Five Petroleum also aims to establish RV-ready sites at its stations, as well as develop RV parks in future.
With Malaysians having been more amenable to cuti-cuti Malaysia ever since the coronavirus pandemic (not to mention too our rather weak currency), the thought of potentially owning a camper van or caravan over here has not become as absurd (for some at least) as it once was.
In fact, it has been predicted by industry experts for there to be a minimum 20% increase in campervan and caravan ownership and usage within the ASEAN region over the next five years. And so likely in an attempt to capitalise on this future opportunity therefore, Five Petroleum Malaysia has since announced its imminent plans to potentially bring in a German firm to commence local-assembly of its recreational vehicles (RVs) over here.
This rather ambitious goal of Five Petroleum Malaysia comes after the fuel supplier, together with Asia RV and Tapio Management, successfully established a groundbreaking partnership with renowned German caravan and campervan manufacturer Knaus Tabbert during a trade mission in Germany. This in turn came following a six-day working visit to Malaysia’s largest trading partner among European Union member countries, led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and several Cabinet Ministers towards fostering strategic collaboration and economic growth.
Five Petroleum chief executive officer Datuk Seri Dr King Lim Chin Fui said of this partnership to be one that positions the company at the forefront of a revolution in RV travel across Southeast Asia, fostering economic growth and promoting eco-friendly adventures. “This collaboration redefines high-technology, eco-friendly RV travel, emphasising journeys that promote adventure and conscious exploration,” he added.
Lim further stated that this recently-signed partnership with the German RV maker also aligned with Five Petroleum’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and that the partnership paves the way for a new era in eco-friendly camping experiences. “These campervans will be equipped with cutting-edge technology, seamlessly integrate with Five Petroleum’s extensive network of stations offering diesel exhaust fluid (DEF), a high-quality AUS 32 solution,” he elaborated Five Petroleum is the first petrol retail company in Malaysia to introduce DEF in Malaysia.
To complement its potential partnership in the local-assembly of RVs, Five Petroleum has plans to also introduce RV-ready sites at its stations nationwide.
“These designated areas will offer a pit stop for RVs, allowing travellers to refresh, refill their tanks with high-quality fuel, and recharge (applicable to fully-electric models). This initiative demonstrates our dedication to enhancing the RV travel experience and supporting the burgeoning RV community in Southeast Asia,” Lim said, adding that the collaboration extends beyond economic benefits.
Furthering to its RV-ready pit stops too, Five Petroleum chief marketing officer Joshua Ng has indicated as well for the company to actively identify suitable locations for the development of RV parks. Ng stated that establishing a network of safe and secure RV parks will provide much-needed amenities for travellers, further promoting responsible tourism and encouraging exploration, not only in Malaysia but across Asean and Asia Pacific regions.
“This partnership brings together industry leaders, promoting responsible tourism and environmental consciousness. It’s a win-win for travellers and the environment,” he said. This surge will generate substantial additional revenue streams through campsite development, maintenance services, rentals and accessory sales, creating significant economic opportunities throughout the region.
Five Petroleum and their partner from Germany are currently committed to fostering long-term knowledge exchange and up-skilling the Malaysian workforce, Lim reiterated. “Our partnership has the potential to introduce advanced RV manufacturing technologies and knowledge to Malaysian vocational schools, enhancing training quality and preparing graduates for future job opportunities in the flourishing RV industry.”
