For the first time, the Asia Automotive Award (AAA) moved its ceremony outside of Malaysia, choosing Bangkok, Thailand, as the stage for its fifth edition. Organized by AsiaAuto Venture Sdn Bhd (MOTONATION) and hosted by Grand Prix International Public Company Limited, the move signals a strategic shift toward deeper regional integration within the Asian mobility ecosystem.

Under the theme “Driving the Future of Asia Automotive Business Together,” the event gathered a diverse group of stakeholders, including OEMs, parts suppliers, and aftermarket giants from 12 countries, including the Philippines, Japan, South Korea, China, and Vietnam.

A distinguished panel of judges from across Asia, which included AutoIndustriya.com CEO and co-founder Brent Co, carefully evaluated submissions for the 5th Asia Automotive Award.

The gala, held at the Centara Grand CentralPlaza Ladprao, was attended by the region's top automotive brass and graced by Guest of Honor Mr. Supakit Boonsiri, Director General of the Office of Industrial Economics.

The 2025 edition saw a record-breaking 250 submissions across 11 categories, ranging from sustainability and innovation to motorsports and marketing. After a rigorous screening process by an international panel of experts, 150 entries were shortlisted for the final interview stage, making this one of the most competitive years for the AAA to date.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Automotive Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes visionary leadership that has shaped the industry. This year’s recipients were: Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, the 4th and 7th Prime Minister of Malaysia, credited with the birth of the Malaysian national car project; and Dr. Prachin Eamlumnow, president and CEO of Grand Prix International PLC, a titan of the Thai automotive media and exhibition landscape.

Dr. Por Boon Kuan, Chairman of the AAA – Thailand Chapter, noted that expanding the awards beyond Malaysian borders is a testament to the growing need for a unified Asian automotive voice.

“The Thailand chapter represents an important step in strengthening regional integration and providing greater international exposure for Asian automotive businesses,” Dr. Por stated.

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Anothai Eamlumnow, COO of Grand Prix International and Vice President of the event, emphasized that the awards catalyze innovation and sustainability. He noted that hosting the event in Bangkok reinforces Thailand's position as a central hub for regional automotive cooperation.

The event was supported by lead sponsor CNC Innovation Sdn Bhd, highlighting the role of technological partnerships in the current shift toward sustainable mobility.

As the 5th Asia Automotive Award concludes, it sets a new precedent for the ceremony to rotate across the continent, further solidifying its status as a benchmark for excellence in the Asian automotive landscape.