KUALA LUMPUR – In a statesmanlike gesture, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed appreciation to former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, the founder of national carmaker Proton Holdings Bhd, for the latter’s contributions to the local automotive industry.
Speaking at the launch of the highly anticipated Proton X90 model here today, Anwar acknowledged that the car company has gone through various trials and tribulations since its incorporation in 1983 under Dr Mahathir’s tenure as prime minister.
Stressing that the development of the national car played a crucial role in advancing Malaysia’s position in the global automotive field, Anwar appeared to pay tribute to Dr Mahathir, now 97, for his past accomplishment.
Anwar said that as finance minister, he is excited to see Proton advance further as the company is a key contributor to the nation’s income.
“With RM26 billion (in tax revenues) paid (since its formation), Proton is one of the largest contributors to the nation’s coffers.
“I’m expecting more (taxes) to be paid by Proton in the coming years,” he said during his officiating speech during the event at the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition Centre here.
The Proton X90 is the brand’s first mild hybrid electric vehicle, marking its entry into the new energy vehicle market.
Beginning with a base price of RM123,800 for the standard version of the vehicle, the car boasts an array of intelligent features meant to facilitate a safer and more comfortable ride.
Noting that the automotive industry is a strategic economic sector whose importance should not be underestimated, Anwar pointed to Proton’s partnership with Chinese carmaker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely) as a way of realising the nation’s impact in the field.
“Geely’s participation will be of immense help and impact towards achieving our efforts, (which will) require some very bold measures.
“This is why I previously mentioned that all agencies, state governments, and local councils must be supportive and undertake measures to appear investor-friendly,” he said.
He highlighted the development of the Automotive High-Tech Valley in Tg Malim as Malaysia’s next-generation vehicle hub, which was realised through a cooperation between Geely and Proton parent company, DRB-Hicom.
“The Malaysia Madani era comes hand-in-hand with Proton’s development. The automotive industry has great potential in our country and also in Asean,” Anwar said.
“The unity government would like to thank (Dr Mahathir) for his contributions and role in the (automotive) sector,” Anwar said. – The Vibes, May 7, 2023
