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Proton has reported a robust close to the first quarter of 2025, buoyed by a sharp rebound in March sales that saw 13,918 units registered. This marks a 23.9% increase over February’s performance and a 9.6% improvement compared to the same month last year. The figures position Proton’s estimated market share at 19.4%, based on a Total Industry Volume (TIV) of 71,596 units for March.

Over the course of the first three months of 2025, Proton recorded total sales of 35,068 units, securing a market share of 18.9% against a TIV of 184,652 units. The company’s performance has been bolstered by strong demand across its product range, growing export contributions, and the positive reception of its new energy models. Leading this charge is the Proton e.MAS 7, which has quickly become Malaysia’s top-selling electric vehicle within its first quarter on the market.

The brand’s internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles also delivered encouraging results. Notably, the Proton S70 retained its lead in the C-segment sedan category with March sales of 2,125 units, up 77.5% from the previous month, bringing its year-to-date (YTD) total to 4,465 units. The model’s strong showing reflects its appeal to a broad consumer base, combining sporty design, refined performance, and a spacious, technology-laden interior suited for both individuals and families.

The larger X90, Proton’s flagship D-segment SUV, maintained its dominance in its segment with a 73.6% increase in sales over February, delivering 302 units in March and pushing its YTD figure to 679 units. Despite this, the X50 continued to be Proton’s best-selling SUV with 1,858 units sold in March, bringing its quarterly total to 5,117 units.

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In a landmark move set to reshape Malaysia’s automotive landscape, Berjaya Corporation Bhd’s Founder and Advisor, Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Vincent Tan Chee Yioun, joined Mr. Ke Chuandeng, Vice President of Jetour Auto, to officiate the signing of a strategic agreement between Berjaya Assembly Sdn Bhd (a wholly owned subsidiary of Berjaya Assets Bhd) and Jetour Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone, focusing on Completely Knocked Down (CKD) projects and the introduction of Jetour’s next-generation vehicles to the Malaysian market. The agreement is poised to catalyse local assembly operations and position Malaysia as a key hub for Jetour’s expansion across Southeast Asia.

Advancing Industry 4.0 Manufacturing

Central to the partnership is a shared commitment to Industry 4.0 principles, incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and robotics into the manufacturing ecosystem. This integration aims to optimise productivity, boost flexibility, and support Malaysia’s ambitions to become a leader in smart, sustainable automotive manufacturing.

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Jetour Malaysia has officially marked its debut in the country’s competitive automotive landscape with the unveiling of the all-new Dashing SUV, introduced in an elegant launch ceremony at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

The Dashing represents Jetour’s first foray into Malaysia’s SUV segment, embodying a contemporary design philosophy, refined features, and a commitment to delivering high-value mobility solutions tailored to Malaysian preferences.

Crafted as a five-seater SUV with striking proportions, the Dashing features a sleek 3D coupe fastback silhouette measuring 4,590mm in length, 1,900mm in width, and 1,685mm in height, slightly smaller than a Proton X70.

Among the Dashing’s standout exterior highlights are intelligent invisible sensing door handles that extend upon detecting the smart key, enhancing both aerodynamics and aesthetic appeal. Split matrix LED headlamps offer intelligent illumination, automatically activating 100 metres before tunnel entrances, and include adjustable height settings along with follow-me-home functionality. Meanwhile, the ‘Mecha-Eyes’ inspired daytime running lights and checkered flag-themed rear lights reinforce the SUV’s futuristic and sporty styling cues.

The Dashing is equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels designed to provide superior road grip and stability, contributing to assured driving across varying road conditions. Enhancing the open-cabin atmosphere is a panoramic 75-inch sunroof, offering a connection to the outdoors while preserving the comfort expected of a premium SUV.

Inside, Jetour has employed a minimalist yet intelligent approach to cabin design. Customers can choose between two elegant interior colour schemes — off-white or a dual-tone black and red finish. The interior omits the conventional centre rear hump, ensuring optimal comfort even for passengers seated in the middle. The boot space is tailored to accommodate leisure equipment such as camping gear or outdoor BBQ sets, underlining the vehicle’s lifestyle appeal.

A key technological highlight is the intelligent voice command system, which enables control over various functions including climate settings, windows, navigation, and entertainment. The system features position-specific voice recognition, enhancing convenience and interaction.

Comfort and wellness have also been prioritised. The cabin air is filtered through a CN95-level purification system, delivering clean, allergen-free air to all occupants. Higher trim levels benefit from customisable ambient lighting, while dedicated rear air vents ensure consistent temperature control throughout the vehicle.

The electrically powered tailgate is both programmable and equipped with anti-pinch safety features, and connectivity options include wireless smartphone charging, along with seamless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Jetour has embedded a comprehensive suite of safety technologies into the Dashing, including blind spot detection using millimetre wave radar, which becomes active at speeds above 15 km/h. The SUV also features lane change warnings, rear cross traffic alert systems, and door opening warnings to protect occupants from oncoming vehicles.

Under the bonnet, the Dashing is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, producing 156PS and 230Nm of torque. This powertrain delivers responsive urban acceleration and composed highway cruising, catering to everyday driving demands.

The Dashing will be offered in two variants — Comfort and Prime — with the Comfort variant priced at RM109,800, and the Prime variant goes for RM116,800. Both variants will be available in five exterior finishes: Carbon Black, Khaki White, Aurora Green, Phantom Grey, and Hematite Red. These are complemented by dual-tone interior treatments with red accents.

Standard packaging will include five times free service, seven years/150,000km vehicle warranty coverage and 10 years/1,000,000km engine warranty coverage. Additionally, the first 500 customers get a RM2,000 cash rebate.

In preparation for its Malaysian rollout, Jetour has already established more than 30 sales and service outlets across the country, with over 30 additional 3S and 4S centres set to open by the end of 2025. These centres will span both Peninsular and East Malaysia, including key regions such as Selangor, Penang, Johor, Sabah, Sarawak, Melaka, Seremban, and Ipoh. The company has also committed to a nationwide spare parts inventory to ensure dependable after-sales support.

The All-New Jetour Dashing will be available for viewing and purchase at all authorised Jetour showrooms nationwide beginning April 2025, setting the stage for what promises to be a dynamic new chapter in Malaysia’s SUV market.

Bermaz Motor, the exclusive distributor of Mazda vehicles in Malaysia, introduces the highly anticipated Mazda MX-5 35th Anniversary Edition—a tribute to 35 years of driving joy, timeless design, and the spirit of Jinba-Ittai, Mazda’s philosophy of perfect harmony between driver and machine.

Since its global debut in 1989, the Mazda MX-5 has consistently delivered a driver-centric experience, evolving through four generations while staying true to its lightweight, dynamic roots. From the iconic NA to today’s ND series, the MX-5 continues to exemplify pure roadster exhilaration.

In celebration of this legacy, the 35th Anniversary Edition makes its debut in Malaysia in limited numbers. This commemorative model combines heritage-inspired details with modern upgrades in performance, design, and connectivity—making it a collector’s dream.

Mazda’s Kodo: Soul of Motion design language is brought to life in this exclusive edition, particularly through the debut of the Artisan Red Premium exterior. Created using Mazda’s advanced Takuminuri painting technology, this deep and radiant red finish enhances the car’s sculpted lines with a sense of movement, strength, and elegance—even while stationary.

Exclusive to this edition is a 35th Anniversary badge on the rear fender, body-coloured outer mirrors, and striking 17-inch Bright Metallic alloy wheels. Inside, the Sports Tan leather interior features matching dashboard trim, carpeting, and floor mats—all embroidered or embossed with the 35th Anniversary logo. Artisan Red accents on the air-conditioning vents and door panels tie the cabin together for a unified aesthetic.

The 2025 Mazda MX-5 range also sees key design and equipment enhancements. Exterior updates include redesigned LED headlamps with recessed low beams, giving the car a unique “eye-like” expression. A concave rear combination lamp lens evokes an “afterburner” visual effect, while the bumper now features updated reflectors and rear fog lights.

Inside, all variants benefit from a newly designed meter cluster with improved readability and a frameless auto-dimming rearview mirror. A new 8.8-inch infotainment display supports voice recognition, USB-C charging, and a high-definition reverse camera for improved usability and safety.

Under the hood, the 2025 MX-5 RF continues with the spirited Skyactiv-G 2.0L engine, delivering 181hp and 205Nm of torque with a top speed of 200km/h. A key highlight is the addition of DSC-TRACK mode and an Asymmetric Limited Slip Differential (LSD) in the manual variant. These performance technologies provide greater control and improved traction during spirited driving.

Mazda has also refined the Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system to enhance responsiveness, with a 5% reduction in rack friction and improved motor control logic, delivering more natural and linear steering feel.

The 2025 Mazda MX-5 RF is available in several colours, including Deep Crystal Blue, Soul Red Crystal, Machine Gray, Snowflake White Pearl, Jet Black, and the newly added Aero Gray. The 35th Anniversary Edition is exclusively available in Artisan Red Premium. Pricing for the Mazda MX-5 RF (Manual/Auto) starts from RM293,000.00, and the Mazda MX-5 35th Anniversary Edition is priced at RM315,000.00.

All new Mazda models come with a 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty and 5-Year Free Maintenance (including parts, labour, and lubricants, excluding Mazda B50), with a mileage limit of 100,000 km or five years, whichever comes first.

The Mazda MX-5 35th Anniversary Edition will be showcased at the Bermaz Auto Showcase from 10th to 13th April 2025 at the Oval Concourse, 1 Utama Shopping Centre, from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

In conjunction with the launch, an exclusive Mazda MX-5 Photo Contest will also take place from 10th to 13th April at both 1 Utama and Sunway Carnival Mall (Northern Region), offering fans a chance to win exciting Mazda merchandise.

PRO-NET, a subsidiary of national carmaker Proton, has announced a significant milestone for its electric SUV, the Proton e.MAS 7, which recorded 1,853 cumulative deliveries in the first quarter of 2025. With 797 units delivered in March alone, the vehicle is estimated to hold a commanding 30% share of the Malaysian EV market, securing its position as the nation’s top-selling electric vehicle.

According to PRO-NET CEO Zhang Qiang, the achievement reflects the growing trust and enthusiasm among Malaysian consumers for Proton’s electrification journey. He stated that customer confidence in both the e.MAS 7 and the broader EV ecosystem Proton is building have been instrumental to this success. He also acknowledged the role of dealers and partners in establishing a comprehensive support infrastructure for EV adoption, adding that the company is committed to continuous improvement in quality and ownership experience.

Accessible, Feature-Rich, and Designed for Malaysians

The Proton e.MAS 7 has gained traction among Malaysian buyers thanks to its competitive pricing and array of advanced features. Priced from RM105,800 for the Prime variant and RM119,800 for the Premium, the e.MAS 7 offers exceptional value for those seeking sustainable mobility without compromising on comfort or safety.

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The government is considering the adoption of an artificial intelligence (AI)-driven road monitoring system to curb pothole-related accidents, following renewed concerns over road safety and infrastructure maintenance.

According to NST, the proposed system, tabled by road safety expert Professor Dr Law Teik Hua, would incorporate scanning technology, inspection drones, and a public feedback platform via a dedicated mobile app to identify and address road defects more efficiently.

Professor Law said the AI system would use smart algorithms to analyse data, predict high-risk zones, and prioritise repairs based on damage severity. “The collected information would be displayed on a central dashboard accessible to authorities and concessionaires, with automatic alerts to ensure prompt action and greater accountability,” he explained.

The call for urgent reform follows a recent fatal accident in Kuantan, where a motorcyclist lost his life after skidding into a pothole on the Kuantan–Cherok Paloh road. Just weeks earlier, a similar incident in Kluang, Johor, claimed the lives of two school-going siblings.

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Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. has announced the appointment of Mr. Narushi Yazaki as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective April 1, 2025. He succeeds Mr. Hironobu Yoshimura, who has helmed the company for the past three years.

Mr. Yazaki brings over 25 years of global experience within Honda, having held senior leadership roles in Japan, Thailand, and the United States. Prior to his Malaysian posting, he was with the Corporate Administration Operations division at Honda Motor Co., Ltd. in Tokyo.

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Tan Chong Motor Holdings Berhad (TCMH) and Warisan TC  Holdings Berhad (WTCH) jointly provide immediate assistance to residents of Putra Heights who were impacted by the devastating gas pipeline leak fire that took place on 1 April 2025.  The companies are deploying at least 30 units of Nissan, GAC Motor and Renault vehicles under a vehicle loan programme to support affected families, ensuring they maintain essential mobility during this challenging time at no cost for a period of one month. 

This initiative is a collaborative effort between TCMH, WTCH, the Ministry of Transport, the  Selangor State Government and local authorities, all working in close coordination to expedite aid distribution and support the community. 

“It is disheartening to witness the extent of impact and damage to the residents, especially during this festive period. Our hearts go out to them, and we wish for a quick recovery to those who were injured,” said Daniel Ho Wai Ming, Group Chief Executive Officer of TCMH. 

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Proton has announced a comprehensive support initiative for residents affected by the recent gas pipeline fire in Putra Heights, which occurred on the morning of April 1. In response to the devastating incident, the national automaker has pledged RM250,000 in financial assistance to help alleviate the burden faced by the victims.

This initiative follows the government’s announcement of financial aid for affected residents. Recognizing the immediate needs of those displaced, Proton’s financial support extends to individuals housed in temporary evacuation centres (PPS), including Dewan Masjid Putra Heights and the Subang Jaya City Council’s multi-purpose hall, Dewan Camelia. The company hopes its contribution will supplement existing relief efforts, especially as many affected residents have voiced concerns that current aid is insufficient.

The fire, which was triggered by a gas pipeline rupture, engulfed a 500-meter stretch and caused extensive damage to 235 premises, including 87 homes that were completely destroyed and 148 others that sustained significant damage. The disaster also impacted 399 vehicles, with 225 suffering direct fire damage and another 174 affected by extreme heat, according to reports citing Subang Jaya police chief Assistant Commissioner Wan Azlan Wan Mamat.

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Porsche Malaysia, represented by Sime Darby Auto Performance, has announced the availability of the latest generation of the 911 sports car in Malaysia. The Porsche 911 Carrera and the Carrera 4 GTS can now be ordered, with prices starting from RM1,430,000.

Innovative Performance Hybrid for the 911 Carrera 4 GTS

The new 911 Carrera 4 GTS becomes the first street-legal 911 to feature a lightweight performance hybrid powertrain. The newly developed 3.6-litre system significantly enhances driving performance, allowing the model to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.0 seconds and achieve a top speed of 312 km/h. Meanwhile, the 911 Carrera retains its 3.0-litre twin-turbo boxer engine, now upgraded for greater power and efficiency.

Porsche engineers drew inspiration from motorsport to develop the T-Hybrid system for the Carrera 4 GTS. A newly designed electric exhaust gas turbocharger, equipped with an integrated electric motor, instantly boosts the turbocharger’s speed, ensuring immediate power delivery. The turbocharger also functions as a generator, generating up to 15PS of electric power from exhaust gases. Unlike previous models, which relied on two turbochargers, this new system operates efficiently with just one, providing a more dynamic and responsive experience.

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