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The government has committed RM1.9 billion to enhancing public transportation by acquiring new diesel and electric buses for the Klang Valley and Penang. The initiative aims to modernise the existing fleet and improve connectivity for commuters.

According to NST, Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan announced that the first batch of 310 diesel buses will be delivered in June, followed by 250 electric buses by the end of the year. Additionally, a further 1,100 electric buses, along with their charging infrastructure, will be introduced in phases.

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The government has announced a 50% discount on toll charges for two days in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri. The discount will be in effect from 12:01 am on Friday until 11:59 pm the following day, benefiting motorists traveling during the festive period.

Works Minister Alexander Nanta Linggi stated that the initiative will cost the government approximately RM19.69 million in compensation to toll concessionaires. The discount applies exclusively to Class 1 private vehicles and does not extend to toll plazas at the country’s borders, specifically the Sultan Iskandar Building and Tanjung Kupang toll plazas.

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Jaecoo Malaysia is reinforcing its presence as a challenger SUV brand with the preview of the Jaecoo J8, the fourth model to join its expanding portfolio. The J8, a premium off-road SUV, is designed to offer a combination of style, luxury, and high-performance capabilities tailored for the Malaysian market.

Power and Performance

The Jaecoo J8 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection inline-four engine, producing 246hp and 385Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and features twin exhaust pipes, delivering enhanced efficiency and performance. 

Variants and Capabilities

The J8 will be available in two variants: the Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) model configured as a five-seater and the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) model, which offers a six-seater layout. Designed to handle both urban and off-road environments, the J8 AWD variant is equipped with Jaecoo’s Continuous Damping Control (CDC) technology for enhanced suspension performance. Additionally, it boasts a 450mm wading depth, making it well-suited for rugged terrains.

Interior and Features

The Jaecoo J8 offers a spacious and luxurious interior with advanced technological features. The 2WD model provides a boot capacity of 738 liters, while the AWD variant offers 200 liters. Both variants come equipped with a 12.3-inch media display and a 540-degree panoramic camera, along with variant-specific premium features.

The J8 2WD is fitted with a 12-speaker Sony sound system, six airbags, ambient lighting, and faux leather upholstery. Meanwhile, the AWD variant upgrades to a 14-speaker Sony sound system with headrest speakers, 10 airbags, power doors, and an automatic fragrance system.

Advanced Technology and Comfort

The SUV incorporates NFC (Near Field Communication) technology for seamless keyless entry. The driver’s seat is ventilated, ensuring greater comfort during long drives. Additionally, driver visibility and safety are enhanced with a built-in digital video recorder (DVR) and auto-park capabilities. To further elevate passenger comfort, both the front and second-row seats in the J8 are electronically adjustable with massage functionality and curtain shades. The AWD variant also features genuine leather upholstery and suede panel trimmings for a more refined experience.

Pricing and Availability

The Jaecoo J8 2WD is estimated to be priced around RM195,000, while the AWD six-seater variant is expected to be available at approximately RM220,000. The 2WD model is offered in single-tone colour options, including Carbon Crystal Black, Khaki White, and Olive Grey, while the AWD variant features dual-tone versions of the same colours.

Jaecoo J8 Preview Roadshow

Jaecoo Malaysia is showcasing its latest technology, including its Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle (PHEV) advancements, at the Jaecoo J8 Preview Roadshow. The event, held from 27 March to 31 March at the 1Utama Shopping Centre (GF Luxe), allows visitors to explore the J8 firsthand. Following this, the roadshow will move to Queensbay Mall in Penang from 9 April to 13 April and later appear at the Malaysian Autoshow from 8 May to 15 May. Interested buyers can register their interest at these events.

With the introduction of the Jaecoo J8, the brand continues to solidify its position in Malaysia’s competitive SUV market, offering consumers a sophisticated blend of off-road capability and premium comfort.

Nearly 7,000 police officers will be deployed for Ops Selamat 24, an operation focused on ensuring road safety during the upcoming Hari Raya festive season. Authorities will prioritise accident-prone areas along major highways, where an influx of vehicles is expected.

Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director, Comm Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, confirmed that 6,957 traffic personnel have been assigned to the operation, which will run from March 29 to April 3. Special attention will be given to 25 hotspots and 46 black spots identified along major highways. Additionally, 407 hotspots and 76 black spots have been located on federal and municipal roads nationwide, all of which will be closely monitored to enhance traffic safety.

An estimated 2.2 million vehicles are expected on highways throughout the festive period. In response, continuous surveillance will be carried out to provide assistance to motorists in cases of emergencies.

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Proton’s International Sales Division (ISD) has officially entered Nepal’s rapidly expanding electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of the Proton e.MAS 7. This strategic move capitalizes on Nepal’s EV sector, which has experienced a remarkable nine-fold growth in recent years. The launch builds upon the model’s strong performance in Malaysia since its debut on December 16, 2023, and serves as a stepping stone for Proton’s broader international expansion strategy.

Official Launch Event

The launch event, held at the Regency Ballroom of the Hotel Hyatt Boudha in Kathmandu, was attended by key representatives from Malaysia and Proton. Notable attendees included Mohammad Firdaus Azman, Chargé d’Affaires of Malaysia in Nepal; Dr. Li Chunrong, CEO of Proton; Zhang Qiang, CEO of PRO-NET; and Edmund Lim Meng Thong, Director of International Sales. Proton’s official distributor in Nepal, Jagdamba Motors Pvt. Ltd., was represented by its leadership, including Chairman Shanker Lal Agrawal, Executive Director Akhil Gupta, Managing Director Sahli Agrawal, and Senior Vice President Raju Bhetwaal.

Dealer Network and Charging Infrastructure Expansion

Proton’s expansion strategy in Nepal includes a growing dealer network and charging infrastructure development. Currently, three dealers are operational, with plans to establish 12 dealerships nationwide by the end of 2025. Jagdamba Motors Pvt. Ltd. is actively working to enhance Nepal’s EV ecosystem by investing in charging stations and service centres, aiming to alleviate consumer concerns about EV adoption.

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Proton premiered the latest instalment of its Hari Raya short film series at a special buka puasa event, marking the second consecutive year of collaboration with Elite Definition Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of Little Joe Air Freshener in Malaysia.

The 2025 edition features the Proton e.MAS 7, the brand’s latest C-segment electric SUV, showcases its standout features that have made it Malaysia’s best-selling EV for the first two months of the year. With a runtime of nearly 27 minutes, the film explores themes of family, forgiveness, and communication—core elements of Hari Raya traditions. Directed by Pekin Ibrahim, the production stars Que Haidar, Azwan Ali, and Fatimah Abu Bakar, bringing an emotional narrative to life.

Proton’s Deputy Chief Executive Officer Roslan Abdullah highlighted the success of last year’s Hari Raya short film, which garnered 5.2 million views across social media. Encouraged by the overwhelming response, the company decided to produce another film that integrates cultural values with the introduction of its first electric vehicle, the Proton e.MAS 7.

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ASEAN member states are working towards the introduction of a standardised electric vehicle (EV) policy to accelerate the region’s transition to clean energy and enhance sustainability efforts. The initiative focuses on addressing key challenges such as battery standardisation and the development of a cross-border EV charging infrastructure.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz stated that discussions on these measures have already begun among senior officials and national leaders. The policy aims to mitigate range anxiety for EV users while fostering a resilient and interconnected regional supply chain in the automotive sector. The timeline and framework for the initiative are expected to be finalised and officially announced at the upcoming ASEAN Summit in May.

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The Malaysian automotive industry recorded a sharp rebound in February 2025, with total industry volume (TIV) rising 31% to 63,906 units from 48,732 units in January, according to the latest report from the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).

In a statement, MAA attributed the strong recovery to market stability following a sluggish start to the year. “The increase reflects a positive recovery in the automotive industry after a period of slower sales at the beginning of the year,” the association said.

Despite the month-on-month growth, February’s TIV was down 2% year-on-year compared to the 65,017 units recorded in the same month last year. Passenger vehicles accounted for 58,606 units, while commercial vehicle sales reached 2,939 units.

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Kelantan is set to experience a massive influx of vehicles as an estimated two million cars are expected to enter the state during the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations, according to the Road Transport Department (RTD).

Kelantan RTD director Mohd Misuari Abdullah stated that the surge in traffic will primarily flow through three major entry points: Pasir Puteh, Gua Musang, and Jeli. Congestion is anticipated to begin on March 28 as travellers make their way home for the festivities.

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Jaecoo Malaysia has officially commenced deliveries of the J7 PHEV Premium SUV to dealerships nationwide, fulfilling its commitment to customers within just three weeks of the model’s launch. The timely arrival of the first batch ensures that Jaecoo meets its promise of delivering the J7 PHEV within the first quarter of the year, marking a significant milestone for the brand in the Malaysian automotive market.

The Vice President of Jaecoo Malaysia, Emily Lek, emphasised the importance of this achievement, stating that the nationwide arrival of the J7 PHEV highlights Jaecoo’s dedication to its customers. She expressed confidence that Malaysians would appreciate the innovation and sophistication embodied in the J7 PHEV. According to Lek, the vehicle’s Super Hybrid System (SHS) represents a breakthrough in hybrid technology, delivering exceptional performance while redefining the hybrid vehicle landscape in Malaysia. She further asserted that the J7 PHEV would pave the way for dynamic growth and increased competition within the segment.

Positioned as a new benchmark in the premium SUV category, the J7 PHEV (2WD) is available at a competitive price of RM158,800. Jaecoo Malaysia has also introduced an extensive warranty package, offering a seven-year vehicle warranty or up to 150,000km mileage. Additionally, the battery, power motor, and power motor controller unit are covered under an eight-year warranty or up to 160,000km mileage. Notably, the brand assures a one-to-one battery exchange if the State of Health (SOH) drops below 70% within the warranty period. However, customers are advised that terms and conditions apply.

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