VIP order
from Malaysia

Visitors from all over the world are almost a daily occurrence at WAS’s headquarters in Emsbüren. Nevertheless, it is always something special to personally guide international partners through our production facilities and show them how our vehicles are built. Some visits remain particularly memorable – such as that of Steven Penafort, Managing Director of First Ambulance Services from Kuala Lumpur.

First Ambulance Services and WAS have known each other for several years now. They first met at international trade fairs, exchanged ideas, got to know one another – and, step by step, developed a trusting working relationship. Steven’s first visit to Emsbüren marked a special milestone in this partnership. Together, they worked on a project that is just as extraordinary for Malaysia as it is for WAS: the development of an ambulance for use in the context of a VIP client.

Technical excellence for high standards

The two new vehicles are based on a Type C ambulance and have been fitted out in accordance with the European standard EN 1789. They are primarily intended to provide medical support during official engagements. The VIP client has now officially taken delivery of the vehicles. They form part of a medical safety concept and are on standby should rapid medical assistance be required during official events or international visits. For Malaysia, this project also represents an important step towards internationally established standards in emergency medical services. The vehicles are fully designed in accordance with EN 1789 and offer medical equipment to an intensive care standard. This includes an electrically operated stretcher system, which facilitates patient transport and reduces the physical strain on medical staff. Externally, too, the ambulances bear a distinctive design. The colour scheme of blue, red and white reflects the traditional colours of the state of Johor. The design is complemented by a golden tiger emblem, symbolising strength and tradition. In this way, the vehicle combines state-of-the-art medical technology with a design that highlights its special role.

International cooperation in the emergency services

The project impressively demonstrates just how valuable international partnerships can be in the development of modern emergency vehicles. Whilst WAS contributed its many years of experience in vehicle manufacturing, First Ambulance Services brought its expertise regarding the requirements and procedures of the emergency medical services in Malaysia. The company was founded in 1997 and is now one of the country’s established private emergency medical service providers. As well as patient transport, the team supports hospitals, provides cover for major events and organises medical transport throughout the country. Furthermore, First Ambulance Services coordinates control centre and

triage processes in collaboration with partners from the healthcare sector. Building a VIP ambulance is, of course, not part of WAS’s day-to-day business either. Projects of this kind require trust, openness and a good mutual understanding right from the start. Florian Degenhardt, who is responsible for international sales at WAS, puts it this way:

 

“When we look each other in the eye, there has to be a spark.”

 

In this case, there was a spark. The result is a vehicle that combines technical precision with a shared commitment to quality – whilst also demonstrating how international cooperation can provide new impetus for the emergency medical services sector.

This image was generated by AI.

Malaysia

Region: South-East
Asia Area: 330,803 km²
Population: approx. 34.5 million
Official languages: Malay (Bahasa Malaysia), English widely spoken
Capital: Kuala Lumpur (federal territory)
Form of government: Federal constitutional monarchy

Malaysia has been a member of the Commonwealth of Nations since gaining independence from the United Kingdom in 1957. The head of state is the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, who is elected every five years from among the nine traditional rulers of the Malay federal states. In recent years, the country’s healthcare system has developed significantly. Modern clinics, specialised medical centres and internationally aligned standards are continuously improving medical care. Alongside the public healthcare system, the private sector also plays an important role – for example, in innovation, specialised treatments and regional cooperation in the healthcare sector.

Customised ambulances: built for the realities of your operations

Every location presents its own challenges. That’s why, at WAS, we don’t produce off-the-shelf vehicles, but rather bespoke ambulances that are precisely tailored to your requirements, your environment and your operational procedures. Whether in a city, the countryside or on an island – we deliver tailor-made solutions that make all the difference in an emergency.

 

Find out more

Your contact person

Simone Bergmann
Head of Marketing/Communications

[Translate to English:] Simone Bergmann, Head of Marketing, WAS