The Indonesian industry association ‘NMAA’ participated in the Osaka Auto Messe 2024

One unique Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution IX was spotted at the Osaka Auto Messe (OAM) 2024. It was a mix of parts made in Japan but not seen in the Japanese aftermarket, and wore a unique pattern of vinyl graphics. What is NMAA?　And what is the present and future of the Indonesian custom scene?　We introduce the NMAA with a talk by its representative, Andre Mulyadi.

OAM as seen by the representative who also organizes custom car events in Indonesia

NMAA (National Modificator & Aftermarket Association) is Indonesia’s largest custom and tuning industry association, established in 2016 to foster a healthy customization culture, with afterparts manufacturers and other members. Since 2018, it has also organized a custom car event called IMX (Indonesia Modification & Lifestyle Expo). Indonesia’s custom scene has grown rapidly over the past few years, and the NMAA is probably the main reason for this.

A cooperative relationship exists between the NMAA and the Osaka Auto Messe, and this is the fifth time the NMAA has exhibited at the show. Representative Andre says that when he came to Osaka Auto Messe seven years ago, he was met with many surprises.

“First of all, I was surprised that so many people came to a custom car event. It was shocking to see visitors queuing up and waiting for the doors to open. It was also impactful to see the wide range of age groups, from children to the elderly. In Indonesia, custom cars are very popular among the pinpoint age group of 15 to 30 years old, so I think that if more generations enjoy custom cars in Indonesia as they do in Japan, the industry will flourish even more.”

“We want to learn from Japanese technology and develop excellent Indonesian tuners”

As seen in the IMX event scene, Indonesian custom cars are of high quality as show cars, and more and more parts are made in Indonesia. However, many Indonesian customizers enjoy the appearance of their cars, and in terms of tuning and performance enhancement, Andre says that Japanese customization is still more advanced.

“In Indonesia, customization is mainly for show-up, with an emphasis on appearance, and customization in terms of functionality, such as engine tuning, is not yet as good as in Japan. Of course, we have parts, but we also have a strong desire to learn from Japanese technology and develop excellent Indonesian tuners.”

Currently in Indonesia, customization of diesel SUVs such as the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Toyota Fortuner, which are popular models in the country, is popular. This is probably due in large part to the fact that people want to enjoy appearance-oriented customization with the vehicles they have at hand.