 years of history,” he said.
For the record, both Modenas and Kawasaki have had working relations since their partnership in producing the iconic Modenas Kriss motorcycle in 1996. – The Vibes, April 3, 2022
