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Prasarana Malaysia Bhd (Prasarana) has launched the ‘OKU Smile’ subscription pass, allowing persons with disabilities to benefit from free fare incentives on Prasarana’s rail and bus services starting February 1. The initiative, following the announcement by Transport Minister Anthony Loke on December 21, extends the free fare incentive to all rail and bus services operated by Prasarana.

Existing Prasarana OKU concession cardholders and new applicants can avail themselves of the OKU Smile pass, with activation and new applications open from February 1. Cardholders can activate the OKU Smile pass at designated counters at Rapid KL LRT, MRT, Monorail, BRT, and selected bus hubs. A minimum balance of RM5 is required to use the pass.

For expired cards, users must apply for a new card, and the application process can be completed at selected concession registration counters for Rapid KL. In Penang and Pahang, applications can be submitted at specified locations. Online applications for concession cards are also available through the website www.myrapid.com.my.

Prasarana aims to facilitate convenient and accessible transportation for persons with disabilities through this initiative, enhancing their mobility and promoting inclusivity.

Melaka Chief Minister Ab Rauf Yusoh inaugurated the newly built driving training and test track at the Melaka Road Transport Department (RTD) Academy. The state-of-the-art 2.02-hectare track, constructed for RM2.5 million, is anticipated to enhance the efficiency and quality of training for driving testers and instructors.

According to Bernama, construction of the track commenced on December 14, 2021, and was successfully completed on July 12, 2022. The modern facility is expected to play a crucial role in nurturing professional driving testers and instructors while serving as a hub for professional driver excellence. Ab Rauf expressed hope that the track would benefit the community, particularly the RTD, and contribute to the development of competent and responsible motorists, ultimately contributing to accident reduction efforts.

The track’s development aligns with the goal of elevating competence capacity and standards within the road transport industry. It is envisioned to become a centre for providing training to driving testers and instructors nationwide, positioning Melaka as a focal point for professional driver development in the country. The track’s launch ceremony was attended by Deputy Transport Minister Hasbi Habibollah and RTD Director-General Datuk Rosplagos Taha.

In conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year festive celebration, Goodyear Malaysia announced its latest promotion, designed to empower Malaysians to Drive Towards Prosperity with confidence as they gear up for the festive season. Until 29 February 2024, consumers who purchase 2 pieces of 16” and above consumer tyres will receive RM20 Touch ‘n Go e-Wallet credit, while those purchasing 4 pieces of 16” and above consumer tyres will receive RM50 Touch ‘n Go e-Wallet credit.

Goodyear remains steadfast in their commitment to enhancing the driving experience, ensuring safety and confidence for all drivers. This promotion reflects Goodyear’s commitment to providing superior products and experiences. To participate, customers can follow these simple steps:

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As the Chinese New Year festivities approach, GWM Malaysia, a global smart technology company, has announced an exclusive promotion to celebrate the Year of the Dragon. The promotion offers significant benefits for customers interested in adopting sustainable transportation, specifically for the Ora Good Cat electric vehicles.

During the Chinese New Year campaign, customers can enjoy a substantial rebate of up to RM20,000 for the Ora Good Cat, enhancing affordability and making electric vehicles more accessible. As part of the promotion, GWM Malaysia is also providing a complimentary wall mount charger worth RM5,500 with every purchase of the Ora Good Cat. This charger contributes to a convenient and efficient charging experience, enhancing the overall ownership journey for electric vehicle users.

The initiative aligns with GWM Malaysia’s commitment to making sustainable and futuristic transportation accessible to a wider audience.

The Chinese New Year promotion is valid until 29 February, allowing customers ample time to take advantage of the extraordinary savings and benefits offered. GWM Malaysia encourages individuals to seize this opportunity to embrace sustainability and style with the environmentally friendly Ora Good Cat electric vehicles, making the Chinese New Year celebration unforgettable.

Isuzu’s acclaimed D-Max pick-up truck has set a new sales record in Malaysia, surpassing the company’s previous all-time high. In 2023, sales reached 9,650 units, exceeding the 2022 record of 9,211 units by a significant 439 units. This achievement solidifies the D-Max’s position as a preferred pick-up truck, showcasing its impressive design and features that have resonated with customers.

The third-generation Isuzu D-Max, introduced in Malaysia in 2021, has consistently garnered high interest, attributed to its features, driving characteristics, versatile operation, and value for money. The model’s popularity has expanded Isuzu’s customer base, with conquest sales increasing by 185%, while retaining a strong core customer base.

The Isuzu D-Max lineup offers eight variants, catering to diverse customer needs, from the hard-working Single Cab to the sophisticated X-Terrain flagship. The 1.9-litre Standard variant, known for its modest engine displacement providing lower road tax and running costs, contributed significantly to sales, representing 28% of the total.

The flagship X-Terrain variant, known for its exceptional finish, sophistication, and impressive on- and off-road performance, has maintained positive momentum in 2023. Despite being a newcomer in the premium pick-up truck segment, the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain has set trends, growing by 24.5% since its launch. It introduced class-leading features, including Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) and a generous 7-year unlimited mileage warranty.

The strong demand for the Isuzu D-Max has propelled the brand to the No.2 position in Sabah, Kedah, and Pahang in the pick-up truck segment, securing the No.3 position nationwide with a 16.6% market share. The model’s success underscores its widespread acceptance and appeal among Malaysian customers.

Ford Malaysia, in collaboration with Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), is set to launch a unique automotive podcast series titled “Ford Malaysia: Built for Life.” This pioneering podcast, available on Spotify starting January 28, 2024, distinguishes itself by transcending traditional automotive narratives, focusing on the human aspect of the Ford Ranger lifestyle.

Unlike conventional content centred on technical specifications, the “Ford Malaysia: Built for Life” podcast adopts an engaging storytelling format. Through heartfelt anecdotes, interviews, and shared experiences, the podcast explores the stories and journeys of Ford Ranger owners and the vibrant Ranger community, showcasing the iconic truck’s role as a companion in work, family, and leisure.

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Sepang International Circuit (SIC) has announced a significant increase in rental rates for the Petronas Sepang International Circuit, effective April 1. The FIA grade one circuit, renowned for hosting events like the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia, will witness rental hikes of up to 45%, emphasising the circuit’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards.

As reported by NST, under the new rate card, weekday day sessions will experience a 27% increase, rising from RM55,000 to RM70,000. Weekend rates for day sessions will see a 32% hike, moving from RM60,500 to RM80,000. Night sessions during weekdays will undergo a 41% increase, from RM55,000 to RM78,000, while weekend night sessions will face the highest surge at 45%, climbing from RM60,500 to RM88,000.

These rates include technical and medical officials, ambulance and fire car services, cleaners, security personnel, and access to relevant facilities. SIC CEO Azhan Shafriman Hanif highlighted that the price adjustment aims to ensure the continued operation of the circuit at the highest standards, supporting ongoing improvements for an enhanced customer experience.

The decision to raise rental rates comes after careful consideration of increasing operational and maintenance costs. SIC emphasises its commitment to facilitating a smooth transition for clients and stakeholders, providing advance notice for transparency and preparation. This adjustment marks the first increase in rental prices since 2013, reflecting the circuit’s dedication to sustaining quality facilities and services in the highly competitive racing environment.

NexV Manufacturing Sdn Bhd, a joint venture between Careplus Group Berhad and GoAuto Group Sdn Bhd, is set to pioneer Malaysia’s first green technology facility dedicated to the manufacture and assembling of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), including electric vehicles (EVs). The groundbreaking ceremony, officiated by Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar YAB Dato’ Seri Haji Aminuddin bin Harun in the Chembong Industrial Area, Rembau, Negeri Sembilan, marks a significant step toward creating employment opportunities and driving investments in the region.

Scheduled to commence operations in Q1 2025, the plant will boast an annual capacity of 30,000 vehicles. A key highlight is the assembly of NETA models through the joint venture between Careplus and Intro Synergy Sdn Bhd, a GoAuto subsidiary. However, the plant won’t be limited to NETA vehicles; it will also offer opportunities for other New Energy Vehicle (NEV) brands interested in Completely Knocked Down (CKD) assembly of passenger and commercial EVs or electric motorcycles.

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Japanese state-owned company, including East Japan Railway Co, have reportedly abandoned their plans to participate in the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High-Speed Rail (HSR) project, citing concerns about financial risks without support from the Malaysian government.

The company had initially intended to use the Japanese Shinkansen bullet train system for the project. This decision is seen as an opportunity for Chinese firms to strengthen their presence in East Asian infrastructure projects, especially after their involvement in completing a high-speed rail project in Indonesia in 2023, with another project ongoing in Thailand.

According to sources, with the Japanese company’s withdrawal, local firms are now considering partnerships with Chinese and European companies to submit bids for the KL-Singapore HSR project. The Request for Information (RFI) process initiated by MyHSR Corporation Sdn Bhd to allow private sector proposals for the HSR project has extended its deadline to January 15, 2024.

The Malaysian government aims to re-implement the project through new financing mechanisms and implementation models to enhance rail transport infrastructure and stimulate the country’s economy.

The KL-Singapore HSR project, initially estimated at approximately RM110 billion, was terminated on January 1, 2021, as both Malaysia and Singapore failed to reach an agreement on proposed changes before the project agreement’s expiration on December 31, 2020. The termination led to Malaysia agreeing to pay SG$102.8 million to Singapore for the costs incurred during the HSR project development and related extension delays.

A video of a frustrated local resident taking matters into his own hands to address potholes in Taman Sentosa, Klang, has gone viral, drawing attention to the ongoing road condition issues in the area. In the 30-second video, the man can be seen painting over a recently tarred section of Jalan Hulubalang, expressing his dissatisfaction with the lack of action from the elected representative.

The video, posted by @NaratifRakyat two days ago on social media platform X, has garnered 264,000 views, sparking supportive comments from netizens praising the man’s initiative. Many residents shared their experiences of motorcyclists falling due to the poor road conditions.

The resident, frustrated with the unaddressed potholes, took it upon himself to use his own funds to fix the road, highlighting the urgency of the matter. In the video, he emphasises that the money used is from the public, not the elected representatives, to prevent any unwarranted claims.

@NaratifRakyat, who uploaded the video, pointed out that despite previous complaints to the local representative, no action was taken to repair the potholed road. The video prompted a discussion on the effectiveness of the local government in addressing residents’ concerns.

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