Local News Archives

Proton Concludes 2024 with Record Sales and Strong Market Presence

Proton has wrapped up 2024 on a high note, achieving total sales of 152,352 units (domestic and export) and securing its position as the second most popular automotive brand in Malaysia for the sixth consecutive year. The year ended with December’s sales reaching 14,601 units, marking a 19.7% month-on-month increase and delivering the second-highest monthly sales for the year. Exports also surged, with 1,131 units shipped to overseas markets, capping off a record-breaking year.

Including 622 units of the smart #1 and #3 sold by its subsidiary PRO-NET, Proton’s total sales for 2024 reached 152,974 units. This success was achieved in a highly competitive market and during a pivotal year when Proton launched its first electric vehicle, the Proton e.MAS 7.

Malaysia’s total industry volume (TIV) hit a new high of 813,521 units, with Proton capturing an 18.7% market share.

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Loke: RTD to Equip Officers with Bodycams to Boost Transparency and Integrity

Transport Minister Anthony Loke has announced that the Road Transport Department (RTD) will begin equipping its enforcement officers with body cameras in 2025. According to Bernama, this initiative aims to enhance transparency, safeguard officers during their duties, and address public concerns about enforcement practices.

The decision was revealed during the Ministry’s 2025 New Year briefing, where Loke explained that the introduction of bodycams aligns with RTD director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli’s commitment to upholding the department’s image, safety, and integrity.

Loke underscored the dual benefits of the technology: “The use of body cameras not only protects the image and integrity of RTD but also safeguards the officers themselves. Sometimes our officers face criticism, humiliation, and various accusations. With the body camera, RTD officers are protected, as any evidence during their enforcement actions can be captured.”

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Toyota Malaysia Launches 2025 GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and Corolla GR Sport

UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd has unveiled three highly anticipated models, the 2025 GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and Corolla GR Sport, during the closing of Toyota Gazoo Racing Season 7. These models, inspired by Toyota Gazoo Racing’s motorsport heritage, aim to redefine performance vehicles in Malaysia. Designed for both thrill-seeking enthusiasts and everyday drivers, they showcase Toyota’s commitment to engineering excellence, style, and versatility.

2025 GR Yaris: Competition-Tuned Craftsmanship for the Road

The 2025 GR Yaris brings rally-inspired engineering to Malaysian roads. Powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged G16E-GTS engine, it delivers 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission for ultimate driver engagement. Its GR-Four all-wheel-drive system, derived from Toyota’s World Rally Championship experience, ensures unmatched control across various terrains.

The GR Yaris features advanced cooling systems, a refined suspension for sharp handling, and aerodynamic upgrades like the Functional MATRIX Ver.2 design. Inside, a driver-focused cockpit boasts a 12.3-inch GR Full TFT meter, ergonomic controls, and race-inspired accents. Available in four colours, including the striking Precious Metal, the GR Yaris starts at RM315,600.

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Volvo Car Malaysia Opens Bookings for Locally Assembled EX30 Electric SUV

Volvo Car Malaysia has officially opened bookings for the locally assembled (CKD) Volvo EX30, following the overwhelming success of its fully imported (CBU) units launched in September 2024. The introduction of the EX30 underscores Volvo’s commitment to offering sustainable, safe, and innovative mobility solutions tailored to the Malaysian market.

The locally assembled Volvo EX30 Model Year 2025 (MY25) will be available in two variants: the Ultra and Ultra Twin Performance. Pricing starts at RM208,888 for the Ultra variant, while the Ultra Twin Performance variant is priced at RM228,888. Customers can choose from three stunning colours: Cloud Blue, Vapour Grey, and Crystal White. The first deliveries are expected in the second week of January 2025, making the EX30 an exciting addition to the growing electric vehicle market in Malaysia.

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Volkswagen Malaysia Adjusts Touareg R-Line Pricing to Boost Appeal

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has announced revised pricing for its flagship SUV, the Touareg R-Line, aiming to make the luxury model more attractive to Malaysian customers. The locally assembled Touareg R-Line is now priced at RM382,690, excluding the Volkswagen Assurance Package (previously priced at RM469,990, inclusive of VAP), reflecting the brand’s commitment to passing operational savings onto consumers amid favourable market conditions.

Performance and Features

The Touareg R-Line is celebrated for its cutting-edge technology, advanced safety features, and commanding design. Under the hood, the SUV boasts a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine that delivers an impressive 340PS and 450Nm of torque, ensuring a dynamic and robust performance for discerning drivers.

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Four Puspakom Staff Under Investigation Following Ops Gempur Surprise Checks

Four employees from the Puspakom Wangsa Maju branch have been questioned by the Road Transport Department (RTD) over allegations that a vehicle was approved despite failing to meet inspection standards. This comes after RTD conducted surprise checks as part of its nationwide Ops Gempur initiative on December 31.

Puspakom Chief Executive Officer Mahmood Razak Bahman clarified the situation at a press conference held at the Shah Alam Puspakom branch. Initially, only two staff members were summoned to provide statements, but RTD later extended the investigation to two more employees from the same branch.

Clarification on Media Reports

Mahmood addressed media reports that incorrectly stated three staff members had been summoned. He explained that a photograph published in the media depicted Puspakom’s central region director accompanying staff during the RTD checks, but the director was not involved in the questioning.

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JPJ Cracks Down on Traffic Offences Nationwide in New Year’s Eve Operations

In a sweeping nationwide effort to enhance road safety, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) inspected over 12,000 vehicles across several states on New Year’s Eve, resulting in significant enforcement actions. The operation, spanning Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor, Pahang, Perak, Penang, and Terengganu, targeted traffic law compliance, especially among motorcyclists, and involved collaborative efforts with agencies like the Immigration Department and National Anti-Drug Agency (AADK).

Kuala Lumpur: 731 Vehicles Penalized, 117 Impounded

In the federal capital, authorities inspected 5,094 vehicles, issuing penalties to 731 for various offences. Among these, 117 vehicles—including 101 motorcycles—were impounded. According to JPJ Kuala Lumpur director Hamidi Adam, the operation, starting at 8 pm, prioritized safety and legal compliance.

Authorities detained 30 foreign drivers from Pakistan, Indonesia, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka during the inspections. Meanwhile, the AADK conducted urine tests on 26 individuals, with three testing positive for methamphetamine or opiate drugs. A separate traffic operation targeting reckless motorcyclists resulted in 38 motorcycles being seized and 92 summonses issued for violations such as driving without a license and improper vehicle modifications.

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Proton e.MAS 7 Receives Overwhelming Response with 2,500 Bookings

The Proton e.MAS 7, Malaysia’s first national electric vehicle (EV), has over 2,500 bookings, reflecting the nation’s growing enthusiasm for sustainable mobility. Announced by PRO-NET, a subsidiary of Proton, the achievement underscores the strong demand for innovative and eco-friendly transportation solutions in Malaysia. The e.MAS 7 marks Proton’s bold entry into the EV market, setting the stage for a transformative shift in the country’s automotive landscape.

Available in two variants—Prime and Premium—the Proton e.MAS 7 delivers impressive performance and range. Equipped with 49.52 kWh and 60.22 kWh battery packs, the EV offers a WLTP range of up to 410 km. It also supports advanced charging capabilities, including 11kW AC charging and DC fast charging of up to 100kW. Priced competitively, the e.MAS 7 starts at RM109,800 for the Prime variant and RM123,800 for the Premium variant. As part of an exclusive launch offer, the first 3,000 customers receive an RM4,000 rebate, reducing the prices to RM105,800 and RM119,800 for the respective variants.

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TM and Perodua Forge Partnership to Drive EV Development and Digital Innovation

Telekom Malaysia (TM) and Perodua have entered a groundbreaking strategic partnership to accelerate electric vehicle (EV) development, digital innovation, and sustainable practices in Malaysia. This collaboration aligns with the objectives of Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), which seeks to establish a high-value and competitive automotive sector.

The partnership was formalised during a signing ceremony between TM’s Group Chief Executive Officer Amar Huzaimi Md. Deris and Perodua’s President and CEO Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, focuses on four key areas: Hyperconnected Network, Advancing Digital Technology, Enriching Customer Experience, and Environmental Sustainability.

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Local Man Files False Report to Claim Insurance for Stolen Luxury Car

A man in his 40s is under investigation for filing a false police report, claiming his luxury car was stolen, in an attempt to secure an insurance payout. The incident occurred in Rembau and was uncovered by the local authorities after thorough inquiries.

According to Superintendent Shaik Abd Kadir Shaik Mohamed, Rembau District Police Chief, the man reported the alleged theft at 3:15 am on Saturday. He claimed he had been robbed by two unknown individuals at approximately 10:30 pm on Friday, who purportedly fled with his Audi and other personal belongings.

The police initially investigated the case under Section 395 of the Penal Code, which pertains to gang robbery. However, inconsistencies in the man’s account during questioning led investigators to conclude that the report was fabricated.

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Local News

Proton Concludes 2024 with Record Sales and Strong Market Presence

Loke: RTD to Equip Officers with Bodycams to Boost Transparency and Integrity

Toyota Malaysia Launches 2025 GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and Corolla GR Sport

Volvo Car Malaysia Opens Bookings for Locally Assembled EX30 Electric SUV

Volkswagen Malaysia Adjusts Touareg R-Line Pricing to Boost Appeal

Four Puspakom Staff Under Investigation Following Ops Gempur Surprise Checks

JPJ Cracks Down on Traffic Offences Nationwide in New Year’s Eve Operations

Proton e.MAS 7 Receives Overwhelming Response with 2,500 Bookings

TM and Perodua Forge Partnership to Drive EV Development and Digital Innovation

Local Man Files False Report to Claim Insurance for Stolen Luxury Car

BYD Sime Motors Partners with Transport Ministry to Drive EV Adoption in Malaysia

Northport Becomes First Port Operator in Malaysia to Deploy Proton e.MAS 7 EVs for Security Patrols

Leapmotor Embarks on 6,000KM ASEAN Expedition to Malaysia with Latest Range Extender Electric Vehicles

Isuzu D-Max Climbs to No. 2 in Malaysia’s Pick-Up Truck Market Amid Diesel Price Surge

Nizra Group Launches MG Nizra Damansara 3S Showroom

GWM Tank 500 Hybrid Set to Make Malaysian Debut as Rugged Premium SUV Under RM350k

Honda Malaysia Opens Bookings for First-Ever All-Electric e:N1, Launch Set for Q2 2025

Chery Malaysia Completes Handover of 50 vehicles to Putra Heights Fire Victims

Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia Launches the Defender V8 Line-Up from RM998k

BMW Malaysia Marks 50 Years of the 3 Series: Launch of the M340i xDrive Edition 50 Jahre

Archive

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Toyota GR86 Yuzu Edition Shines Bright in 2026 Lineup with Exclusive Styling and Upgraded Performance

Kia and Innocean Berlin Launch ‘Soundscapes’ to Redefine the Road Trip Experience

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