PENANG’s position as a key growth corridor received another boost with the official opening of the Prima Pearl Auto Sdn Bhd Toyota 4S Centre in Bayan Lepas today, marking a significant milestone for both the state’s automotive sector and local economic development.
State Local Government, Town and Country Planning Committee chairman Jason H’ng Mooi Lye, who officiated the opening, said the establishment of the integrated 4S facility reflected strong investor confidence in Penang’s long-term growth prospects.
“Bayan Lepas is not just another township. It is a key growth corridor for Penang, home to high-value industries, advanced manufacturing and a highly skilled workforce,” he said, adding that the decision to locate the Toyota 4S Centre here underscored confidence in the state’s market and future potential.
The new centre offers fully integrated automotive services under one roof, including sales, servicing, spare parts, as well as body and paint repair. Notably, it is the first Toyota outlet on Penang Island to provide in-house body and paint services.
According to H’ng, the centre will deliver tangible benefits to the local community through the creation of quality employment opportunities, enhancement of workforce skills and improved access to comprehensive automotive services.
“I am confident that the presence of this Toyota 4S Centre will further enhance Bayan Lepas as a major commercial and industrial hub, supporting our broader agenda of driving sustainable economic growth and long-term prosperity for the community,” he said.
Tracing the company’s journey, H’ng noted that Prima Pearl Auto Sdn Bhd began operations in 2004 as an authorised Toyota dealer, opening its first 1S showroom in Bayan Baru the following year before expanding with a 2S service centre in Sungai Ara in 2008.
“Today, we witness another significant chapter in Prima Pearl Auto’s steady growth with the opening of this 4S Centre in Bayan Lepas, offering sales, aftersales and body and paint services under one roof,” he added.
Meanwhile, Prima Pearl Auto Sdn Bhd managing director Ooi Choon Lim described the opening as the realisation of a long-held dream that began decades ago.
“This dealership represents not just a new building, but the continuation of a journey that began many years ago,” he said, recounting how he started in the used car business in the mid-1980s with the support of his late father.
Ooi said the Asian Financial Crisis in 1997 tested the company’s resilience but did not diminish his aspiration to become a Toyota dealer, a dream that materialised in 2004 when UMW Toyota Motor opened applications for nationwide dealerships.
“‘Pearl’ represents Penang, the Pearl of the Orient, while ‘Prima’ reflects excellence and quality, values we strive to uphold every day,” he said, explaining the inspiration behind the company’s name.
He added that the new 4S facility symbolises a shared commitment with Toyota to deliver an ever-better ownership experience, guided by “The Toyota Way” principles of product, people and process excellence.
“Designed with our customers in mind, this facility is a place where we want everyone to feel welcomed, valued and at home,” he said.
Ooi also expressed appreciation to UMW Toyota Motor, his team and family for their continued support, while inviting the public to tour the new facility and explore the latest Toyota models on display.
Also present were UMW Toyota Motor deputy chairman Takashi Obata and president Datuk K. Ravindran.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En