For many Malaysians, a motorcycle is more than a way to get from one place to another. It is the ride to work before sunrise, the journey home after a long shift, and the freedom to move through life without waiting for the next bus. For three decades, MODENAS has been part of these everyday journeys, building a Malaysian motorcycle brand around the needs of ordinary riders while steadily expanding its ambitions.
From a National Ambition to a Familiar Name
Established in 1995, Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS) was founded on an ambitious idea: Malaysia could develop its own motorcycle manufacturing capabilities. The company introduced its first motorcycle, the Kriss 110, in 1996, marking the beginning of a journey that would see the model become one of its most recognisable names.
The Kriss arrived when affordable, practical transport mattered to countless Malaysians. Its appeal rested on a simple proposition: a motorcycle didn’t need to be extravagant to make a meaningful difference to everyday life. It needed to be dependable, accessible and suited to local riding conditions.
That philosophy helped establish MODENAS in the national consciousness. Over the years, the company broadened its range beyond commuter motorcycles, developing products for different riding preferences and budgets.
A significant chapter in this evolution was its partnership with Japan’s Kawasaki, which strengthened its connection to international engineering and expanded its position in the motorcycle market. Even as the brand moved into larger-capacity motorcycles and more performance-oriented segments, its Malaysian identity remained an important part of its story.
MODENAS’s journey reflects a wider ambition: to build more than motorcycles assembled for the local market, but a homegrown automotive name capable of evolving with its riders.
The Road Ahead: MODENAS Motorcycles to Consider in 2026
Today’s riders have different priorities. Some want an economical motorcycle for daily commuting, while others look for the comfort of a scooter or the excitement of a sportier machine. MODENAS’s current line-up reflects this variety, with options spanning entry-level motorcycles, urban scooters and performance-oriented models.
Here are five models worth exploring in 2026:
- MODENAS Kriss 110 – approximately RM4,599–RM4,998: A familiar choice for riders seeking straightforward, practical everyday transport.
- MODENAS Kriss 125 FI – approximately RM5,620: A step up in engine capacity for those who prefer a compact commuter motorcycle.
- MODENAS ELIT 150S – RM7,877: An urban scooter with contemporary styling, suited to riders who favour convenience and a more relaxed riding experience.
- MODENAS Z15GT – RM8,288: A sportier option for riders seeking a more distinctive look. In September 2026, MODENAS introduced updated colours and graphics alongside product improvements.
- MODENAS Dominar D400 – approximately RM13,997: A larger-capacity motorcycle for riders looking beyond short daily commutes towards longer journeys.
Prices are indicative Malaysian market prices reported in 2026 and may vary by dealer, location and variant. Registration, insurance and other charges may apply.
These choices illustrate how the brand has grown alongside its audience. The motorcycle that suits a student travelling to college may differ considerably from the one preferred by a professional commuting across town or an enthusiast planning a weekend ride. Offering different options allows MODENAS to meet riders at different stages of their journeys.
Ultimately, the story of MODENAS is not simply about engines, specifications or price tags. It is about understanding what mobility means to Malaysians and making that mobility accessible to more people. As MODENAS continues to build on a distinctly Malaysian foundation, the road ahead may demand fresh technology, changing designs and greater ambition, but its original purpose remains relevant: helping people get where they need to go, one journey at a time.
For everyday riders, a motorcycle is more than a means of transport. It is part of the daily journey to work, family commitments and countless destinations in between. MODENAS highlights the role of a Malaysian brand in serving these practical needs through its motorcycle offerings. The Top Quality Brand Awards (TQBA) honours brands that prioritise consumer needs, product quality and lasting value. Know a brand that Malaysians can count on? Nominate it for TQBA.
