Petronas CEO announces more investments in Weifang

Khalil Muri, CEO of Petronas Lubricants International, has confirmed the company's commitment to expanding investment in Weifang during a meeting with Weifang's Party secretary Liu Yun on Jan 19. Muri outlined plans to bring in more high-quality projects and strengthen industry and supply chain collaborations, further solidifying the strong partnership between Petronas and the city.

The meeting represents a significant milestone in a relationship that began in 2010 when Petronas first entered Weifang by acquiring local lubricant company St. Malie. Over the past 16 years, this Malaysian energy giant has consistently invested in the region, with its China headquarters now in the city.

Today, Petronas' Weifang facility stands as one of the company's most advanced smart plants globally. Using advanced technologies, such as CoolTech friction protection, the plant produces high-performance lubricants for heavy-duty applications.

These products serve essential local sectors, including agricultural machinery and construction equipment. Additionally, the facility's output has received prestigious certifications from global automotive leaders like Mercedes-AMG, reinforcing its status for world-class quality and technical excellence.

Beyond industrial output, Petronas is a key contributor to Weifang's green development goals. In 2025, the company began a photovoltaic project at its Weifang plant, enabling it to source more than 65 percent of its energy from green sources. This shift directly supports China's national "dual carbon" goals and highlights Weifang's growing status as a center for eco-friendly, high-tech manufacturing.

Looking ahead, the expanded investment from Petronas is expected to drive Weifang's goal of becoming a trillion-yuan ($143.4 billion) economy. By deepening industrial integration and fostering technological exchange, the partnership not only boosts regional prosperity but also strengthens the broader economic ties between China and Malaysia.